What are the Signs of a Rotting Roof?

A rotting roof can cause major structural issues. For that reason alone, roof rot can be a detriment to your family’s safety. But even aside from structural problems, rotten roof boards may introduce the risk of mold, water damage, and rodent infestation. But what are the signs of a rotting roof? After all, you need to know what to look for. Your roof requires proper maintenance and care for it to last long and function well. However, roof wear and tear is inevitable. And even the most well-cared-for roofs wear out at the end of their lifespan.

So, if left unattended, rot damage will cost you a bundle. How do you spot the signs of a rotting roof?

Here are 5 Signs to Look Out for a Rotting Roof

1. Moss and Mold Growth

Your shingles may force themselves apart if your roof has moss and mold, forming a gap which lets water into the attic. From there, it’ll quickly move to your walls and ceilings. So, how do you spot it? During inspections, you will see algae and green moss growing on your shingles. Even a small amount can be harmful. It usually starts where water is allowed to stand—like leaf dams in the valleys and the edges of the roof if gutters are allowed to overflow.

Regularly inspect your roof to check for any signs of:

• Mold
• Algae
• Moss
• Soft spots that could indicate rotten wood underneath

Extensive damage may make full roof replacement necessary.

2. Deteriorated Shingles

Damaged shingles do not mean the whole roof is going bad. That gives you a bit of time to spot any decayed shingles. However, you should inspect your roof each season to make sure you don’t miss any damage. Look out for curling, cracking, blistering, splitting, peeling, and chipping. Replace any of the affected shingles as soon as you spot any of these signs.

3. Sunken Roof Deck

An uneven or sunken roof deck is one of the biggest signs of a rotting roof. You should have your roofer inspect the situation as soon as you spot these signs. In addition, when you’re in the attic, you may also see that parts of the roof deck are bowed in. This condition calls for urgent action. That’s because it can allow water to collect, making the situation worse. In extreme cases, the roof may even cave in. Ideally, you’ll spot other smaller signs of damage before your roof gets to this point.

4. Debris In Gutters

Sand-like granules “glued” onto asphalt shingles are your roof’s first line of defense. If you find yourself cleaning many of them out of your gutters, that means your roof is aging. The protective layer of the roof wears off due to long term usage, exposure to moisture, and atmospheric changes. For that reason, watch for bare spots. Shingles without granules covering them are more vulnerable to to the elements. In addition, keep your roof clear of tree debris.

5. Damaged Flashing

Flashing helps to protect your roof by keeping water away from seams in areas where water runoff is high. However, sealant deterioration due to oxidation or adverse weather conditions may damage your flashing. Loose flashing invites water to leak through to your ceiling and walls.

Does your roof feature any of these signs of a rotting roof? In that case, give Chattanooga Roofing a call. We’ll come out and give your roof a free inspection. For best results and longer roof lifespan, always hire a professional roofer for repairs or replacement. Simply call (423) 799-2173 today and we’ll help you out.