2 Subtle Signs You May Need to Replace Your Home's Shingled Roof

While examining your home's roof from the ground, you may believe that it is in pretty good shape. Since you do not see any missing shingles or obviously damaged areas, you may think that you can get by with a few more years without having to have it repaired or replaced.

However, although the roof may appear sound, there may be severe damage that is not fully recognizable at first. Below are a couple of subtle signs that your shingled roof has sustained serious damage and may need the services of a professional to determine whether it needs to be replaced.

1.  Surfaces of the Shingles Have Become Smooth and Uneven

One subtle sign that your home's roof has sustained serious damage is when the surfaces of the shingles have become smooth and uneven in appearance. Normally, the shingles should have flat surfaces that are rough due to the embedded granules. These granules are vital for protecting the bases of the shingles against moisture and impact.

As the shingles age or are subjected to adverse weather conditions, however, these granules will start to shed. You may find them in your gutters or on the ground around your house. One or two missing granules are nothing to be alarmed about. However, if enough have shed to create smooth surfaces on the shingles, this indicates that the shingles are no longer protected and are already starting to deteriorate.

Once the shingles no longer have their protective granular layer, they will start to blister, crack, and curl. Even if you cannot see this type of damage on the ground, you may start to notice that the overall appearance of your roof will start to look uneven.

2.  Large, Dark Sections of Shingles Appear on the Roof in Several Places 

Another sign that your home's roof may need to be replaced is when you start noticing large, dark sections appear in several places. Especially if the shingles are black or a darker shade of another color, you may not see these discolorations except in specific lighting conditions.

If the sections of dark shingles are primarily in the shade, it is possible that the discoloration actually represents the growth of blue-green algae. Because shaded areas on the roof take longer to dry out after a rainstorm and shield the areas from the sun, the extra moisture creates ideal conditions for the algae to grow.

These algae do not necessarily present a danger to your roof and can be removed. While you can do this job yourself, you want to first make sure that the discolorations are caused by the growth of algae and not damaged shingles, as attempting to clean the damaged roof could cause even further damage.

If the discolorations are widespread, are located in the shade, and/or are seen with other signs of severe damage, these areas may be caused by moisture that has become trapped underneath the shingles. They could mean that the shingles and/or the underlayment have started to deteriorate. If you suspect this may be the case, you should have a roofer inspect the roof to determine the cause of the darkened shingles.

3.  Small Drafts or Whistling Air Is Present on the Upper Floors of Your Home

While the signs above may not be easily seen or recognizable at first glance, they do potentially represent serious issues that need to be addressed as soon as possible by a professional. Contact a contractor who offers roofing replacement services to have them thoroughly inspect your roof to determine whether or not it needs to be replaced so that they can discuss with you available options.

To learn more, contact companies like Select Exteriors.

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