Vigilance is often the key to home longevity. If you pay careful attention to your roof, you can spot issues often before they become too severe. Here are five warning signs of a leaky roof. If you notice any one of these issues, contact us at J. A. Edwards America.
Active Drips
This one is a dead give away. If you see water dripping from the ceiling or seeping down the walls, you should act immediately. Addressing an active leak right away will help to prevent further damage. Even if the active dripping seems to stop, the problem has likely relocated rather than vanished entirely. Water means a leaky roof.
Water Stains on Ceilings and Walls
Brown or yellow rings and semi-circles probably indicate the presence of water that has abated for the time being. As the water seeps through holes and cracks in your roof, it picks up materials that are then deposited when the water dries. When these stains appear on your walls and ceilings, that means the water has already reached the interior of your home. As with active drips, seek expert help immediately for a leaky roof.
You can also look for staining on your roof joists. Periodic assessment of your attic space with a good light might alert you to the presence of water before enough of it has fully penetrated your home’s interior. Slight staining on a roof joist can indicate the source of a small problem before it becomes a big one.
Exterior Wall Spots
Examine your exterior walls as well. Spots under the eaves or beneath gutters could indicate water drainage issues.
Damaged Shingles
Whether they are buckled, cracked, warped, or outright missing, shingles with damage are going to present a problem with roof leaks sooner or later. If you, as a homeowner, can clearly see damaged shingles, the issues are probably more serious than you realize. Any factor that affects the integrity of the shingles will eventually lead to a leaky roof and water in the interior of your home.
Granules in the Gutters
The presence of shingle granules in your gutters or at the mouth of the downspouts is a more subtle indication of shingle damage. Obviously, if the granules are not on the shingles, they cannot do anything to protect the shingle from further damage. If you see a lot of granule build up, it might be time to replace your roof.
Contact Us
Any of these warning signs are fairly easy to spot for the average homeowner. Knowing the severity of, source of, and solution to the problem is a matter best left to professionals. If you see any of these issues with your home, contact us at J. A. Edwards America to get a knowledgable professional on the job.