Understanding The Most Common Form Of Roofing Damage

There are many ways your roof can suffer damage, although most occur during adverse weather events. In many cases, rains, snow, storms, and constant UV damage will wear your roof down, eventually causing enough problems to force a complete replacement. However, severe weather commonly causes more localized damage to your roof, resulting in just one or two affected shingles.

In these cases, it typically makes more sense to repair your roof than replace it, but it's important to understand how this damage occurs and why it's important to address it right away. By recognizing the signs of asphalt shingle damage, you can choose a repair option to restore your roof's appearance and functionality.

What Causes Shingle Damage? 

Shingle damage typically starts with hail, severe wind, or wind-driven debris. Hail and debris can batter your roof, knocking away granules, loosening the shingles, and creating noticeable pits and dents. This damage may appear cosmetic, but it weakens the shingles' integrity and potentially allows wind and water to work their way underneath.

Wind damage is more common on older roofs or roofs with existing damage. In heavy winds, air can push underneath a loosened shingle, pulling it away from the roof and creating a crease. Although the shingle may reseal, it typically won't offer nearly the same strength or protection. Once a shingle loosens in this way, it's likely to leak or break off entirely in the future.

How Can You Spot Shingle Damage?

Many homeowners wait to investigate roofing problems until they have clear signs of leaks or other issues. Unfortunately, this approach often means allowing a significant amount of damage to occur to the underlying roof structure. A leaking shingle can cause your roof decking to become moldy or rot away, leading to a more expensive repair or even a roofing replacement.

The best option is to inspect your roof at least once a year and after any major storm. Most roofing contractors offer free or relatively low-cost inspections if you're not comfortable inspecting your roof yourself. Routine inspections such as these can help you maintain your roof, spot problems, and avoid the costly repairs that can arise from untreated problems.

What Should You Do About Damaged Shingles?

If your roof is relatively new, you can usually replace a handful of damaged shingles without needing a replacement. However, it's imperative to act quickly. The longer you leave damaged shingles in place, the more likely water will damage your roof decking. Repairing roof decking is more expensive, and you'll likely need to replace your roof if you have several areas with rotted decking.

Like many other home issues, roofing problems are often affordable and manageable if you catch them early enough and act quickly. By paying attention to your roof, especially after severe weather, you can easily spot the signs of shingle damage and hire a roofer to address them before they lead to leaks and severe water damage.

To find out more, contact a company like P & G Renovations Roofing.


Share