The most obvious sign you might need a new roof is finding water inside your home. To prevent leaks from getting through to your living space, regularly inspect your attic especially after a rain storm or if you notice large icicles along your eaves in winter. Icicles could be a sign of an ice dam which forms when snow on the roof melts, runs down to the eaves, then freezes. As more water runs down and encounters the ice dam, it may then run up and under the shingles, potentially penetrating the roof deck.
When investigating a water source, keep in mind that water can travel a fair distance from the actual leak to where it eventually shows itself. Look for dark spots in attic lumber, especially around vents and chimneys, caused by an active leak or condensation from poor roof ventilation. While checking for leaks, see if the roof decking is sagging between the rafters. If it is, it will need to be replaced when a new roof is installed.
Outdoors, inspect shingles for waves or ripples, adhesive failure, surface dull spots, broken or loose shingles. Loose granules on the surface is an indication of shingle decay. A few loose shingles may not mean a total roof replacement and could be a simple DIY repair.
Whether you are installing a new roof or repairing an existing roof, TIMBER MART has all the supplies you will need to get the job done right! Talk to one of our Roofing Experts about your project today.