Your roof is one of the most important components of your home. It protects your property from the elements and provides insulation to keep energy costs down.

Inspecting your roof often is important, especially when the weather is bad. This way, you’ll know when it’s time for a new roof.

Loose Shingles

It’s obvious that if you find a large section of your roof missing, it’s time to call in the pros. The shingles of a roof work as a unified force against the elements; if one is blown off, it weakens the entire structure and can let water seep in, which may cause mold or mildew within your home. You should hire expert roofing contractors immediately before the damage gets worse as it could endanger you and everyone else.

Loose shingles can also indicate that your roof is getting old or that it was improperly installed in the first place. Replacing shingles is challenging and should be done by professionals.

Other signs that your roof is starting to age include cupping, curling or clawing. These are when the shingle ends point upward instead of down and can be caused by extreme weather, poor installation or simply aging materials.

Water Damage

Your roof is designed to protect your home from water damage and help keep it dry and comfortable. If your roof is damaged or nearing its lifespan, it may need to be replaced. A well-maintained roof can protect your belongings, increase your property value, and increase your home’s curb appeal.

One of the most common signs that it’s time to replace your roof is if you notice water stains on the ceiling or walls of your home. If there are puddles of water in your home, you should have it inspected by a professional immediately to prevent further damage.

Another sign is if you can see daylight coming through the attic or if there are signs of moisture in the insulation. These are both indicators that your roof is reaching the end of its lifespan and needs to be replaced.

Animal Damage

Animal damage can indicate a problem with your roof. If a creature has managed to get inside your home, it can cause serious damage. It can also be a health hazard to the homeowner.

Many animals carry ticks, fleas and mites that can enter the house. This can lead to serious illnesses in family members and pets.

If you notice any signs of animal damage, it is time to call a roofing contractor in South Jersey for an inspection. If the problem is severe enough, the roof might need to be replaced. Look for dark spots and discoloration, sagging in the roof, or areas where the shingles are balding. These are all signs that it is time for a new roof.

Mold or Mildew

Moisture and darkness are the breeding grounds of mold and mildew. If you have a water leak in the roofing or the air in your home is more humid than usual, there’s a higher chance that mold will develop on walls and ceilings. Mold spores are present everywhere and can germinate in the air in damp, humid conditions. They can take on various colors and shades, but black mold is especially dangerous.

Mildew and mold are both fungi that can cause allergic reactions in humans. However, mildew is a surface fungus that is easy to clean and not as invasive as mold. The left unchecked mold can spread and produce mycotoxins that wage war against your eyes, skin, and lungs. If you have a pre-existing breathing condition such as asthma, it can be exacerbated by mold exposure.

Leaks

A leak is the most obvious sign that your roof is reaching its end. Even a single leak can lead to significant water damage and mold growth.

Dark stains on the ceiling indicate that you need to replace your roof. Moisture reaching through a damaged or aged roof can cause damage to walls, ceilings, supports and joists.

Leaking can occur for many reasons, including ice dams, compromised shingles, deteriorating flashing and poor installation techniques. Leaks don’t get better on their own, and you should call a residential roofing contractor, NJ to replace your roof as soon as possible to minimize further damage.

Also, keep an eye out for rotting wood on your property. Rotting wood may indicate that your roof is at the end of its lifespan and needs to be replaced.