From the outside (and particularly from the ground), your roof may look to be in great condition when compared to other neighboring roofs. However, appearances can be deceiving. When it comes to roofing, there is often more than meets the eye. It is quite possible that your view from the ground is concealing a serious issue growing just beneath your roof’s surface. To save yourself time, money, and stress, be on the lookout for these signs that could point to hidden roof damage.
Clogged Gutter
A healthy gutter system promotes proper water runoff by redirecting rainfall away from your roof and your home. If your gutters are left unattended and not regularly cleaned, your neglected gutters will clog from fallen leaves, sticks, and other debris. Backed-up gutters allow water to pool along the edges of your roof causing extensive structural damage such as soggy roofing, wood rot, leaks, and algae growth, as well as animal and insect infestation. Even if your gutters aren’t visibly overflowing, it is important to check them regularly and make sure the water is flowing as it should.
Broken or Missing Shingles
While this may be a bit more visible, that’s not always the case. Understandable, roof shingles are the first line of defense against severe weather conditions such as rain, wind, heat, and fire. Designed to provide durable, overlapping protection, shingles can become cracked, frayed, or curled over time, leading to hidden roof damage. Shingles can also still remain in place but lift during severe weather, and thus, limiting their functionality. The appearance of broken or missing shingles could lead to:
- Water damage
- Interior leaks (or signs of leakage)
- Mold, mildew, or fungus growth
Visible Leaks
Even if you aren’t able to spot missing or broken shingles, the presence of wet floors, drips, or moist, discolored spots on your ceiling indicate that you have a leak in your roof. Unfortunately, if you see one leak, then chances are there are others. One important thing to remember: water damage doesn’t always appear at the source of the leak. Water will often follow gravity down trusses or other internal structures, and often times, show up far away from the actual compromised area of your roof. This is why, in order to avoid further water damage to the interior structure of your home, and potentially more expensive repair costs, you should contact a roofing company immediately.
Expert Roof Damage Repair
Rely on the services of roofing professionals to inspect your roof and clean and maintain your gutters to reduce the likelihood of hidden roof damage. At Roof Commander, our team will provide you with expert roof and gutter system inspections, repairs, maintenance, and installations. Our RoofPledge Protection Plan is designed to help alleviate your worry and allows you to leave the roofing to us. Regardless if you are looking for an Orlando roofing contractor, or are located somewhere in the Central Florida area, we are happy to answer any questions you may have! Contact us today to get a quote and ensure the quality of your roof, gutters, and home.