Your Roof’s Health: A Guide for San Antonio & Hill Country Homeowners
As a homeowner in Bulverde, San Antonio, or the beautiful Texas Hill Country, you know that our unique climate can be tough on your home. From scorching summers to severe thunderstorms and occasional hail, your roof is the first line of defense against the elements. But how do you know if it’s holding up without climbing a ladder?
This guide, from your trusted local experts at Eternal Roofing, will help you identify the common signs of roof damage you can see from the safety of your own yard. Knowing what to look for can save you a lot of trouble and expense down the road.
The Three Key Signs of Roof Damage to Spot From the Ground
At Eternal Roofing, we believe in being proactive. A quick visual inspection from the ground can reveal a lot about the health of your roof. Here are the three most common indicators that it might be time to call a professional:
1. Missing or Damaged Shingles
This is the most obvious sign of a problem. After a strong storm, take a walk around your home. If you see shingles lying in your yard or on your driveway, it’s a clear indication that your roof has sustained wind damage. High winds can lift and tear off shingles, leaving the underlying structure exposed to the next rainfall.
But it’s not just about missing shingles. Look for any that are out of place – curled up, bent, or even starting to slide down the roof. These are all signs of a compromised roof system. A few missing shingles might seem minor, but they create a direct pathway for water to seep in, leading to leaks, rot, and serious structural damage.
2. Granule Loss and Granules in Gutters
Have you ever noticed what looks like coarse, black sand on your driveway or in your gutters? Those are asphalt shingle granules. Granules are a crucial component of your shingles, providing protection from UV rays and fire. Over time, as a roof ages, these granules naturally wear away.
If you’re seeing a significant amount of granule loss, it’s a strong indicator that your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan. However, a major storm with hail can also knock a large number of granules loose in a short amount of time, even on a relatively new roof. Either way, an excessive amount of granules is a sign that the protective layer of your shingles is gone, leaving your roof vulnerable.
3. Curling or Cupping Shingles
This is a classic sign of an aging or deteriorating roof. Shingles are designed to lie flat and create a tight, uniform surface. As they age, the sun’s heat can cause the asphalt to dry out. This makes the shingles brittle and they can begin to curl up at the edges (curling) or cup in the middle (cupping).
Curling shingles are a particularly dangerous sign. This is where the corners of the shingles lift, making them a prime target for wind to get underneath and tear them off. Once the adhesive seal is broken, they are no longer providing the level of protection they were designed for. A roof with widespread curling or cupping shingles is at high risk for leaks and should be inspected immediately.
Why Choose a Professional for Your Roof Inspection?
While a ground-level inspection is a great first step, it can’t tell you the full story. A professional roof inspection by a local, trusted company like Eternal Roofing is essential for a thorough assessment. We have the experience and training to identify subtle damage that might not be visible from the ground, such as:
- Hail Impact Damage: Hail can cause tiny, hard-to-see indentations or cracks in shingles that can lead to leaks over time.
- Flashing and Vent Issues: The areas around your chimney, vents, and valleys are common points of failure.
- Decking and Structural Problems: Only a professional can determine if your roof decking has rotted or if there are other structural issues.
Eternal Roofing: Your Local Experts in Bulverde, San Antonio, and the Texas Hill Country
When it comes to your home, you need a contractor you can trust. At Eternal Roofing, we are not storm chasers; we are a part of the Bulverde and San Antonio communities. We have built our reputation on the principles of Expertise, Experience, Accountability, and Trust:
- Expertise: Our team is highly trained and experienced in all aspects of roofing, from asphalt shingles to metal roofs. We understand the specific challenges of the Texas climate and provide solutions that last.
- Experience: We have a proven track record of helping homeowners just like you in Bulverde, Spring Branch, San Antonio, and the surrounding Hill Country areas. Our knowledge is rooted in years of hands-on work and satisfied customers.
- Accountability: We take ownership of every project. We provide clear, honest estimates, and our work is backed by our commitment to quality. You can count on us to be there from the initial inspection to the final nail.
- Trust: Our goal is to be your community’s full-service roofing and construction partner. We pride ourselves on being professional, dependable, and transparent in all our dealings. We’ll never pressure you into a service you don’t need.
If you’re seeing any of the signs mentioned above, or if you just haven’t had your roof inspected in a while, don’t wait for a small problem to become a major headache.
Ready to get started? Give us a call at (830) 251-5673 to schedule your free, no-obligation roof inspection. We are dedicated to protecting your home with quality craftsmanship and a neighborly approach.
