Being in the Wisconsin roofing and exterior renovation business for over two decades, we’ve run into our fair share of roofing problems and can usually pinpoint the cause of those issues after a quick assessment.
Exterior Issues You Should Keep an Eye On
Here are some common home exterior problems that we run into that are often a signal that it’s time to replace or repair your roof:
Problem: Missing, cracked, or curling shingles.
Possible cause: It’s likely that your shingles have reached the end of their useful life. Most shingles last roughly 25 years (read our blog post about shingle materials to learn more about the expected lifespan of yours!), so if you’re nearing that mark, it’s time to get a second look from an expert!
Problem: Dark, “dirty-looking” areas of your roof.
Possible causes: These areas of your roof can be unsightly and they are also indicators of poor shingle health. Environmental decay from pollutants, vegetation, fungus, or algae growth can cause this damage, along with age-related granule loss. A trusted contractor will be able to tell you if the problem is environmental or due to the age/quality of the shingle, and how to proceed from there.
Problem: Leakage in attic after driving rain.
Possible causes: Your home should protect you from the outside elements. If there’s leakage in your home, something is most certainly wrong. If you’re experiencing leaks, the cause could point to an inadequate roofing system (underlayments, flashings, or shingles), from a poor installation, or from deteriorated/damaged flashing (a thin metal layer installed in the crevices of your roof to prevent water from pooling).
Problem: Stains on interior ceilings and walls or mold and mildew growth.
Possible causes: If there are stains in your attic, on your ceilings, or showing up in other areas of your home, it’s likely that you have either an inadequate roofing system or that your home has inadequate ventilation. Inadequate ventilation can cause hot air to become trapped in your home, damaging your roof and spike your energy bill! Solutions can include installing new shingles or a ventilation system, depending on the cause.
Problem: Roof shingle, sheathing, and siding decay.
Possible causes: Decaying shingles, sheathing (the wood decking that lies underneath your shingles), or siding could be a sign of poor attic ventilation. Excess moisture builds up from the trapped hot air and makes its way into your roof or siding, dissolving the adhesives and warping the materials. Decay can also happen naturally with age and environmental damages.
If your roof is showing any of the above signs and you’d like a trusted expert’s opinion, reach out to Big Fish Contracting – we’d love to talk to you about how we can fix it! Contact us through our contact form or give us a call at 262-470-1114 to set up your free roofing estimate.
