As a new homeowner you’re going to want to craft a space that’s entirely your own. The last thing you want is to focus on emergency repairs or damages as soon as you move in. As a result, many new homeowners are tempted to ignore the water stains curling on the ceiling or the clang of the gutter in the backyard. However, the first few months are crucial in ensuring the quality of your home. When you move in, take note of these five signs you have a roof in need of repair.
1. Shingles are Cracked or Missing
This is the easiest sign to notice: you can view the damage right from your front lawn, no ladders required. If your roof looks patchy, it might not be part of the design. A few missing shingles are easily replaced, but it could be a telling sign that your roof isn’t holding up as well as it could. Shingle repair is cheap, but it might be difficult to match the worn color of the rest of the roof.
2. Shingles are Curling
Look for leaks! You may not have noticed when you were touring the house, but water stains on the ceiling can be a telling sign that your roof isn’t doing its job. While shingles that are missing may have been loosened by weather, curling shingles are a sign of old age and possible water damage. Water damage can cost you a couple grand to fix if left untreated — on average $2,386 — so look into roofing services to get a cost estimate and assess any possible damage.
3. Moss
Though moss is common in humid environments like Maryland, it doesn’t mean that it looks nice on your Maryland roofing. Moss may not be a signal that you have a roof in need of immediate repair, but it is something to consider when you finally do need a replacement. Moss holds moisture and may inevitably cause a bit of water damage, but you can get rid of the occasional flare-ups with a little water and bleach. If you live in a moisture-prone area, consider purchasing a roof with zinc that is moss resistant. Roofing companies in Maryland provide roofing repair and maintenance that uses the highest quality of materials so you get the most out of your money.
4. Dark Streaks
You may think it’s just a little water damage, but dark streaks are usually algae. Like moss, algae thrives in humid climates and is easily taken care of with the water and bleach concoction you’ve readied for the moss. Just don’t use any high-pressure water hoses — that can take off granules and whole shingles, putting your roof and home at risk of further damages.
5. Old Age
Nothing is permanent and that includes the life of your roof. One roof replacement alone can need up to 26 squares of roofing, resulting in a cost between $2,000 and $8,000 depending on the roofing contractor you employ and the materials you choose. If your roof is looking old, ask your realtor or the previous homeowner how old the roof is — if it’s over 25 years old, you need to start looking into roofing services.
New homeowners have enough on their plate — they shouldn’t need to make emergency roof repairs on top of it. However, this is one home improvement task you shouldn’t put off for a rainy day. By looking for these five signs of damage on your roof, you can start thinking about whether or not you need reliable roofing services.
