Austin residents know that the weather can be unpredictable. Strong winds, torrential downpours, large hail and sleet do not occur on a routine basis, but they happen frequently enough to inflict some major damage to your roof. Fortunately, most damage can be identified early — if you know how to read the signs. Early detection allows you to have a roof repair performed before extensive damage is done to your home’s structure or your possessions. Here are a few things that your roof may be trying to tell you about its current condition.
There’s a Fungus Among Us
If you have black stains on your asphalt shingles, you likely have algae growing on your roof. Algae is unsightly, and although it can weaken your shingles over time, it usually does not cause any significant problems. The best solution is to have your shingles professionally cleaned to remove the algae. Your roofer can then install zinc strips near the roof’s ridge to prevent the algae from returning. Alternatively, you could opt for algae-resistant shingles when you replace your roof.
We’re Washing Away
Granule loss leaves the asphalt exposed, allowing the sun to dry them out. Dry shingles are brittle, so they can crack easily. When shingles are new, you should expect to find granules in your gutter or on the ground after a rain, but if they are nearing the end of their expected life, degranulation is a warning that you need to be thinking about a roof replacement — soon.
You’re Seeing Spots
Spots can occur on interior walls or ceilings as well as on exterior walls, but they are not caused by the same problem. If you have spots or blotches on the interior walls or ceilings, you have a roof leak. If the spots are on the exterior walls, the step flashing where the wall meets the roof is damaged, rusted or loose. Regardless of location, you are in need of a professional roof repair to pinpoint the source and remedy the problem.
We’re Out of Here
You might think that missing shingles simply blew off in a strong wind, but they can disappear for other reasons. Asphalt shingles have a strip of sealant to help keep them in place, and the roofer should have nailed them down securely when they were installed. If the sealant fails due to a manufacturing flaw or age, however, the nails may not be enough. A strong wind, tree limbs scraping against your shingles or small animals taking a shortcut across your roof can be enough to loosen the shingles, allowing them to fall off. You will want to have a reputable residential roofing contractor replace the missing shingles to ensure that the overlapping pattern is correctly aligned.
Vent to Prevent
If your roof appears wavy or you can see that the edges of the shingles are turning up at the corners, you have a problem referred to as cupping. Cupping is normal if your shingles are well past their expected replacement date. However, if they are newer, cupping is a sign that your attic does not have the proper ventilation. Hot air rising from the attic heats up the bottom of the shingles, causing them to age prematurely and cup. Wind can blow rain under the shingles, and the water can begin to leak into the interior.
Let Us Help You Understand What Your Roof Is Saying
Alpha Roofing Industries is a roofing contractor in Austin, Tx and we have been installing and repairing asphalt shingles for over three decades. We know how to read the subtle signs of problems with a roof as well as the best way to deal with each roof’s unique issues. We serve customers in Austin and many other locations in Central Texas, providing superior results at competitive prices. In addition to installing and repairing asphalt shingles and flashing, we install metal roofing systems, and siding. We also offer algae removal, install skylights and repair chimneys. To receive a free quote, call one of our friendly, knowledgeable staff members at 512-777-1086 or use our convenient online form.