These 5 Signs are Warning Signs That Your Roof is Damaged

Roof damage is one of the most frustrating and stressful things homeowners can experience. Roof damage is very common in Florida because of frequent thunderstorms and occasional hurricanes.

Common Signs of Roof Damage

These are the five most frequent signs of roof damage that can be seen in Central Florida. This is not an exhaustive list. These signs only apply to asphalt roofs, not metal or tile.

1. You are missing Shingles

Missing shingles is one of the most obvious signs that your roof has suffered damage. Shingles can become detached from your roof if your roof is exposed to high winds, especially if it is older.

If missing shingles are found in the roof valley or on a part of the roof not visible from the ground, they can be easily identified. It is important to contact a professional roofing contractor immediately if you notice missing shingles. They can either replace them or install a new roof. It may not be possible to repair the roof if there are missing shingles. The roof’s integrity will be further compromised if the missing shingles are not replaced.

2. Peeling or cracking

Peeling and cracking are other signs of room damage. You should notice asphalt shingles curling upwards or crack on their surfaces. This is a sign that your roof needs replacement.

It happens due to the intense Florida sun, wind, and rain. This is a sign your roof is getting old and may be nearing the end of its lifespan. If your shingles start to peel or crack, contact a professional roofing company right away.

3. Waterstains on your Ceiling

A leaky roof is most likely to cause water stains on your ceiling. Remember that plumbing and HVAC ductwork can leak in your attic and cause water stains on your ceiling.

If you notice stains on your ceiling after heavy rains, this could be a sign that your roof is leaking. A professional roofing company can inspect your roof and tell you if it needs to be repaired or replaced.

4. Discolored Shingles

Shingles that are discolored indicate that the roof has lost most of its Granules from wind and rain. Granules are what give asphalt shingles their waterproofing and protective qualities. The granules slowly dissolve as the roof ages and eventually wash into your gutters.

It is a natural process that happens over many years. Although you may not yet have a problem with your roof or any other issues, if your shingles start to discolor, it is only a matter of time before you see water damage and missing shingles.

5. Sagging

Sagging roofs are another sign that your roof is damaged. Sagging indicates that the decking underneath your shingles has begun to rot or is beginning to deteriorate. Decking refers to the plywood that is attached to your roof’s support trusses. The decking is then covered with shingles, giving support to your roof structure.

The decking will begin to sag over time. You may need to replace any or all of the roof’s decking if you notice a “dip”, especially in the middle. A professional roofer will need to complete the roof replacement.

This post was written by Ted Williams! Ted is the owner of A Old Time Roofing which offers roofing in St Petersburg FL. Ted is a Master Elite Weather Stopper GAF Roofing Contractor, a double award winner of Best Steep-Slope Contractor from GAF and achiever of Master Elite Consumer Protection Excellence from GAF. He has been serving the Pinellas County area since 1978.  Old Time Roofing has a tradition of quality workmanship, servicing residential and commercial properties.