Three Subtle Signs Of Damage To Your Roof After A Storm

Damage to a roof after a storm won't always be obvious. The more subtle signs of trouble are caused by failing roof material, retained moisture, and slow-working moisture damage to your roof's underlying structure.

Shingle Granule Loss

On asphalt shingle roofs, some loss of granules is normal. A little loss over time will happen with every roof, and it's also normal to see a little more than usual after heavy inclement weather. However, if you notice far more granular loss than usual, this could be a sign that warrants further investigation.

Granules themselves aren't what makes your roof waterproof, but a sudden loss of granules could indicate damage to the shingles themselves. If you notice significantly more granules in your gutters or near downspouts, take a closer look at your roof and check it for signs of cracked, torn, or missing shingles, or "bald patches" where certain sections of the roof are missing more shingles than the rest. This could be a weak point in your roof's weatherproof seal and should be investigated by a professional to make sure any potential water damage is caught early.

Clogged Gutters and Ice Dams

Clogged gutters and ice dams can both result in the same potential problem: holding moisture on your roof rather than letting it wash off. Ice dams can also cause physical damage to roofing material, and this won't always be noticeable so long as ice and snow are on your roof.

The potential for damage is especially high if either of these problems have been allowed to remain for several days or longer. As moisture is held on your roof, it may find its way underneath your roofing material and into your home rather than washing off the roof as it's supposed to.

One sign this damage is starting to take place is moss growth on your roof. Moss will start to grow where moisture hasn't evaporated, and its rhizoids will push up shingles and compound the problem.

Warping, Leaning, Rotting Roof Structure

Water damage is rarely instant when it starts affecting wood. Once it starts becoming noticeable, you might smell something musty, or you may see slight changes in the shape of your roof. Moisture-affected wood often starts to bend, and it can be so slight at first that it takes careful inspection to notice. Once it gets more drastic, your roof may take on a noticeable lean.

When in doubt, a quick inspection of your attic for signs of warping and rotting can help confirm any suspected leak-related damage. A moisture meter for detecting water behind your walls can help. Any signs of water damage to your roof should be repaired immediately as these issues can weaken your roof's entire structure and encourage mold growth in the long term.

Contact a residential roofer company, such as MDJ Roofing & Construction, to learn more.