Minor problems don’t stay small for long, especially in the Pacific Northwest. Have you ever seen a strange water stain or found a shingle in your yard and just ignored it? Your home usually tries to warn you before a small issue becomes a big repair. Here are five signs worth taking seriously.
1. Water stains on ceilings or walls
A brown or yellow stain on a ceiling is rarely cosmetic. It usually means water is getting in somewhere above it, whether from a roof leak, failed flashing or a clogged gutter. The stain is where the water finally showed up, not necessarily where it started.
2. Missing, curled or damaged shingles
Shingles that are cracked, curling or missing leave the layers underneath exposed. After a windy storm, take a walk around your yard. A shingle on the ground is a good reason to have the roof checked.
3. Soft, discolored or peeling siding and trim
Paint that bubbles, peels or stains often points to moisture behind it. If a screwdriver sinks easily into trim or a board feels spongy, there may be rot that needs to be replaced, not just painted over.
4. Gutters that overflow, sag or pull away
Gutters carry water away from your roof, siding and foundation. When they are clogged or loose, water backs up under the shingles and soaks the fascia boards. Regular cleaning, and replacement when needed, is inexpensive protection.
5. A roof that is 20 years old or more
Age alone does not mean a roof has failed, but a roof that is 20 years old or more deserves a professional inspection, particularly in our wet climate.
What to do next
Do not wait for the next storm. A free inspection can tell you whether you need a simple repair or something bigger, and catching problems early is almost always less expensive. Call Salexx at 503-200-9880 and we will take a look.
