Ever looked up at your roof and wondered if the thing was in good shape?

Here are seven signs that it’s time to call in the pros: It’s tempting to overlook the roof because we don’t see it every day. But the roof is also very involved in keeping your home dry, safe and comfortable.

That’s why it’s helpful to know some of the things that can commonly happen to a roof over the years and ways to properly maintain it.

By catching issues early, you can keep your home in good condition and ensure that your roof lasts for a very long time.

Why Paying Attention to Your Roof Matters

Your roof doesn’t get a break throughout the year. It keeps out rain, resists wind, holds off the sun’s heat and even looks good on your house.

Even if everything seems to be in the clear, your roof could still use a bit of a checkup now and then. Tiny cues can be easily overlooked, though also repairable with relative ease if caught early.

Looking after your roof isn’t always about big jobs. A lot of times, it’s just regular checks and basic maintenance.

Missing or Loose Shingles

One thing to be on the lookout for is shingles that are riding up. They tend to slide out of place or disappear after a breezy day. That can occur as the adhesive that attaches it comes unhinged with age, when it is pulled loose by the weather.

When you notice those places looking lumpy or there is a spot where a piece of shingle is gone, that’s an ideal moment to investigate further. A shingle replacement is a fast, inexpensive repair that can maintain the strength of your roof and prevent water from seeping into the underlayment.

In regions of Australia where the weather can change rapidly, services such as roof restoration Perth are an intelligent choice to maintain things looking great throughout the seasons.

Flashing That Needs a Refresh

Flashing is the narrow strips of metal or rubber that cover a gap in your roof, around various elements of the house , such as a chimney, vent or skylight. It prevents water from attacking the tiny creases where the roof  meets something else.

With time, flashing can move or wear out of place, particularly where it is exposed to lots of sun or rain. If you see something that appears to be lifting, or out of place, this can be tugged, pushed back in place and a little help if reattachment is needed, or replaced.

A lot of householders investigate roof repair Perth solutions to ensure their flashing remains strong and dependable for the duration of each season.

Also Read:How to Maintain Your Roof Shingles to Increase Their Lifespan

Debris Collecting in Valleys

The roof valleys are the low points where two roof planes intersect. These spots tend to collect leaves, twigs, and even small branches. If that debris sits for too long, it can trap moisture and place stress on your shingles.

Now and then, it’s good to see what’s settled into the valleys and clear out what doesn’t belong. This can help prevent further wear and allow rainwater to flow freely into the gutters.

Gutters That Are Overflowing

A photograph of overflowing gutters on a weathered slate roof

Gutters are designed to divert rain off your roof and away from your home. They can overflow when they become blocked with leaves or small pieces of roofing material. This makes water sit on top of your roof, which is not great.

Realtors also know that keeping gutters clean a few times a year is good for keeping water moving and for seeing if anything unusual has collected there.

Small Bumps or Uneven Areas

Occasionally, the surface of a roof will begin to look uneven. You may notice small dips and some spots that appear to be raised. It can develop when a portion of the roof softens with moisture or when the support beneath shifts slightly.

Such shifts are typically slow and readily visible from the ground. Having someone look at it early means you can make some simple fixes that will help your roof last longer.

Vent and Chimney Care

Some vents and chimneys protrude from your roof that you’ll want to make sure are sealed well. Tiny gaps can form around the base when the sealant wears away or the flashing shifts.

Examining these areas occasionally allows you to pinpoint any small gaps that may require re-sealing. This type of repair is easy to do, but it keeps your roof sealed tight around critical spots such as exhaust pipes and vents.

Moss or Algae Growth

If your house is in a wet or shaded environment, occasionally moss or algae can begin to grow on the shingles. Although it may seem harmless, it can retain moisture.

Gently sweeping these surfaces clean or having a safe roof treatment applied keeps the roof dry and looking tidy. Some shingles have special coatings that will prevent the growth of moss, which is a useful feature when replacing small areas.

Inside Signs That Can Help

Your attic can also provide you with hints about the state of your roof. On rainy days, inspect the attic for damp spots, soft wood, or small leaks.

Light is to be observed where it’s coming through, even the smallest of gaps in the roof boards. These are the signs that alert you to where your attention must turn. There’s no need to make those big changes; rather, keep everything working well with simple repairs in those areas.

Seasonal Changes and Roof Movement

Different seasons come with different temperatures and weather patterns. As the roof heats up and cools down, it will move a little. This is ordinary; however, heavier pieces can displace shingles or distort small joints.

At the end of the season, step outside and gaze upward at your roof from several angles. If you see anything new or strange, a little tweak could be all you need to keep everyone secure.

Asking for Help from a Roofer

If you have a question about something on your roof or simply want a second opinion, a local roofer can assist. Roofers usually do inspections and will let you know exactly what your home needs.

Even if you don’t need to make any repairs, you’ll feel better knowing that everything is in order. Scheduling a professional to inspect your roof every few years is a great way to prepare and prevent future surprises.

Conclusion

Maintaining your roof need not be an arduous or costly process. There’s just power in knowing what to be looking for. Loose shingles, worn flashings, full gutters, and soft spots are simple to see and just need a little bit of attention. Cleaning leaves out of valleys, inspecting around vents and peeking inside the attic help keep everything in check. By following these simple tips, you can keep your roof in excellent condition while making your home safer and more comfortable.