As the first line of defense against brutal elements, the roof absorbs a lot of wear and tear. While you can perform some roof maintenance by yourself, such as cleaning the gutters and downspouts, your roof needs professional inspections and repairs regularly. Discover the signs that you should consult residential roofers below.

Missing or Cracked Shingles 

Roofers recommend inspecting your roof after severe weather like high winds and hail because shingles can loosen, crack, or fall into your yard. Shingles serve as a watertight barrier that prevents water infiltration and protects the underlying materials. 

A roof with missing or damaged shingles is prone to leaks that can cause extensive property damage. So, have a professional roofer check your roof when you discover shingle pieces in your yard, or spot cracked shingles. 

Leaks and Water Signs

A leaky roof is hard to miss as you will see water spots in the ceiling and walls or hear dripping sounds in the attic. Mold growth is another effect of a leaky roof, characterized by a musty smell that doesn't disappear even after opening all the windows. 

If the roof has extensive damage, water may pool in unusual areas after a downpour. A residential roofer inspects the entire roof, identifying the leaking area and performing the necessary repairs. 

Sagging 

A sagging roof is always an alarming sign. The primary cause of a sagging roof is poor installation, where inexperienced technicians use undersized materials, too many shingles, or poorly-constructed roofing joints. 

Water damage can also cause sagging, while an excessive snowfall load can stress the roof's structure and lead to drooping. A residential roofer fixes sagging in various ways, depending on the root cause. For instance, the roofers may only need to reinforce the internal framing to strengthen the roof.

Rising Energy Costs

Your roof is likely not the first thing you consider when you receive high energy bills. However, poor ventilation, leaks, and old roofing materials can reduce your home's energy efficiency. Talk to a residential roofer about energy-efficient materials like metal, cool roof shingles, and tile to reduce energy bills. 

Damage Flashing

Flashing is a thin metal used by roofers to direct water away from skylights, chimneys, and vents. When you inspect your roofing system, pay attention to these features, as damaged flashing leads to water leaks. Flashing damage usually manifests as corrosion, dents, and holes.

Conclusion

Roofing repairs are less expensive and straightforward if you contact a residential roofing contractor as soon as you notice a problem. Additional times to call a roofer are when buying a new house and installing new materials.