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Roofing problems make themselves known in the form of leaks and drips. Repair leaky roofs before ceilings and walls are damaged; better yet, check your roof at least once a year before the storm season (and after a major storm, if necessary). Make your repairs when the weather is clear.
High winds can tear off shingles, particularly if they’ve become brittle with age. Ice and snow can cause shingles to crack, as can hot sun and heavy rain.
Check your roof regularly for bald spots, cracked or curled shingles, or an absence of mineral granules, usually exhibited by an accumulation in your gutters. Bend any questionable shingles back to see if they have some give. If they crumble easily or appear gray and bloated, they may need replacing.
Replace existing shingles with any that remain from the original roof installation or buy new ones of the same type, color, and size if possible. Don’t remove damaged shingles from ridges—instead, nail each corner of the existing shingle in place and cover with a new one.
Shingle Maintenance
Roofing cement can work wonders on an asphalt-shingle roof. If shingles are cracked or beginning to tear, seal the cracked or torn areas with roofing cement. Also use roofing cement to press torn or curled shingles into place and to cover exposed nail heads.
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