A strong wind storm can take a toll on your roof. When you know what to look for, you can prevent costly repairs later. The first sign that something has blown on your roof is debris. It includes leaves, branches and other oversized objects.
Damaged Shingles
Your roof keeps you safe from the elements – rain, snow, hail, wind – and protects your home’s structure. As a result, your roof is one of the most essential parts of your house, and you should take good care of it. When you notice your shingles becoming brittle, it could signify that they need replacement. Having your roof checked and replaced by a roof company when it’s time is a great idea, as it can make your home much safer in a storm. If you notice areas of missing granules on your roof, it’s also a sign that it needs to be replaced. Shingle granules help keep your shingle strong and help prevent moisture from forming. Aside from avoiding water damage, these granules provide aesthetic appeal and a barrier to UV rays. If your shingles have lost their granules, you’ll want to replace them soon. Long-term financial savings result from the fact that a well-maintained roof can avert significant damage.
Water Spots on Your Ceiling
Those brown water spots on your ceiling aren’t just an eyesore – they’re a sign of severe damage to your home. The only way to eliminate them is to fix the issue at its root. Identifying the leak’s source is essential to prevent mold and mildew growth inside your home. It is because damp drywall and insulation are particularly friendly to bacteria, which thrive in warm weather and high humidity. If you see a stain on your ceiling near a chimney, attic vent, skylight or dormer, it’s probably coming from a leak in your roof. It is a great reason to check your attic for leaks and other signs of storm damage as soon as possible.
Debris in Your Gutters
During storms, leaves and other debris can get into your gutters. It can lead to clogs that prevent water from flowing away from your home and landscape. It could cause problems like mold growth, sagging gutters, wet basements, or leaky roofs. Gutters need to be cleaned at least twice a year (spring and fall, typically) to remain debris-free. If the debris in your gutters isn’t removed regularly, it can also attract pests to your home. These include birds, squirrels and other critters that can build nests inside or near your gutters. It’s best to have a professional remove these nests to avoid them damming your entire gutter system and causing damage to your yard or your home. Some local contractors can even lay a tarp over the area to prevent further damage and leaks. It is a cost-effective way to protect your home.
Water Leaks
Roof leaks are a severe problem that can lead to significant water damage in your home. Even minor leaks can cause rotting wood, mold and mildew in your home. A substantial source of roof leaks is items that penetrate the roof, such as chimneys, vents and dormers. If you can see stains on your ceiling, they are usually near these penetrations. If you suspect a roof leak, have a helper go up to start soaking with a garden hose. Begin low and wash one area at a time, alternating sides. It will allow you to isolate areas and pinpoint where the leak appears in your house.
