Ever heard someone refer to a home as “a roof over your head”? It makes sense, because the roof is the part of your home that provides you with actual shelter. In the United States, asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material. They’re reliable and versatile, but over time—or after a bad storm—they may start to show signs of wear.
As a homeowner, it’s up to you to keep your roof in good condition so it can protect your home and belongings from harsh weather. But, before you grab your binoculars and head outside for a closer look at the roof, read this article so you can do an informed inspection. Here’s an overview of potential shingle issues, and how to know if your roof needs immediate attention.
Common signs of shingle damage
1. Missing shingles
Asphalt shingles are installed in neat rows, so you’ll probably be able to tell with your naked eye if a shingle—or section of shingles—is missing. Strong winds, heavy rains, or other extreme weather conditions can lift and loosen shingles.
An asphalt shingle roof will typically last 15-30 years, and as your shingles age, they’re likely to become more susceptible to weather damage. Poor quality materials, improper installation, animal activity, or a tree branch brushing against the roof could also cause shingles to detach.
Take missing shingles seriously. This type of roof damage can allow water to seep into your home, weakening its structural integrity and potentially damaging your home’s interior.
2. Curling or buckling shingles
Even if no shingles are missing, you may notice that some of your shingles no longer lay flat against the roof. If you see visible waves or signs of distortion instead of a smooth line of shingles, individual shingles may be curling or warped. Shingles can curl upward at the edges, known as “cupping,” or curl upward at the middle, known as “clawing.”
Asphalt shingles may curl or buckle for several reasons: They may warp if they were fastened to the roof incorrectly when they were first installed. If your roof isn’t well-ventilated, trapped moisture may cause your shingles to curl. Extreme temperature changes or heat buildup from an attic can lead shingles to expand and contract, resulting in buckling.
If you find uneven shingles on your roof, take action to address the underlying cause before the problem gets any worse.
3. Cracked or broken shingles
Asphalt shingles become less flexible as they age. This makes them more likely to crack and break, especially if they’re exposed to powerful storms.
If your home settles with age or experiences seismic activity, that structural movement can weaken your shingles—and so can falling tree branches. If anyone walks on the roof to do maintenance or construction work, that may also cause damage. Depending on the extent of the problem, it may be possible to repair the cracked or broken shingles with roofing cement or sealant.
4. “Bald” shingles
If you’ve ever touched an asphalt shingle with your bare hand, you know it has a rough surface. Those granules on top of each shingle aren’t just there for visual appeal; they serve a purpose. They protect the asphalt layer of the shingle from UV rays and weather damage. Shingles lose granules as they age, and storms can also knock them loose.
As granules wear off, the shingles start to go bald, giving your roof a patchy appearance. You may also find loose granules building up in your gutters and downspouts. Excess granule loss could make your roof more vulnerable to water damage.
5. A sagging or uneven roof
While most of the shingle issues on this list involve problems with individual shingles, it’s also possible that aging, weakened shingles could cause larger structural issues for your home. If your roof has a sagging or uneven appearance, your shingles could be allowing water into your home and causing severe water damage. This calls for immediate action.
6. A leaky roof
Even if you regularly inspect your roof, it’s possible that the first sign of a problem will occur inside your home. If you find water stains on your ceiling, go into the attic and try to find the source of the leak.
If you see damp areas or additional water stains on the underside of the roof or in the rafters, your shingles may no longer provide a waterproof seal. You’re most likely to notice a new leak after a recent storm. In addition to inspecting your shingles, check around chimneys, vents, and other openings to be sure the flashing is secure.
Is it time to call a roofing contractor?
If you have experience with roof repairs and the project is relatively simple, you may want to tackle it yourself. But repairing a roof is more dangerous than most DIY projects, especially since roofing work is typically done either from a ladder or from the roof itself.
If you see visible damage to your shingles or signs that water is entering your attic, you don’t have to fix the situation on your own. Call a professional for help with your roof issues. A roofing expert will be able to determine the extent of the problem, recommend the best way to handle it, and perform the repairs safely. If the damage is significant, they can help you figure out whether you need a new roof.
For long-lasting shingles, keep up with roof maintenance
How often do you think about your roof? It’s worth inspecting your shingles at least once or twice a year, as well as after any severe storm. Basic roof maintenance also involves cleaning debris from your gutters, because clogged gutters can cause water to pool on the roof. Keep tree branches near the roof trimmed so that they don’t scrape against the roof or fall on it in a storm.
A well-maintained roof is a beautiful part of your home’s exterior. It also plays a critical role in keeping your home dry and comfortable, even on rainy days. Your shingles do important work, and they deserve your attention.
