When your roof has small leaks or a few loose shingles, a roofing company can provide spot repairs to restore the structure to its full function. However, more widespread problems can cause the roof to collapse, damaging the rest of the structure and creating a dangerous situation for the home’s interior. Here are a few telltale signs that roof damage is affecting the integrity of your home and you need a roof replacement.

How to Tell If Your Roof Is Collapsing

1. Sagging

This is the number one sign of a structural problem because it only happens when the underlying supports of the roof are weakened or damaged. Stand outside the house and look up at the roof. If you notice any areas that seem crooked or bowed, or if the top ridge of the roof is bent or dipping, stay out of the house until you can get a professional assessment. A sagging structure will likely call for immediate roof replacement.

2. Shifting Building Structure

A roof is part of a larger structure that runs through the house, and sometimes you can see signs of a change by looking at the walls. Inspect the inside of your home for cracks that run horizontally or diagonally across a wall, multiple vertical parallel cracks, or cracks wider than 1/16 of an inch.

These usually indicate damage to the structure of the house, which can mean that the roof has lost vital support. Check for doors and windows that stick in their frames or that won’t close. This occurs when the material of the wall has shifted or swollen, which can also hint to structural problems.

3. Rafter & Decking Damage

The rafters are the main support system for a roof, and the decking is the flat surface that lies across them, providing a base for your roof shingles. You can often view these structures by going into the attic or crawlspace. If you can see them, check for signs of warping, as well as bends, ripples, breaks, splintering, or softening and discoloration from wood rot.

These could indicate that the beams are weakened and the roof structure is compromised. The more extensive the damage, the more urgently you need a roof replacement. While these problems can develop over time, they can also come on suddenly following strong weather or if something falls on the roof. Inspect your home for damage after extreme weather events.

If you’ve noticed signs your roof may be near collapse, trust the team at BDW Roofing for your roof replacement. These professionals are based in Mount Kisco, NY, and have been serving Westchester and Putnam counties for over 30 years. This locally owned and operated contractor offers both residential and commercial services. They’re licensed and insured to install and repair a wide range of materials, including flat roof systems. To discuss a roof replacement with a friendly staff member, call (914) 218-8820.