Roofs are built to withstand damage from intense weather, but even the toughest of materials will eventually succumb to the elements. Homeowners should always be on the lookout for damage to their roof as it protects both them and everything in their home from wind, rain, snow, and more. But what should homeowners be looking for? Here are five warning signs homeowners can keep their eyes open for to identify if their roof needs repair or replacement.

1. Light Is Visible In the Attic

Without even setting foot outside, homeowners are able to tell if something is wrong with their roof. When doing routine inspections in the attic, take note of now much sunlight is inside it. If the homeowner can see light streaming inside, this is a sign that wind and rain can get in as well, and if this is the case, there may be water damage or mold growth in the attic as well. Homeowners may want to buy a mold testing kit to make sure there isn’t any hidden damage mold or water damage in the attic.

2. There Is Damage From Hail

When hail gets big enough, it’s easy for it to damage everything it impacts with, and that includes roofs. When hail hits a roof, it will create a small circular area where there are no granules, which impacts the longevity of the shingle and its ability to protect from the elements. If a homeowner is unsure if their roof has been damaged by hail, they can also look at other areas for signs of damage that can confirm it. Here are other locations that are likely to be affected by hail:

• Gutters
• Cars kept outside without cover
• Air conditioners
• Siding (especially aluminum and vinyl)
• Window screens
• Vinyl windows

If damage from hail is found on any of these things, it’s likely the roof has also sustained damage, and repairs may be necessary. However, some different roofing materials may present hail damage differently, so be sure to research what hail damage looks like in accordance to the type of roof is on the house.

3. There Are Granules In the Gutters

Shingles can loose their granules for two different reasons: the first is that when the shingles are new, some of the granules aren’t as well attached as the rest and will come off with just a little help from rain and wind. The second reason is that the shingles are getting old and nearing the end of their lifespan. When cleaning out gutters, homeowners should be on the lookout for fallen granules at the bottom. If there’s a collection growing, it’s a sign that the home will need a new roof.

4. Shingles Are Curled, Cracked, or Misshapen

In order to function properly, shingles must be flat, straight, and in one piece. However, as shingles age, it’s common for them to become being, curled, or broken, which means they are allowing moisture to get inside the home. In addition to age, any of these defects can be caused by extreme weather conditions such as strong winds or temperature, or animals trying to get beneath them. If this sort of damage is a common sight on a roof, it’s a sign that it needs to be replaced.

5. Shingle Are Missing

One of the easiest ways to spot damage on a roof is to look for missing shingles. If shingles come off a home, they can usually be found on the ground beside the home. Missing shingles can be a sign that the roof is old and needs replacing, or if the roof is still new, it can mean that the shingles weren’t properly installed. In either situation, homeowners should contact a roofer to replace the roof or fix any improper installation.

By keeping an eye on their roof, Stone Creek homeowners can help themselves ensure that they catch damage when it happens in order to fix it as quickly as possible and give it the longest lifespan possible.