Christian Construction is a roofer in Staten Island, serving the entire NYC area and parts of New Jersey. We know roofing. We have an amazing team that is here to help with any roofing need you may have, no matter how large or how small. We can help you repair a small issue, clean your gutters, or even provide you with a complete reroofing to replace your existing roof. If you need roof inspections, we can provide that as well.
But we also know that not everyone wants to call for help right away. First, you want to survey your roof yourself, looking to see if there’s any reason to call and pay for an inspection – especially if you’re not currently experiencing any major issues, and are simply giving your home a lookover for your own personal reasons.
So, with that in mind, we’ve created a bit of a how to. We’ve created a guide to tell you what to look for in AND outside of your home when you’re on your roof if you’re looking to see if a professional inspection is necessary.
Let’s get started.
Signs that it’s Time to Call in the Professionals
Keep in mind, this guide assumes that your roof is in otherwise decent condition. After all, if you’re experiencing leaks or clearly visible damage, then of course you need a roofing company. Instead, our focus here is going to be more subtle signs – the signs that you might need a roof inspection, not the signs that you for sure need a roof replacement.
These include:
- Visible Shingle Damage – Any time you have *any* visible shingle damage of any kind, it may be a good idea to get an inspection. It means either a) your shingles are getting older and becoming damaged more easily, or b), something hard came into contact with your roof that caused shingle damage, and you’re going to need to find out if it caused any additional issues.
- Granule Loss from Shingles – If you’re noticing small granules accumulating in your gutters or downspouts, that’s a sign that your shingles are starting to deteriorate. Asphalt shingles are coated with granules that protect them from UV rays and weather damage. When those granules start to fall off, the shingles become vulnerable to cracking, curling, and water infiltration. If the granule loss is significant, it could mean your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan.
- Sagging or Uneven Roofline – A roofline should appear straight and even. If you notice any areas where the roof appears to sag or dip, that’s a potential sign of structural issues. Sagging can result from moisture buildup, weakened support beams, or rotting roof decking. Left untreated, sagging can lead to major structural failure and costly repairs.
- Dark Stains or Streaks on the Roof – Discoloration or dark streaks on your roof can indicate the presence of algae or mold growth. While algae itself isn’t typically harmful to the roof’s structure, it can retain moisture, leading to shingle damage and rot over time. Mold, on the other hand, can weaken roofing materials and pose health risks to those living inside the home. Both are also signs that your roofing material may be nearing its end.
- Flashing Damage – Flashing is the thin metal material that seals joints and edges around chimneys, skylights, vents, and other roof penetrations. If the flashing is bent, cracked, or pulling away from the roof, water can easily seep into those vulnerable areas. Even small gaps in flashing can lead to significant water damage if not addressed quickly.
- Curling or Buckling Shingles – Shingles that are curling at the edges or buckling in the middle are signs of aging or heat damage. This type of damage reduces the shingles’ ability to shed water and increases the risk of leaks. Curling and buckling also make shingles more vulnerable to being blown off in high winds, which can create an entry point for rain and pests.
- Gutter Overflow or Poor Drainage – Your roof relies on a properly functioning gutter system to channel water away from the structure. If you notice that your gutters are overflowing or clogged with debris, it could lead to water backing up under your shingles and causing rot or leaks. Poor drainage can also cause water to pool around the foundation of your home, leading to long-term structural issues.
- Water Stains on Ceilings or Walls – Water stains or discoloration on your ceilings and walls are often signs of a roof leak. Even if the leak appears small, it could be the result of more extensive damage beneath the roof’s surface. Water stains may also be accompanied by peeling paint or bubbling plaster, indicating prolonged moisture exposure.
- Damaged or Missing Vent Boots – Roof vent boots are designed to seal around the base of plumbing vents. Over time, exposure to the elements can cause the rubber material to crack or the metal to corrode. If a vent boot is compromised, it can allow water to enter through the roof and into the attic or walls.
- Loose or Missing Shingles – If you see shingles that are missing or appear loose, that’s a clear sign that the roof’s protective barrier has been compromised. Strong winds, heavy rain, and fluctuating temperatures can cause shingles to lift or become dislodged. Missing shingles expose the roof underlayment, increasing the risk of leaks and structural damage.
