Over 23 years and running in the Valley! 602-996-7443 OR FAX 602-953-7090 Home Our Work Insurance Claim Testimonials Photos Blog Contact Us Five Signs You Need a Roof Inspection by Jack the Roofer. No one likes to think about it. In a perfect world, we never have to worry about our roofs. Instead, they simply exist overhead with no troubles or problems. On the outside, they look clean and inviting. On the inside, they look strong and durable. Unfortunately, this isn’t the world we live in, especially in Arizona where our roofs have to endure extreme heat and pounding rain. Our roofs can and will go bad, especially without regular inspections and maintenance. Whether it’s from the weather or simply due to old age, our roofs can start to deteriorate. That’s why it’s crucial to pay attention to warning signs of a failing roof so that you can act fast if your roof starts giving out. Here at Jack the Roofer, Arizona’s leading roofer, we believe that you should know what to look for when it comes to roof maintenance and repair. Take a look at our list of five major warning signs that your roof may need some work. Missing Shingles If you’ve noticed missing shingles on your roof, it’s definitely time for an inspection. Not only do missing shingles ruin the appearance of your roof and detract from the value of your home, they indicate that much worse is on the way. When your shingles begin to loosen and fall off, your roof becomes exposed to the elements. This includes intense UV radiation, but most importantly, it puts your roof at severe risk for water damage. With little protection, your roof is vulnerable to rain, snow, and ice damage that can quickly take root and spread throughout your home. One easy way to tell if your roof is beginning to experience water damage is to look from the inside. Often, you will see mold or stains growing where the problem area is located. In severe cases, you will notice a buckling of the roof. If left untreated, your roof will eventually give way under the pressure and begin to fall. Bald Shingles Take a look at your shingles. Do you see the tiny specs or granules, that should coat their outer surface? If not, this is the first sign of shingle damage. If you suspect that your shingles are losing granules, you should check your gutter and around your house. The presence of fallen granules in any of these places is a bad sign for your roof. Because these tiny specs are designed to protect your roof from UV radiation and other forms of weather damage, their disappearance is generally the first sign of major roof damage to come. Typically, having missing granules leads to missing or otherwise damaged shingles—both of which you don’t want for your roof. If you suspect that this is happening to your roof, don’t hesitate to get your roof professionally inspected. Remember that it’s much easier and cheaper to solve a problem when it’s first starting. Calling professional help early can save you time and hassle and quickly give you back the roof you deserve. Dry or Cracked Shingles Even if you’re not a roofing expert, there’s a good chance you know what cracked or dry shingles look like. In general, these shingles have lost their darkness and have already begun to fade. In addition, they will bear evidence of significant wear or tear. Cracked or dry shingles will often be curled or have an otherwise distorted appearance. You will want to take care of these shingles right away. Unfortunately, it doesn’t take much to rip damaged shingles straight from your roof. In the event of a storm, you could be facing severe roof and water damage. That’s why it’s important to call a professional at the first signs of damage. In addition, you should make sure to get your roof inspected at least two times a year. This can help prevent any small damage that may lead to something major down the road. Patchy Shingles Did you know that vegetation can actually grow on your shingles? I know—it’s not a pleasant thought. Unfortunately, this is a reality for many people who do not perform regular roof maintenance. If you see areas of your roof that look darker than the rest, it could be a sign that some type of vegetation has taken root on your roof. For some algae, fungi, or plants, the roof is a great place to soak up key nutrients from the sun. Unfortunately, this overgrowth can do more than just look bad—it can damage your home. Plant or fungal overgrowth on your roof can lead to missing granules and loose shingles. If left untreated, it can cause severe structural damage and the need for a complete roof replacement. If you notice plant growth on your roof, don’t take any chances. Call for an inspection immediately and have your roof looked at and fixed by qualified professionals. Fixing the problem early can keep your roof strong for years to come (and it will certainly give the neighbors one less thing to talk about). It’s Been Decades… Sometimes, your roof is just too old. Even if you don’t notice too many of the signs listed above, your roof could still be at the end of its lifespan. In general, roofs are installed to last around twenty to twenty-five years. If you know that you are reaching the end of this period, it’s best to go ahead and get a roof inspection. The benefits of doing this are multi-fold. First, you will be tackling problems before they arise, which saves you time and money. Second, you will be on the first path to getting a new roof that will provide your house with durable protection for the next two decades. You may be surprised at how much a new roof improves the look of your home. Customers who replace their old roofs often feel more confident in the overall appearance of their homes. They also enjoy greater resale value if they ever decide to put their properties on the market. So don’t hesitate. While your roof has provided long-lasting support over the last couple of decades, there will be no hard feelings if you call for a roofing inspection today. Jack the Roofer is always happy to perform routine roofing inspections and maintenance. For all you need in roof repair and replacement, call us today at 602-996-7443 and get the quality roof you deserve. Home Insurance Claim Testimonials Photos Blog Contact Us Copyright © 2014 Jack The Roofer AZ. 5202 E Charter Oak Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85254 5 stars - based on 22 reviews