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Being a homeowner comes with many challenges and distinct knowledge that the majority of individuals aren't particularly familiar with, and that's normal. That's why experts like us, Dynamic Roofing Solutions, exist. But that doesn't mean that you can't arm yourself with some basic knowledge that can save you thousands of dollars and stress. Let's keep it simple, and break things down into two categories for warning signs. Exterior and Interior. Exterior As your coming and going from your home, doing yard work, or just hanging out with your family in the backyard, periodically take a look up at your roof and look for the following: Missing or Damaged Shingles. This one is the easiest. Look up and if your missing shingles, you've got a problem starting. Damaged shingles are a bit more difficult to see from the ground. However, depending on the height of your home you can still see shingles that are bent, torn, or curling. Anything other than laying flat against the roof deck is a sign something is wrong. Granule Loss The best way to look for granule loss is to check your gutters, if they have a buildup along the bottom of the gutters of granules (look like little rocks) than you likely have a granule loss problem. When up checking the gutters you should be able to see and reach the lowest course of shingles and see bare spots. You can even purchase a shingle gauge to test how deteriorated the shingle is. Much like checking a tires tread wear. Sagging From the ground looking up if you see any sagging or depressions, you are having an issue with your decking underneath your shingles. This can be caused by multiple problems like water leaks, improper ventilation, or even structural damage with rafters. This is a very serious problem and should be addressed immediately. Moss and Algae Growth Your shingles should be free and clear of any moss or algae on them. However, if you have a heavily shaded roof by trees it's normal to see a little bit of moss or algae growth. That being said, if your shingles look like a moss covered rock in the woods you are having mositure being trapped and degrading your shingles. In time, this will create leaks. Damaged Flashing Take a look at your valleys, chimneys, skylights or vents and look for any metal that may be lifted or not quite securely sealed to the surface its attached to. These areas are very prone to leaks and are one of the more common repairs we do. Interior Looking for interior damage is a pretty simple process and doesn't take a trained eye to notice you have a problem. Identifying exactly what causes the issue is a challenge, but that's what experts like us are for. If you see any of these below issues, you have a problem going on that needs addressed immediately. Water Stains Whether you see stains near the top of your walls or if you see them on the ceiling, you have a leak. You can venture into your attic and attempt to trace where the leak is coming from. Your attic is often the key to finding and diagnosing Mold or Mildew Growth Along with the last bullet point, if you see either of these on your ceilings or in your attic you have a moisture problem. This does not mean necessarily that you have a leak. You could have improper ventilation creating excess moisture in the attic space. Daylight in Attic Along the edge of your rafters nearest the edge of your home you should see some daylight coming through. However, if your seeing daylight come in anywhere else than your having a problem with covering over your ridge or over your roof decking itself. Ok so I have one or more of these warning signs, what now? Simply put, call your local professional roofer. If you are in the Cranberry Township, PA or greater Pittsburgh, PA area we can help you. Catching these warning signs early can save you on costly replacements or repairs down the line. Unfortunately, these issues do not fix themselves and will only continue to get worse and cause greater problems over time.