It is essential to know if you need to replace a few shingles, or if you need a new roof. Learn about the types of damage and what you should do about it.
Be sure to consult a reputable home inspector or roofer for a professional opinion about the repairs needed for your roof.
10 Signs That You need a Roof Repair or Replacement
- Curling is when shingle edges curl up and away from the roof. These are warped and do not have a good seal to keep water out. This is a good indication that shingles are old and may need to be replaced. Some curled shingles can be resealed down.
- Bent or Creased Shingles happen when shingles are lifted by wind. Unchecked, singe tabs can crack and tear off. Bent shingles can be repaired without a whole roof replacement if your roof isn’t old enough to be replaced.
- Hail Damage can cause dimples in shingles. A large enough impact can cause a hole. Dimples can wear over time and become holes, so hail damaged shingles should be replaced.
- Blistering is caused by gases being heated and bubbling up to escape a shingle. This is usually a manufacturing problem or improper installation and may not always cause damage. However, blistered shingles will need to be replaced sooner since raised blisters will experience more weathering.
- Craze cracks are formed when the shingle mat dries out and causes shrinkage. This results in cracks on the surface of the shingle. It is a normal sign of wear and tear, so shingles may not need to be replaced unless the cracking extends through the shingle mat.
- Cupping is when shingle edges curl down into the roof. These are usually very brittle, so walking on them should be avoided. Cupping signals a home that needs to be re-roofed.
- Flaking happens when the asphalt layer and granules dry out and flake off. This indicates severe aging and means a home urgently needs to be re-roofed.
- Mold, Moss, or Lichen can damage shingles, so it should be gently cleaned off as it accumulates. Do not use a pressure washer since this can damage shingles and dislodge granules.
- Sagging or bowing can indicate a big problem with your roof trusses, decking, or other support systems. Have an inspector check what the problem is and hire a contractor to repair the damage.
- Granule Loss happens over time and causes shingles to bald. Normal wear and tear can result in some granule loss. However, granules can also be knocked off by tree limbs, hail, or other storms. If only a few shingles have granule loss, then those can be replaced. If a whole roof looks bald, then it is time for a new roof.