Signs of roof damage aren’t always obvious.
When your car needs repair, the check engine light illuminates on your dashboard, and if the screen on your smartphone breaks, it’s obvious you need a repair. However, when you need a roof repair or replacement, what signs should you watch for?
Roof damage and signs of roof damage are not always easy to identify. There is no check on your roof light to alert you. There is an off chance you might see a roof leak, but in most cases you won’t be able to spot a roof repair.
That is why today, we are going to share with you the simple signs of roof damage, your roof repair options,, and how to perform an annual roof inspection!
How to Spot Signs of Roof Damage
You are the average homeowner, so what should you be mindful of to spot roof damage? Issues with your roof can be extremely obvious, like a tree branch sitting in a hole on your roof, or very subtle, such as an attic leak.
The following list covers most of the early warning signs of possible roof damage. Not all roof problems are visible, which is why we will also explore other options to help prevent roof issues.
1. Look for missing shingles
Perhaps the most obvious sign that you have an issue with your roof is missing shingles. Whether you find shingles in your yard, see them flapping in the wind on your roof, or notice exposed decking, missing shingles are an obvious indicator of damage.
Missing shingles are not something to take lightly, either. Asphalt shingles, in particular, are installed in a woven-like pattern to create an interlocking grid for ultimate protection. This is also why, when one shingle is compromised, the required roof repair typically means more than just one shingle needs to be replaced.
Similarly, the reason you often see a few missing shingles is the grid-like installation process. Either way, be sure to get the missing shingles addressed ASAP. Most roofing companies will come to inspect for free and recommend:
- Temporary tarping of the area
- Shingle replacement (roof repair)
- New roof, depending on the number of missing shingles
Depending on the exact cause, missing shingles may also mean you can file an insurance claim.
See More: Roof Repair Info
2. Wind Damage
All of these houses were hit by a severe windstorm, requiring replacement!
Similar to missing shingles or #3 below—missing flashing—be very mindful of problems for your roof after a heavy windstorm. Newer roofs, and even most older roofs, can withstand most wind conditions. However, there are rare cases when a Nor’easter occurs, resulting in shingle damage and overall roof issues.
Strong gusts of wind can cause severe damage, so be mindful if a substantial event like a hurricane or heavy windstorm hits your area! Luckily in the Boise, ID area, we don’t have to worry about hurricanes 🙂! However, in the Treasure Valley, wind and hail damage are the most common roof storm damage we see. While these don’t usually cause structural damage, they can still affect your roof.
3. Roof Flashing Cracking or Missing
Flashing is the thin black material that is applied to areas that stick out of a roof where they meet your roof’s shingles. Think of a chimney sticking out or where one townhouse roof meets another. In those areas, flashing would be installed to prevent leaks.
In any case, if the flashing is loose or cracked, this is technically a form of roofing damage that will need to be addressed. Almost all roofing leaks typically involve one of the following:
- Missing shingles
- Flashing issues
- Cracked pipe collars
4. Gutters hanging from your home or that are clogged.
Bent, broken, sagging, or missing gutters are a huge issue for your home’s roof!
Gutter issues can affect the performance of your roof. Your home’s roof collects rainwater and directs it to your gutters, where it’s channeled away. That said, gutter damage can lead to roof leaks and roof damage.
A roof is designed to protect your home from water by working synchronously with your home’s gutters. When either (gutters or your home’s roof) is compromised, the other is also impacted negatively.
So keeping your gutters clean, clear, and properly functioning is vital to preventing water damage to your roof!
5. Low spots & soft spots.
While this is not always the case with damaged roof decking, sometimes you can spot low or soft spots from the ground.
Soft spots are a clear sign that there may be damage you need to address. If you stand on the ground and you see a small dip in your roof, you have a few options:
- Take a look inside of your addict with a flashlight and see what you find. If you see a leak, sag, or dark colors on your roof’s decking (plywood), you may have a severe roof leak to address.
- Have a roofing company come inspect your roof for you. Don’t pay for this; simply call a reputable roofing company and tell them you might have a possible leak! We do not recommend ever getting on your roof by yourself, or at all for that matter.
6. Leaks inside your home.
If missing shingles are the most obvious sign of roof damage, the second most obvious sign is stains on the drywall of your ceiling. There is no worse feeling than waking up to find discoloration on your ceiling as the result of a roof leak/rainstorm. While most leaks don’t happen overnight, they do repair themselves, too.
Luckily, in most cases, a roof leak is a quick fix, and if addressed promptly, you can prevent the need for a full roof replacement. Most roof leaks result from missing shingles, cracked/missing flashing, and cracked pipe collars.
If you are in the process of selling or listing your home, a roof leak in the ceiling can prevent the sale. Always be sure to get interior leaks fixed, and remember that any discoloration, sagging drywall, or holes can indicate a problem with your roof.
7. Anything that seems out of place.
A piece of plastic in your yard, a shingle on the ground, or other roofing materials that you mysteriously see lying around could be a sign of roofing damage. While something in your yard could undoubtedly have blown off your neighbor’s roof, it’s always a good idea to keep a vigilant eye on your home’s roof.
