Symptoms that indicate it may be time for a new roof:
(Read the description below to learn what's causing the problem.)
ALGAE GROWTH - Algae growth causes a dark discoloration on roofs. Algae is usually brown to black in color which results in a streaked, dirty looking rooftop. It can be mistaken for soot, dirt or tree droppings, which typically produce only localized discoloration. It’s caused by the growth of air-borne algae which deposits on your roof. The good news is that algae growth does not affect the service life of your roofing material. It occurs most often in warm, humid climates such as the southeast (where algae-resistant shingles are available).
BUCKLING – Blocking is most often caused by improperly applied felt, wrinkled underlayment, roof deck movement, spacers not used in between roof deck boards, poor roof ventilation or new shingles applied over old, rough shingles.
CURLING – Curling can be caused by high nails, lack of back coating, under-saturation of asphalt felt in organic shingles, lack of ventilation or improper number of fasteners.
DAMAGED FLASHING – Damaged Flashing is caused by improper installation on a new roof, drying and cracking on and old roof, dented by improper nailing, or settling of the structure.
MISSING GRANULES - Normally a certain number of granules will be loose, especially after application. These granules are called “riders” and are a normal result of the manufacturing process. Granule loss does not effect the service life of the shingles unless granules can be seen missing on the surface of the shingles, thus exposing the asphalt or Fiberglass mat.
MISSING SHINGLES – Missing shingles can be caused by Improper fastening or exposure to high winds.
CEILING SPOTS – Ceiling spots are frequently caused by leaks in the roof. Check in the attic for leaks in deck; check chimney and vents for cracks in flashing; check rafters for leaks that “travel” away from original source; check eaves for water backing up from ice dams; and check for damaged shingles on roof.
ROTTING - Rotting is commonly caused by absorption of moisture by the mat at the core of the shingle. This is often a problem with organic based shingles. One recommendation is to replace with mat shingles.
BLISTERING – Blistering is caused by moisture in the single. If the blister breaks open revealing the asphalt, the affected shingles should be replaced.