The roof is one of the most important components of a home, providing protection from rain, wind, hail and snow. A roof can last for many years, but it eventually needs replacing.
CRS Roofing Company alerts homeowners to watch for signs like damaged shingles and leaks, emphasizing quality roofing materials for prevention. Here are 5 warning signs you need to call a roofing contractor in Portland.
1. Leaks
A leak is an unintended hole or crack through which water, light, gas, or other material enters or escapes. Leaks are a common problem with roofs, and they can lead to costly water damage.
Leaks are a common sign that you need to call a residential roofing contractor in Portland for repairs or replacement. A professional roofer can help you decide what kind of roofing material is best for your home based on its architectural style and the local climate conditions.
A legitimate roofing company will never ask for full payment before beginning work. This is a red flag that could indicate that the roofer is trying to scam you. It’s also important to choose a roofing company that has experience in repairing different kinds of roofs.
2. Loose Shingles
The roof is one of the most important components of your home. It’s constantly exposed to baking sun, blustering winds, and drenching rain. It’s essential to take steps to prevent deterioration.
Missing or loose shingles are not only a huge eyesore, but they can also compromise the integrity of your entire roof. They can allow hot or cold air to escape from your house, driving up your energy costs.
If you notice any missing or loose shingles, it’s best to call a professional. They can inspect the problem area and provide a comprehensive plan for repair. Depending on the severity of the damage, they may recommend replacing your roof. Performing regular touch-ups and inspections will help extend the lifespan of your shingle roof. This will save you a lot of money in the long run.
3. Damaged Gutters
Gutters help to prevent standing water and excess moisture from causing problems to the walls, foundation and roof of your home. If they become damaged, this can cause serious issues, so if you notice damage to your gutters it’s important to have them repaired as soon as possible.
If your gutters are clogged, this can result in back-flow of rainwater into the gutter trough and down your walls. Over time, this can cause rotting and decay to your gutters and even lead to foundation damage.
Gutter downspouts should be positioned to direct water away from your house. If they aren’t, this can cause water to pool in your basement, leading to a wet foundation and mildew and mold. The best way to avoid this is to keep your gutters clog-free.
4. Damaged Flashing
Roof flashing helps prevent leaks around chimneys, vents, skylights and other roof penetrations. Flashing can become corroded from weather, or it may be damaged due to improper installation. When the flashing is damaged, water can seep under and into the shingles.
Sometimes a flashing problem can be difficult to spot. It is best to carefully climb up on your roof using a ladder while following proper safety precautions. This will allow you to examine each section of your roof systematically.
Look for flashing that has rust spots or holes. These are signs of corrosion and should be addressed right away by a roofing contractor. These holes are likely to lead to interior water damage. If the holes are severe, the flashing will need to be removed and replaced.
5. Mold
Mold is more than just an eyesore, it can damage the materials it grows on and be a health hazard for some people. It releases spores into the air that can cause allergic reactions in some people, including stuffy nose, irritated eyes, wheezing and skin irritation.
Mold spores can grow on wet cellulose materials, such as wood and paper. They are also more common in rainy or humid areas.
Mold can be any color and often has a musty odor. It is found in damp environments and can be hidden in places such as under carpets, behind drywall, inside ductwork and more. A mold problem should be investigated as soon as possible to prevent further damage and health issues.