Many homeowners only look at the exterior of their roof when trying to determine if it is time for a new roof installation. Often, the outside looks fine at a glance, but underneath major damage has already begun to affect your home. It's a good idea to visit your attic if you really want a good gauge of the shape of your roof. 

1. Wet Insulation

Most attics are heavily insulated, particularly in colder climates. Insulation can act like a sponge and soak up any water that is leaking through the roof. Check your insulation carefully for wet spots that may indicate a roof leak. There may also be dark areas, which occur when mold begins to grow on the wet insulation. 

2. Daylight Views

Visit your attic in the middle of a sunny day. It should be dark, except perhaps some light coming in through gable end vents. If you see any light coming in through the main overhead portions of the roof, then that means water can leak in through those very same gaps. A repair, if not a whole replacement, is necessary.

3. Water Stains

Use a bright flashlight to examine every inch of the attic ceiling, which is the underside of the roof. The color of the plywood should be even, with no darker or lighter spots that indicate a water stain. Dark spots, in particular, are most troubling because they indicate that the wood is still wet from an active leak. Lighter spots only require an inspection to make sure there is no current leak. 

4. Musty Odors

The air in a dry attic may seem a little stale and dusty, especially on a warm day, but it shouldn't have that musty odor that is most often associated with mildew and mold. If the attic smells of damp and mildew, then there may be a leak somewhere that needs to be addressed. A roofing contractor can determine where the moisture is coming from and the best way to address the issue.

5. Sagging Ceilings

In severe cases, water damage may make its way into the main part of your house before you notice problems. Sometimes you may spot a developing water stain on the ceiling, but often it is sealed in by the latex paint. You may not notice an issue until the ceiling drywall begins to sag or the paint bubbles outward due to the water trapped behind it. 

Contact a roofing installation service if you suspect damages to your roof.

Share