A roof issue rarely starts as a major problem.
It starts small… a crack, a loose shingle, a little discoloration…Then a storm hits. Suddenly, you’re dealing with water damage, mold, and a repair bill that can easily reach high costs. At Bacon Insurance Group, we frequently see claims that could have been prevented with simple inspections and early action. Most roof damage gives you warning signs long before it turns into a claim.

Here’s how to spot them early so you can protect your home and your wallet!

7 Early Warning Signs Your Roof Needs Attention:

1. Granules in Your Gutters: If you’re seeing sand-like material in your gutters, your shingles are breaking down. Glandules protect your roof from UV damage, once they are gone, shingles age faster and fail faster.
2. Curling or Buckling Shingles: Shingles that curl, ripple or look uneven are a sign of poor ventilation, heat build up in the attic and aging material. This can make your rook more vulnerable to wind damage.
3. Cracked/Splitting Shingles: Cracks allow water to seep in, especially during freeze/thaw cycles in the winter which can lead to leaks in your home.
4. Missing Shingles After a Storm: Urgent! This could mean direct exposure to water which can quickly lead to interior damage.
5. Loose of Lifting Shingles: If your shingles lift easily, the seal has failed and could mean the wind ripping your roof right off.
6. Black Streaks or Moss Growth: Those dark streaks on your roof are probably algae, and moss can trap moisture which causes rotting beneath the shingles.
7. Damage Around Chimneys & Vents: Failures around chimneys, vents, and skylights can also cause hidden roof leaks.

Helpful Tips:

1. Check your roof in the spring after winter freeze/thaw cycles. In the fall before storms and colder temps. After major storms and high winds. Any time you notice water spots.
2. If you find damage that is isolated, under 15 years old or only a few shingles are affected a repair may be in order. Replacement may be smarter if the damage is widespread, shingles are brittle and curling, or the roof is pushing 15 years old.
3. Trim trees at least six feet away from your roof.
4. Keep gutters clean and flowing.
5. Schedule professional inspections annually.

If you’re not sure whether your roof condition could impact your insurance or you just want help, we are just a phone call away at Bacon Insurance Group. We are happy to walk you through your current coverage, any potential gaps and ways to protect your home long term.

Learn More About Proactive Roof Maintenance on our article on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bacon-insurance-group/?viewAsMember=true