As always, if you’re simply not sure, it’s better to be safe than to be sorry. Roof inspections are not nearly as expensive as a roof replacement, and even less expensive than water damage in your home. In many cases, we can also find issues that can be easily addressed with a small repair, while roofing issues that are unaddressed tend to become much bigger issues very quickly.
Additional Signs of Roof Issues from Inside the Home
While most roof problems start on the outside, you can also spot early warning signs of trouble from inside your home. After inspecting the roof’s exterior, it’s important to check the attic and interior ceilings for additional clues.
- Indoor Pest Problems Around the Roof – Inspecting your roof doesn’t actually start from your roof. It starts from inside of your property. Are you experiencing any unexplained pest issues that look like they’re coming from the direction of your roof or attic? Like spider webs that shouldn’t be there, or bugs that seem to be dropping from ceiling? Those are early warning signs that there are small holes. These pests can get into places that even rain can’t get into, so they’re a quick warning sign that your roof has issues.
- Attic Moisture or Mold Growth – If you notice damp insulation, mold, or a musty smell in your attic, it could mean that moisture is penetrating through the roof. Poor ventilation can also cause condensation to form, creating the perfect environment for mold and mildew to thrive. Over time, this moisture can lead to wood rot and damage to the roof’s support structure.
- Light Coming Through the Roof – Go into your attic during daylight hours and check for any areas where sunlight is shining through. If you can see light coming through the roof boards, it means that there are gaps or holes in the roof that need to be sealed. Even small gaps can allow rain and pests to enter, leading to bigger issues down the line.
- Increased Energy Bills – If your heating and cooling costs have suddenly increased without any other obvious explanation, your roof could be to blame. Poor insulation, missing shingles, and gaps in the roof can allow warm or cool air to escape, making your HVAC system work harder to maintain a consistent indoor temperature.
You don’t even need to step foot on your roof to see if these issues are there. If you see unexplained issues, and you have not had an inspection to your roof in a while, it is always a good idea to reach out to a professional NYC roofer to help.
When It’s Time to Act
If you notice any of the signs listed above, it’s important to address the problem sooner rather than later. Small roofing issues can quickly escalate into major structural problems if left untreated. Water damage, mold growth, and compromised insulation are not only costly to fix but can also affect the health and comfort of your home.
But you don’t need to worry about a new roof or any experience service right away. Instead, call for an inspection. It’s always a good idea to have your roof inspected once a year, and at minimum when you find that you have something that concerns you. Often times, a simple repair may be all that’s needed, and your mind can be at ease.
At Christian Construction, we specialize in identifying and resolving all types of roofing issues. Our team is trained to handle everything from minor repairs to full roof replacements, ensuring that your home is protected from the elements year-round. We are also available for services like gutter cleaning and roof cleaning, and you can save money if you consider bundling them altogether with your roof inspection to ensure that your property is looking functioning properly.
Why Choose Christian Construction for Your Roof Inspection and Repairs?
When it comes to roofing, experience matters. At Christian Construction, we have years of expertise in roof repair, maintenance, and installation. Our team knows how to spot the early warning signs of roof damage and can provide targeted solutions to prevent further issues.
- Experienced and Licensed Contractors – Our team is fully licensed and insured, with extensive training in residential and commercial roofing.
- High-Quality Materials – We use only the best roofing materials, ensuring that your roof lasts for years to come.
- Comprehensive Inspections – We don’t just treat the symptoms—we get to the root of the problem to prevent future damage.
- Fast and Reliable Service – We understand that roof problems can’t wait. Our team responds quickly to address your roofing needs.
We’re also honest, and one of the few companies more than happy to take on projects both large and small. We are not only roofers – we are full service contractors, and we know that if we do a good job on any project, we can earn your business on other work you need completed. That is why we always do our best and offer great prices each and every time.
Get Help with Your Roof Today
If you’ve spotted any of the warning signs listed above, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. A quick call to Christian Construction can save you time, money, and stress by addressing roof issues before they become major repairs.
Give us a call to schedule a professional roof inspection. Our Staten Island roofing experts will provide a thorough evaluation of your roof’s condition and recommend the best course of action. Whether you need a simple repair or a full roof replacement, Christian Construction is here to help.
