Working as a roofer in Citrus County and Spring Hill, I inspect roofs in just about every condition imaginable. Some problems are obvious, like a section of missing shingles. Others start small and can go unnoticed until water reaches the plywood, attic or drywall ceiling.
Florida roofs take a beating. Strong sunlight, high humidity, torrential rain, falling debris and hurricane-force winds all contribute to roof deterioration. Knowing what to look for can help you catch roof damage early and possibly avoid a much more expensive repair.
Granule Loss Is Often One of the First Signs
One of the first things I notice on an aging shingle roof is significant granule loss.
Granules are the small, rough particles covering the surface of asphalt shingles. They help protect the asphalt from sunlight and weather exposure. As a roof ages, these granules gradually loosen and wash away.
From the ground, granule loss may look like fading or dark areas where the black asphalt underneath is beginning to show. You might also notice areas that appear shiny or almost glittery. That can be a sign that the shingle's fiberglass mat is becoming exposed.
Some granule loss is normal, especially on a newly installed roof. However, widespread fading, bald spots or exposed fiberglass can indicate that the shingles are getting close to the end of their useful life.
A professional roof inspection can help determine whether you need a localized roof repair or whether it is more cost-effective to consider a complete roof replacement.
High Winds Can Lift or Remove Shingles
High winds do not always blow an entire shingle off the roof. Sometimes the wind lifts the lower edge of the shingle and breaks the adhesive seal underneath it.
Once that seal is broken, the shingle becomes more vulnerable during the next storm. Wind can continue getting underneath it until the shingle creases, tears or blows off completely.
After a heavy windstorm, look for:
- Shingles lying in the yard
- Sections of roof that appear uneven
- Lifted shingle tabs
- Creased or folded shingles
- Exposed nails
- Missing ridge-cap shingles
Missing shingles should be replaced quickly. Once the nails and underlayment are exposed, water has a much easier path to the roof decking and attic.
We provide roof repair for storm and wind damage throughout Beverly Hills, Crystal River, Homosassa, Inverness, Inverness Highlands North and surrounding communities.
What Hail Damage Looks Like
Hail damage is not always easy to identify from the ground.
On asphalt shingles, hail may leave small circular indentations or dark spots where granules were knocked away. Fresh hail strikes can sometimes feel soft or bruised when inspected closely.
Not every dark mark is hail damage. Foot traffic, falling branches, manufacturing variations and ordinary aging can create similar-looking marks. That is why it is important to have the roof inspected by someone who knows the difference.
Wind and hail damage may be covered by homeowners insurance, depending on the cause of damage, the policy language and the applicable deductible. Homeowners should always review their policy and communicate directly with their insurance company. A roofing contractor can document visible damage and provide an estimate, but the insurance company determines whether a claim is covered.
Leaves and Debris Can Cause Roof Leaks
Another common problem I find is a buildup of leaves, pine needles and other debris in roof valleys.
Valleys are designed to carry a large amount of water off the roof. When debris creates a dam, water can slow down, pool or back up underneath the shingles.
Organic debris also holds moisture against the roofing material. Over time, that constant moisture can encourage algae growth and speed up deterioration.
I generally recommend cleaning debris off the roof at least twice a year. Homes surrounded by oak trees, pine trees or other heavy foliage may need more frequent cleaning.
Roof cleaning should be performed carefully. Walking on an older roof can cause additional damage, and using excessive water pressure can remove protective granules from the shingles.
Ceiling Stains Are a Serious Warning Sign
Homeowners should pay close attention to any discoloration on their ceilings after heavy rain.
A roof leak may first appear as a faint gray or yellow spot. Over the following days or weeks, the area may darken, turn brown or grow larger.
Do not wait until water is actively dripping into the room. By the time you see a ceiling stain, moisture may already have reached the insulation, roof decking and drywall.
A licensed roofing contractor should inspect the area and determine whether the roof needs to be tarped, repaired or replaced.
Improper Roof Installation Creates Long-Term Problems
Some of the worst roof problems I see are caused by improper installation.
This can happen when unlicensed workers perform the job, when crews are unfamiliar with Florida roofing requirements or when someone attempts a major roofing project without the proper training.
Common installation problems include:
- Incorrect nail placement
- Too few fasteners
- Improper flashing
- Poorly sealed penetrations
- Incorrect underlayment installation
- Materials installed on the wrong roof slope
- Poor workmanship around valleys and roof-to-wall areas
These problems may not leak immediately. They often show up several years later, sometimes after the workmanship warranty is gone or the installer can no longer be reached.
Always verify that your roofing contractor is properly licensed and insured. Look at recent reviews, ask who will actually be completing the work and make sure the contractor has a reliable local presence.
Schedule an Inspection Before a Small Problem Grows
A roof does not have to be actively leaking to need attention.
Granule loss, lifted shingles, clogged valleys and damaged flashing can all be early warnings. Catching these problems early may give you the option of completing a targeted roof damage repair instead of replacing damaged decking, insulation and drywall later.
Destination Roofing Inc. provides professional roof inspections, roof repairs and roof replacements throughout Citrus County and the Spring Hill area.
When you are unsure about the condition of your roof, having it inspected is the safest place to start.
Deston Judy is the owner of Destination Roofing Inc., a family-owned roofing contractor serving Citrus County, FL. Florida native, Florida-licensed roofer (License # CCC1335406), and Atlas Certified Scotchgard™ Shingle Sales Specialist. Read more about the company →