As a responsible homeowner, you are aware that you need to check on the condition of your roof periodically in order to stay on top of necessary maintenance and repairs. But do you know exactly what to look for and where to look? The following are our top 5 signs of potential roof damage in Ottawa.
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- 1. Visible signs of damage to shingles, or missing shingles.
As shingles age or become damaged from exposure to weather, they crack, curl or become dislodged. Shingles can also become stained from algae growth and will lose their protective granules over time. “Balding” shingles may appear to be a slightly different colour than the shingles that have retained more granules.
- 1. Visible signs of damage to shingles, or missing shingles.
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- 2. Signs of water damage in the attic, such as stains, mold, mildew or wet spots.
If damage to your roof is allowing water to leak into your attic, this will be visible during an inspection of the attic.
- 2. Signs of water damage in the attic, such as stains, mold, mildew or wet spots.
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- 3. Signs that there is damaged flashing around chimneys.
The areas around chimneys and other protrusions from your roof are particularly vulnerable to leaks. Metal flashing is used to prevent water from seeping through the roof in these areas, but it can be damaged due to age or exposure, just like your shingles. Check for signs of rust, flashing that has come loose or areas where the flashing appears to be missing.
- 3. Signs that there is damaged flashing around chimneys.
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- 4. Blocked or damaged gutters and downspouts.
If your eavestrough system is not functioning perfectly, it can cause leaks even if your roof is in good repair. Your gutters and your roof work in conjunction to protect your home from the elements. Ignore one, and you might as well ignore both.
- 4. Blocked or damaged gutters and downspouts.
- 5. Build-up of debris on the roof, or areas where water is able to pool.
Debris, such as leaves and dirt, may become trapped in valleys on your roof. The shape, slope and configuration of your roof may make your roof more or less prone to the accumulation of debris. Debris can damage shingles or allow water to pool and seep under the shingles.Another similar problem is ice damming. If ice is permitted to build up around the edge of your roof, water can pool behind the ice and seep into your home. The cause of ice damming in Ottawa is often inadequate insulation in the attic.
While by no means an exhaustive list, these 5 points should help you to keep a watchful eye on your home’s first line of defence. Call Roofmaster today for all of your roofing needs in Ottawa and the surrounding areas.
