Texarkana, Texas is located within the infamous “Tornado Alley”, as is the surrounding area. Once the storms have passed through this area, homes are often left with the need for asphalt shingle roof repairs or replacement. As a homeowner, how do you know if the roof on your home needs repairs?
How do you know your roof needs repairs?
Some common indications of storm damage that creates the need for asphalt shingle roof repairs include:
1. Missing Asphalt Shingles
The high winds that blow storms into this area are created by the winds within the tornados that frequently tear shingles off the roof. This is increased if the existing shingles are old or worn. Professional asphalt shingle roof repairs are recommended to prevent any further damage and leaks.
2. Damaged Asphalt Shingles
Shingles are damaged by the hailstones that come with the storms can damage the shingles. Left unaddressed, this can lead to roof leaks. This type of damage isn’t always visible from the ground, so it is best to have a professional roofing contractor inspect the roof. They know what to look for caused by hailstones and will advise if you need asphalt shingle roof repairs are needed.
3. Asphalt Granule Debris
When you’re finding asphalt shingle granules in the gutter runs and on the ground, this is a good indication your roof should be inspected by a roofing contractor. This happens when hard rains and hailstones plummet the rooftop, knocking the granules off and from the UV rays beating down on the roof every day. A roofing contractor can inspect the roof and advise if asphalt shingle roof repairs or replacement is needed.
4. Damaged Fascia, Soffit, Gutter, Flashing
When you see damage to the fascia, soffit, gutters, and flashing, it is a high possibility that your roof needs asphalt shingle roof repairs or replacement, When they’re showing signs of damage, the roof has taken the same type of abuse from the elements too.
5. Tree and Debris Damage
A major storm comes through Tornado Alley, it can break trees, even uproot trees, and send assorted debris flying through the air. These things tend to land on cars and rooftops, leaving damage. A roofing contractor can assess the damage and recommend what type of asphalt shingle roof repairs are needed or if a full roof replacement is the better option.
6. The Chimney
The high winds associated with major storms can loosen or pull the flashing off around the chimney, leading to water leaking around the chimney. This weakens the chimney’s stability, causing it to lean. A professional roofing contractor can inspect the chimney along with the roof and advise what level of asphalt shingles roof repairs are needed.
7. Attic or Ceiling Leaks
When the rain is pouring through the ceiling, it is apparent your home needs asphalt shingle roof repairs and possible replacement. Even if the rain isn’t pouring through, there can be indications of the roof damage in the attic by signs of moisture, mildew, mold, and wood rot.
8. Ice Dams
This is more common in areas with a lot of snow, but it happens in the Texarkana, Texas area too. Ice dams form during the winter when the ice and snow melt then refreeze at the eaves when the temperatures drop. This routine repeats over and over, building an ice dam. When left unaddressed, this can pull the gutters off, letting melted ice and snow seep under the shingles, causing roof leaks and extensive asphalt shingle roof repairs.
Can asphalt shingles be repaired?
If there are just a few asphalt shingles that are bent or cracked, they can be repaired on the roof with a waterproof sealant. Carefully lift the corner of the single and spread the sealant on the underside, then put it back in place. Now spread the sealant over the top of the crack and allow this to sit for 24 hours to cure and dry. This is an easy asphalt shingle roof repair job that can be done by the homeowner if you’re able to get on the roof safely.
Can you replace just a few shingles?
If less than 25% of the roof surface is damaged, yes, asphalt shingle roof repair or replacing just a few damaged shingles is possible. It is important to keep in mind that the replacement shingles are going to have a different color than the existing shingles and they won’t match. If this isn’t in a visible area of the roof, it may not be an issue regarding the exterior aesthetics of your home.
Up On The Rooftop
Having your roof inspected after any significant weather event is recommended, even if you don’t see any obvious asphalt shingle roof repair needs. A professional roofing contractor has the experience to know what to look for in the way or damaged shingles and other components of the roof.
