Homeowners have a habit of noticing certain roof problems but shrugging them off. If the roof isn't majorly leaking or missing rows of shingles, you might figure what you are seeing is just normal wear and tear. In some cases, you might be right. But you don't want to grow too complacent and end up ignoring a roof problem that could benefit from professional attention. Here are some often-ignored roof issues that you shouldn't overlook.
Shingles That Are Lifted Along the Edges
If some of your shingles have lifted edges, it would be easy to ignore this because you figure they're still attached and must therefore still be doing their job. But this is not the case. Water can seep under the edge of lifted shingles. If this happens in the winter, the water might freeze and fully pry the shingles from the roof surface. This will quickly lead to big leaks! So, it's best to have lifted shingles replaced before they become completely dislodged.
Popped Nails
If you look across your roof and see some nails sticking up, this is a reason to call your roofer. You should call them whether or not the nails are covered by another layer of shingles. Water can seep in around the nails, leading to lots of little leaks. Even if only a tiny bit of water comes in around each nail, it can lead to mold and mildew in your attic. A roofer can replace these nails, plug the old nail holes, and make sure all of your shingles are well attached.
Granules in the Gutters
If you have noticed a lot of little pebbles and bits of asphalt in your gutters, those pieces are coming from your shingles. And they are definitely a reason to call a roofer. When granules rinse off the shingles, those shingles are on the verge of failure. Water will not run off them quickly, and leaks will be imminent.
Usually, once a few shingles start losing their granules, the others follow. So, even if your shingles look okay from the ground, the granules usually indicate you'll need a roof replacement soon. A roofer can take a look and let you know how long it's safe to wait.
It is not a good idea to ignore the roof problems discussed above. Contact a roofing company in your area to learn more about shingle roof maintenance and repair.
When you have something you like inside a jar, you probably put a lid on it — right? In a way, you can think of your house in the same manner. You like and value the items inside, along with the inside of the house itself. So, it only makes sense that you would protect the interior of your home with a lid. That lid is your roof.
Keep that perspective in mind as you read this blog. Learning more about roofing will feel more interesting if you remember what a roof does: it protects the inside of the home and the people who live in it.