Spring is here. Look down, and you’ll see beautiful flowers and green grass. Look up, however, and you may see problems with your roof, or even worse, you may not see these problems at all. Here’s what you should keep an eye out for.
Animal Nests
You’re not the only one who thinks your home is a warm and cozy place to spend winter. If you’re hearing noises in the attic or crawl space, seeing animals hanging around one area of the roof or home, or finding droppings, you may have an unwelcome visitor.
You’ll need to find the hole, usually created due to a structural weakness, and block it. Check for points of entry under the eaves, around loose or missing shingles, on the corners of the roof, and even around gutters.
Remember that animals who feel threatened are dangerous. Even squirrels, although small, are fierce when cornered. Never approach these animals on your own.
Leaks
A sure sign of a roofing problem is finding interior leaks. Brown spots, bubbling drywall, paint that’s separating from the wall, mold, and wet surfaces are all indications of a water problem with your roof.
Leaks don’t necessarily start where you’re seeing the issue. Water travels along pipes and internal structures from the source of the leak and makes damages appear elsewhere in your home.
The good news is that a professional roofing contractor can often find the source of the leak and repair it rather than having to replace the entire roof.
Damages Around the Chimney
Chimneys can be an endless source of roofing issues in the spring. From the structure crumbling or cracking to gaps between the chimney and the flashing material, small chimney problems can become big issues fast.
During the winter, any small cracks on the chimney will expand and contract as ice and water gather in them. Signs that it needs attention can include obvious deterioration or loose flashing materials as well as interior leaks. Sometimes the repairs are as easy as replacing or repairing the flashing around the chimney, while other issues may require an overhaul of the chimney structure.
Damaged Underlayment
Gaps and missing shingles can mean damage to the underlayment of your roof. A professional roofing contractor can identify and replace the damaged materials, stopping any leaks or further damage to the roof’s deck.
Misaligned or Missing Shingles
Signs of issues with your shingles can include curling, warping, and cracking. In the most obvious cases, shingles will be missing altogether or there will be obvious signs of them shifting. You may find roofing materials around the home’s exterior. Wind damages and overhanging branches are frequent causes of problems.
Shingles are your roof’s first line of defense against weather. If you note any signs of problems with them, get a professional’s opinion on how to proceed. The repairs may be as simple as replacing materials on the damaged areas of your roof.
PJ’s Roofing is the preferred roofing expert for both residential and commercial projects in and around the Frederick area. Have a question or concern about your roof? Contact us for a consultation.
