It’s officially spring!  With warm weather comes a lot of unfinished home projects.  Maybe this winter took a toll on your roof or this is finally the year you’re going to do those touch-ups you always promised yourself.  Here are some signs that you need your roof repaired:

Damaged Shingles

Let’s face it; shingles don’t last forever, especially in cities like Chicago that have such extreme weather conditions. If you see that your shingles are on their last leg, it’s time to call a Pro.   This could mean they’re cracked, curled, dirty, wet or absent altogether.

Shingle Granules in Gutters

If your shingles are made from asphalt or composite, their granules will start to wear into a material that resembles thick, black sand. It may end up in your gutter.  If this is the case, you’ll need them replaced.

Wear & Tear On Roof Objects/Openings

Especially after the winter, you might notice deterioration around your chimney, vest, pipes and other objects.  Fixes must be done, but they can often be confined to these specific areas.

A Sagging Roof Deck

During spring, everything is wet and melting.  This could lead to a sagging roof due to your decking or rafters in your attic not being able to hold their weight.  This may or may not be a localized issue, but it’s always best to get our professional opinion before taking any steps to fix the problem.

Higher Energy Bills

It’s never a good sign when your energy bills suddenly skyrocket.  Depending on if you have your heat or air conditioning on, the warm or cool air might be escaping through small cracks in your roof.  Once you address this problem, your energy bills will return to normal.

LEAKS

Fixing leaks is another necessity that should be at the top of your fix-it list.  Water damage can cause all sorts of problems over time, including rot, mold, and mildew, and premature deterioration of your roof.  Take note of where you spot water stains and mold so you can locate the source and stop the leaking before it gets worse, not to mention more costly.

POOR INSULATION

Attic leaks often go hand-in-hand with poor insulation.  If you noticed icicles forming on your roof over the winter, your house felt drafty or temperatures fluctuated between rooms, and your energy bills were through the roof, then you likely have some insulation issues.  It’s time to add or replace old insulation to keep your house comfy and your wallet happy.

Spring is a great time to evaluate your roof and make any necessary changes.