Roof leaks can lead to costly repairs and cause a major inconvenience, so spotting roof damage before it turns into a leak or other problem can save you thousands. The roofing specialists at Columbia Roofing in Elkridge, MD, have been helping residents catch potentially costly roof damage for more than 30 years. They say finding the source of a leak can be a challenge, as the spot where a roof leaks indoors rarely indicates the exact location of the leak. That’s because water can enter your roof and travel before soaking into the ceiling.

Identifying roof damage before it becomes obvious is one of the best ways to prevent repairs. Follow these tips for spotting roof damage to ensure minor leaks don’t become costly problems.

Perform an Outdoor Inspection

Routinely performing a visual inspection of your roof can help you notice such problems as missing and damaged shingles, especially after severe weather. If you notice curling, buckled, missing, or split shingles, call a professional roofer to perform a more thorough inspection as soon as possible. Look at your chimney, gutters, and roof flashing for tears, missing bricks, and sagging parts, too.

Perform an Indoor Inspection

From time to time, it’s a good idea to take a peek in your attic where damp spots, mold or mildew, and leaks can indicate roof damage. Be sure to look for brown, gray, or yellow stains on the ceiling in all of your rooms. If you find any of these things, it’s time to call a roofing company.

Get an Annual Inspection

Roofing companies such as Columbia Roofing recommend having your roof inspected by an expert once a year. A roofer can climb onto your roof and find potential problems before they become costly roof repairs.

If you fear your roof might have experienced damage, call Columbia Roofing at (410) 479-6100. You can also visit their website for more information and to learn more about their services.