Damaged flashing, water trapped between a valley, shingle granules in your gutters, and even mold growth are all signs of an aging or problematic roof. Most roof problems are slow-growing, so catching them early is key!
8. Hail roof damage from bad weather!
Hail damage to roofs occurs in the Treasure Valley more than you might think! Large hail can cause damage that often requires a new roof. Though rare, when a thunderstorm brings large hail, it can damage your roof. Large hail can chip your shingles, resulting in dents and, possibly worse, leaks.
Compromising the structural integrity of a shingle can lead to damage down the road, which is why it is essential to watch for large hailstorms. When they do occur, be sure to keep an eye out for your roof.
Fix Your Roof Leaks ASAP!
Whether you have leaky roof vents or water stains that tell you something isn’t right, you will most likely need a roof repair. You want to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to structural damage. Something as simple as a few cracked shingles can lead to moisture buildup, which can cause leaks to travel to your attic. In cases like this, you will need a professional roofing contractor to conduct an inspection.
After a major storm, if you identify roof damage, be sure to always reach out to Legacy Roofing so we can help you repair or complete a roof replacement. Our solutions include:
- Replacing an area of the roof deck and reshingling
- Replacing damaged shingles from hail or wind
- Inspecting for any destroyed insulation or issues in your attic
- A full roof replacement when the damage reaches a certain amount of money
Unfortunately, even the most well-maintained roof can be damaged by storms. Just a few shingles can lead to further damage, such as rotting wood, water leaks, dark spots, and more. While it is rare, don’t let moisture wreak havoc on your roof.
How to Complete an Annual Roof Inspection
Just like going to the dentist every six months, it isn’t a bad idea to have a visual inspection of your roof every year and a roof inspection by a roofing company completed every few years.
To complete a roof inspection on your own, simply follow these steps:
- Get a pair of binoculars if you have them
- Find vantage points outside where you can view your roof
- Take some photos of your roof from all angles (annually)
- Using these photos, compare them to the past to keep an eye on everything.
- Note missing shingles and get those fixed quickly!
- Lastly, always spot-check your roof after severe storms in Boise.
As we mentioned regarding roof inspections, find a roofing company you can trust and have them come check your roof every few years once it is over 10 years old! If you have any questions, don’t forget to check out our Frequently Asked Roofing Questions article here or reach out to us below!
His crew showed up exactly at 730 as discussed and finished my 38 square roof in one day. They did this even working around a difficult patio cover. His crew even realigned my starlink antenna pretty close to perfect.
Clean up was thorough and complete, my wife even commented that even the flower beds were completly cleaned out.
Payment was only expected at the end when the job was complete! None of this goofy half down nonsense.
For sure make Legacy one of your bids if you are looking for a new roof
The professionalism and responsive care were without flaw. Anytime I had a question I would leave a text or message and I would get prompt responses.
My roof looks beautiful and I got the exact color of roof shingle I wanted.
I would without reservation recommend this company to anyone wanting to get their roof replaced.
The Verdict on Roof Damage Signs –
Severe weather, aging roofs, and rain can negatively impact your shingles or metal roof. While you won’t need to replace your roof often, if the time has come and you are approaching the replacement window, you will actually save money with a full replacement over a temporary fix.
We can help you with your current roof, and when we say call a professional, just reach out below for a free inspection from the most professional roofer in Boise, Nampa, Meridian, and the Treasure Valley!
Frequently Asked Roofing Damage Questions
How do I know when I have roof damage?
The obvious signs, such as missing or damaged shingles, moisture in your home, leaks, water stains, and clogged gutters, are usually strong indicators that you will need to call a roofing company to help you with your home’s roof.
Sometimes you might also see a spike in your energy bills or mold on your roof, which can be signs of issues that need your attention. Mold growth is no good for your roof! Be sure to check your roof after high winds or if you see water running off it!
How do I know when I need a new roof?
When repairs exceed your roof’s insurance deductible, this is usually a good time to consider a new roof. Also, when the damage is severe and repair costs stack up, a new roof can sometimes be cheaper!
How many missing shingles mean I need a repair versus a full replacement?
Because asphalt shingles are installed in an interlocking grid, even one missing shingle usually means more than just that single shingle needs replacing. A roofing company should inspect for free and recommend tarping, a shingle repair, or a full roof replacement depending on how many are missing and where.
What causes most roof leaks?
The large majority of roof leaks trace back to one of three things: missing shingles, cracked or missing flashing, or cracked pipe collars. Catching these early, before you see interior leaks or ceiling stains, usually means a quick, inexpensive fix instead of a full replacement.
How often should I get my roof inspected?
Do a visual check yourself once a year, from the ground with binoculars, and photograph your roof to compare against past years. Once your roof is over 10 years old, have a roofing company do a professional inspection every few years, and always check after a major storm.
Boise Hail & Wind Roof Damage: 8 Tips After The Storm