Many people who have had to perform a major roof repair will say that they did not see it coming. Indeed, a small leak can cause extensive roof damage over a long period of time if it goes unnoticed. This is more so when the homeowner does not notice the leak in the first place. The only way to discover leaks is regular inspections performed on the roof. The roof inspection should be performed after every severe hail storm. For many Calgary homeowners, understanding the signs of a roof leak is essential to ensuring the longevity and safety of your roof.

Ceiling Spots

Discolored spots on the ceiling are a straight giveaway of a leaking roof. Water dripping onto the ceiling causes algae and mold growth on the damp surface. This discoloration can appear as black, blackish-green, or even yellow color.

Damaged Flashing

Flashing may be improperly installed. It can also get damaged from weathering or when the roof’s angle changes as the foundation settles. Damaged flashing is a source of leaks in most cases of leaking roofs.

Missing Shingles

High winds can easily blow off shingles that have not been properly set to the roof. It is easy to spot missing shingles. The open spaces are easy conduits for water to leak into the roof.

Rotting Shingles & Roof Timbers

Shingles and roof timbers will rot when exposed to water and dampness for an extended period of time.

Curling Shingles

Shingles will curl on the lower edges when they are improperly set. The expansion will also occur if the attic has poor ventilation. The space created by the curling becomes a conduit for leaking water.

Blistered Shingles

Shingles will blister when there is inadequate drainage, meaning that they are exposed to more moisture than usual. The blistering will occur especially where there is poor ventilation as the shingles form a good base of growth for algae and fungi.

Missing Shingle Granules

You can spot missing shingle granules by spotting bare spots on the shingles. You will also find an excessive amount of shingle granules in your eavestroughs.  After spotting the missing shingle granules, look for leaks that may have occurred at those spots.

Buckled Shingles

Improper installation of shingles will make them buckle. This will also happen when new shingles are installed over old shingles. Buckling will also occur in case of poor ventilation as the expanding air exerts pressure on the roof. The buckling shingles will create gaps where water will leak into the attic or areas underneath the roof.

Growth Of Algae, Moss, & Mold

Algae, mold and moss grow in damp spaces. Wherever this growth is spotted, it is a pointer that there is more moisture than usual which can be a sign of a leak.