Your roof is NOT simply a top layer of shingles, tiles or exterior membrane exposed to the elements, viewed from the street. Each part of your roofing system then plays an integral part in waterproofing and protecting your home. There are many signs to tell whether your not your roof needs some serious attention! There are also plenty of causes as to why may need a roof replacement. Did you know that if your home has asphalt shingles for the roof, you should get it repaired every 15-30 years? If your home has composition shingles, then it’s every 12-20 years! If your home’s roof has had its fair share of weather damage, and seems to show symptoms of destruction, Fisher Family Construction can offer you a free estimate.
What damage is most common?
Water Leak in the Attic
After strong storms, take a look in your attic for any signs of leaking. Damming of ice can also cause water to enter the house if you don’t have adequate shingle underlayment, or if the flashing has deteriorated. If you see your attic leaking, you may want to look into our roof restorations.
Blistering or Peeling of Interior or Exterior Paint
When paint starts to peel off, the cause is likely trapped moisture in the house due to excessive temperature or high humidity from poor attic ventilation. The air in the attic needs to flow freely from the soffit to the ridge to reduce humidity. Make sure there is a vent in areas such as the kitchen or bathroom. Dryers should vent outside.
Stains on Interior Ceilings and Walls
If you see stains or, even worse, mold growth inside your home, it may be caused by inadequate or faulty shingle underlayment that is allowing water to seep into the house. Inadequate ventilation could also be the culprit, which causes excessive moisture— conditions in which mold and mildew thrive.
Exterior Decay, Sheathing or Siding
Poor attic ventilation is again a possible cause of roofing damage, but any condition that results in excess moisture can contribute to decay. One way to combat the problem is to put a vapor barrier between the insulation and the inside of the house, which can reduce the amount of moisture that goes into a wall and help the moisture escape from the wall.
Missing, Cracked or Curled Shingles
If you see that your shingles are dry or practically break when touched, that means they have reached the end of their useful life and it’s time to invest in a roof replacement or at least a roof repair!
Dark, "Dirty-Looking" Areas On Your Roof
This could mean your roof has vegetation, fungus, mold, or algae growth, or that the shingles’ protective granules have been lost. This doesn’t mean you need a roof shingles repair, but a roof repair can reduce curb appeal. Cleaning the shingles is an option, but that could shorten their life.
Higher Cooling Costs
A possible cause of higher cooling costs could be insufficient attic ventilation, requiring the cooling system to run excessively. In warm weather, inadequate ventilation will trap hot air in the attic, causing air-conditioning systems to work harder, or leaving your home’s interior hotter and less comfortable. In both hot and cold weather, moisture in the attic can become trapped and condense on the rafters if it’s not insulated properly. This moisture can drip down onto the insulation and reduce its effectiveness, potentially increasing energy costs, causing more roofing problems. Contact our experienced roofers in Montana and get help today!