Asphalt shingle roofs are the most common roofing material in the United States because of their affordability. They can last 15 to 20 years with the proper maintenance, but they are not the most durable material out there. The heat, wind, and rain can drastically affect your asphalt shingles.
It is up to you to look out for any signs of damage. This will help you prevent future damage to the rest of the roof and your entire home. We recommend getting your roof inspected professionally at least once a year. The rest of the year, you can be on the lookout for signs of damage which we have listed below:
1. Moisture or Mold in the Attic
Moisture is the single greatest threat to your roof and home. Water damage is detrimental to building materials and will lead to mold growth. Mold thrives in dark, damp environments. If there is moisture in your attic, then mold will likely thrive if left untreated.
An attic inspection is something you can do regularly, preferably twice a year. Look for signs of water damage such as rotting wood, damp materials, water leaks, or sunlight peeking through holes in the ceiling. These are signs you are roof is damaged and requires repair.
2. Visible Damage to Shingles
To inspect your shingles, stay on the ground. We recommend you avoid going on your roof unless you have experience roofing. You should never go on the roof if it’s windy or wet. While inspecting your roof, look for visible signs of damage. Common signs of damage include the following:
- Curled shingles
- Missing shingles
- Crooked or rearranged shingles
- Blistered shingles
- Cracked shingles
- Mold or moss growing on them
These signs of damage should prompt a call to our team. We’ll inspect your roof more closely and perform the necessary repairs or replacements you need.
3. More Than 15 Years Old
Some asphalt shingles can last up to or past 20 years. However, a majority of asphalt shingles never last that long. The ones that do typically require a lot of maintenance or repairs. If your asphalt shingle roof s more than 15 years old, it likely has some aging problems.
We recommend getting a professional roofing contractor out to our home for an inspection. We can tell you what types of problems are associated with your roof and the next best course of action to preserve your home.
4. Damaged Flashing
Flashing is the material located at the base of your chimney. It is also found around vents, piping, and other seems on your roof. The seems of your roof are the weakest points, so flashing is used to reinforce it. Flashing is typically made of metal, but plastic and composite options are also available.
Common problems with flashing include the following:
- Missing flashing
- Cracked flashing
- Rusted or corroded flashing
- Loose or misaligned flashing
If you notice any of the above signs with your roof’s flashing, have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
5. Sagging Roof
A sagging roof is a sign that your roof has moisture damage. If you are experienced with getting on the roof, walk around and see if your roof is sturdy. Doing so will tell you if there are areas where it sags or sinks. If your roof is sagging, then it has water damage. You can likely find this damage in the attic too.
If you are not experienced with getting on the roof, check the attic for signs of water damage. You should also look for visible signs of sagging from the ground. This is a serious issue that should be addressed as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the worse the situation becomes and threatens the safety of everyone inside the home.
Contact The Asphalt Shingle Roof Experts
If you have any of the signs we listed above, give our roofing experts a call. Our team has more than 30 years of combined experience in the industry. Receive a free estimate for your roofing service by calling (213) 474-7092 or by visiting our contact page to fill out the form. Visit our roofing services page to learn more about our process and capabilities.