Harsh weather conditions can cause your roof shingles to weaken over time. And when the shingles experience wear and tear, it leads to mildew and mold growth in addition to rotting. All of these factors can adversely affect your home’s overall structural integrity. Read on to learn when to repair the roof shingles in your NJ home.
Common Signs That Your Roof Shingles Need Repair
- Attic Leaks or Exposure
Suppose you come across any evidence of dampness, mold, leakage, or sunlight peeking through. In that case, it means that your roofing is not doing its job properly. In most cases, attic leaks or exposure have to do with the shingles themselves or the flashing or underlayment. It is always a good idea to have a certified inspector examine the problem.
- Blistering or Peeling Exterior Paint
Blistering or peeling paint is a sign of inadequate ventilation, as opposed to roof damage. However, since air circulation is critical to ensure your house’s safety from excess moisture, we suggest finding the reason behind the paint peeling or blistering. It could be due to a missing or poorly installed shingle.
- Ceiling and Wall Stains
Improper ventilation and leaks may both draw moisture from the roof into your home. The outcome: the emergence of watermarks owing to failing shingles. Watermarks present themselves as sports, stains, discolorations, or streaks on your walls or ceilings.
- Dark Streaks on Roofing
Moisture accumulation on your roof may lead to the development of algae and moss, particularly in areas with reduced exposure to sunlight. This algae and moss typically develop as black, brown, or green streaks. While they may not signal shingle damage, their appearance tarnishes your home’s curb appeal. For this reason, we suggest you replace the affected shingles.
- Sagging
Sagging occurs as your roof sustains damage over time. Broken or missing shingles may contribute to moisture inflow, leading to the breakdown of your roof’s underlayment and sheathing. Signs of decay indicate sagging shingles in most cases.
- Broken Gutters
Gutters are an integral part of any home’s roofing system. If you come across any cracked, detached, or damaged gutters, it is a good idea to get your roof shingles inspected. Gutters that are not working allow excessive moisture to build up in vulnerable spots on your home’s roof, increasing the risk of damage.
- Cracked, Loose, or Missing Shingles
The most evident sign of roof damage is visible issues with the shingles themselves. This can take several forms, such as:
- Broken shingles
- Loosened shingles
- Cracked shingles
- Warped shingles
- Worn out in spots
- Curled (cupping)
- Missing granules
- Areas where shingles are missing
- Shingles fallen onto the ground (after storms)
- Animal Nesting
Roof issues may also occur due to nests created by woodpeckers, squirrels, and more. Pests may contribute to shingle marring, reducing the overall effectiveness of the material.