6 Common Signs Of Hidden Roof Damage

Your roof often conceals signs of damage that can quietly accumulate until they become significant problems. While some issues are immediately visible, others lurk in the shadows, slowly deteriorating your roof's integrity over time. This post will shine a light on those hidden signs of roof damage to help you ensure that your roof stays strong and is able to protect your home and family for years to come. 

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1) Mold & Mildew

Mold and mildew thrive in damp, poorly ventilated environments, making your roof an ideal breeding ground. While some homeowners may associate mold and mildew with visible signs of water damage, such as stains or discoloration on ceilings, these unsightly patches can also proliferate unseen within your attic. Musty odors and respiratory issues may be the only initial clues of a mold infestation, which can be easily overlooked or mistaken for other issues. However, prolonged exposure to mold can pose serious health risks and compromise indoor air quality. 

Identifying Mold & Mildew:

• Inspect the underside of the roof decking in the attic for visible mold or mildew growth.
• Check for moisture or water stains on the attic insulation, indicating potential water infiltration.
• Examine the soffit and fascia boards for signs of mold or mildew growth, especially in areas with poor ventilation.
• Inspect roof vents, skylights, and other roof penetrations for signs of mold or mildew around seams or edges.

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2) Foul Odors

Foul odors emanating from your roof can be indicative of various underlying issues, including trapped moisture, mold growth, or even pest infestations. Because odors are subjective and can be masked by other smells, they are often dismissed or ignored by homeowners. Nevertheless, persistent foul odors should never be ignored, as they may signal hidden roof damage that requires immediate attention.

Identifying Foul Odors:

• Inspect the attic for signs of moisture, leaks, or mold growth, as these can contribute to foul odors.
• Check for dead animals or pests, such as rodents or birds, that may have become trapped or nested in the attic or roof spaces.
• Examine the roof vents, exhaust fans, and other ventilation openings for blockages or obstructions that could be causing stagnant air and foul odors.
• Look for signs of sewage or plumbing leaks in the attic or roof spaces, as these can also result in foul odors permeating the home.

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3) Shiners

Shiners are nails that have backed out from the roof sheathing, typically caused by workers missing the framing with the nail, leaving small holes with the protruding nail exposed to the elements. The term “shiners” refers to these nails being covered in frost in colder temperatures, giving them a shiny appearance. These seemingly insignificant punctures can lead to water infiltration and eventually cause rot and structural damage. Shiners are often overlooked because they are only visible during a close inspection of the underside of the roof framing. Even if initially installed correctly, roofing nails can start to protrude over the years as your house settles.

Identifying Shiners:

• Inspect the underside of the roof sheathing in the attic using a flashlight.
• Look for raised or uneven areas in the roofing material, which may indicate nails pushing through.
• Check for spots of light shining through the roof sheathing, indicating exposed nails.
• Examine the exterior of the roof for shiny spots or indentations in the roofing material.

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4) Dirty Soffit Vents

Soffits, the underside of roof eaves, can provide valuable clues about the health of your roof. Dirty or discolored soffits are indicative of poor ventilation or excess moisture, both of which can accelerate roof deterioration. Soffits are not always within direct line of sight, so homeowners may overlook them during routine maintenance checks. Ignoring dirty soffits can lead to attic mold, wood rot, and compromised structural integrity. 

Identifying Dirty Soffits:

• Restricted airflow through the soffit vents, leading to poor ventilation in the attic.
• Evidence of moisture or water damage on the underside of the soffit panels.
• Visible accumulation of dirt, dust, or debris on the soffit panels.
• Discoloration or staining around the soffit vents, indicating moisture buildup.

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5) Damaged Flashing

Flashings are metal strips installed around roof penetrations, such as chimneys, vents, and skylights, to prevent water intrusion. When damaged or improperly installed, flashings can create pathways for water to infiltrate the roof and underlying structure. Unlike missing shingles or obvious leaks, damaged flashing can be harder to detect because it requires a closer inspection of vulnerable areas. However, neglecting damaged flashing can result in costly water damage and compromise the entire roofing system. 

Identifying Damaged Flashing:

• Inspect areas around roof penetrations such as chimneys, vents, skylights, and dormers for signs of damaged flashing.
• Look for visible cracks, gaps, or corrosion in the flashing material.
• Check for loose or missing flashing pieces that may have become dislodged or detached.
• Pay attention to any water stains or discoloration on ceilings or walls near roof penetrations, indicating potential water intrusion.

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6) Damaged Or Missing Drip Edges

Gutter aprons, also known as drip edges, are essential components of the roofing system that prevent water from seeping behind the gutters and causing damage to the fascia and soffits. When damaged or missing, drip edges can allow water to infiltrate the underlying structure, leading to rot, mold, and structural instability. Gutter aprons are located at the edge of the roof and may not be readily visible from the ground, and their condition is often missed during routine inspections. Ignoring damaged or missing gutter aprons can result in costly water damage and compromise the integrity of your home's exterior.

Identifying Damaged Or Missing Drip Edges:

• Use a ladder to access the roof and inspect the edges closely for signs of damage or missing sections of the drip edge.
• Check for bent, warped, or corroded drip edge material, which may indicate damage or deterioration.
• Look for areas where the roofing material appears to be lifted or separated from the roof decking, as this may indicate a missing or improperly installed drip edge.
• Examine the gutter system for signs of water damage or overflow, which may occur if the drip edge is missing or damaged and allows water to seep behind the gutter.

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Professional Roof Inspections Can Help!

Getting your roof and attic inspected regularly is the best way to avoid any of the issues discussed in this post. Hidden damage is the worst kind of damage to your roof because it often causes more serious issues to develop by the time you are able to detect that anything is amiss. Professional inspections and maintenance involve detailed searching for these issues by experts who know what to look for around your roof. Call Integrated Roofing Solutions, or a professional near you, to find and prevent hidden roof damage before it gets worse!