Cold weather can be tough on your roof, especially after ice and snowstorms. This is because water expands and takes up more space as it freezes. As water works its way under your shingles, it can create an ice dam that causes water to leak into your attic. Heavy snows can cause your soffits to sag too.
Checking for roof damage after winter is crucial, so you can have any trouble areas fixed before spring rain has a chance to make things worse. Here’s how to spot roof damage and when to call Master Roofers for help.
Look For Obvious Problems
First thing’s first—you need to check for signs of damage that are visible just by looking at your roof. This includes things like:
● Missing or buckling shingles
● Shingles with bald spots
● Dark streaks across multiple shingles
● Algae or mold on shingles
● Sagging soffits
● Loose or rusted flashing
● Granules coming from the gutters
In most cases, these issues are a clear sign that something is wrong. For example, missing shingles leave your roof vulnerable to leaks, while algae can indicate trapped moisture inside.
Even small issues like rusted flashing aren’t just cosmetic and almost always lead to bigger problems down the line if not addressed. By catching any problems early, you can save yourself from more expensive repairs and extend the life of your roof.
Check for Water Damage Indoors
Whether or not you see algae outside, the next step is to look inside for any indicators that water has leaked through your roof. For example, you might notice things like:
● Blistering or peeling paint
● Discoloration on the ceiling
● Ceiling feels soft or wet to the touch
● Light coming through your attic
● High indoor humidity
● A damp, musty odor
Unfortunately, water damage is more than just a structural problem. It can also create the perfect breeding ground for mold, mildew, and harmful bacteria that can get into your air. This can be especially problematic for people with health conditions like asthma and COPD.
Keep an Eye on Your Energy Bills
Another sign that there’s a potential problem with your roof is rising energy bills. When your roof is damaged, it becomes less effective at keeping warm or cool air in your home. In turn, this causes your HVAC system to work harder and increases your electric expenses.
After winter, your energy costs should take a dip in between the heating and cooling seasons. If it doesn’t, your roof could be the culprit.
Hire a Qualified Roofing Expert
The last thing you want when winter is finally on its way out is to deal with a roofing emergency. While it might be tempting to leave minor damage alone, this is almost never a good idea. Missing shingles, holes in your roof, and other issues can easily be made worse with just one spring rain.
Having your roof checked by a professional after every winter is a great way to spot potential problems. Then, you can have anything fixed before it turns into a major issue.
Do You Need Roof Repairs? Call Master Roofers Now
If your roof is sagging, warped, or otherwise damaged after winter, we’ve got you covered. Our team of Massachusetts and New Hampshire roofers can come to your home for a free quote, so you know exactly what needs to be fixed and how much it will cost.
Click here to get in touch or call 603-935-5035 to chat with an expert roofer today.
Why Customers Choose Us
● Serving New Hampshire and select service areas for 80+ years
● Three-generation family owned and operated
● Industry-leading workmanship and materials warranties
● We only use shingles from GAF, America’s #1 brand
● Estimates are always free
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