Can a Roof be Damaged Even if it's Not Leaking?

A roof can be damaged even if it's not leaking. Roof damage doesn't always result in immediate water leakage, but damage from severe weather, and typical wear and tear can still impact the structural integrity and longevity of your roof. And, if left unaddressed for too long, roof damage can lead to a leaky roof.

Is My Roof Damaged Even Though It Doesn’t Leak?

There are many signs your roof may be damaged. A roof leak is certainly a telltale sign, but if your roof is not leaking, these other signs indicate that it’s damaged and could potentially lead to leaks. 

Missing Shingles

Since there is another protective layer (underlayment) between the shingle and the roof deck you will not initially see leaks when your shingle is missing. However; it is important to replace missing shingles right away because water can penetrate through the underlayment after several months of rainy or snowy weather. 

Chipped or Cracked Shingles

Broken shingles will typically not cause your roof to leak immediately. However, if damaged shingles are not addressed right away they can allow water to penetrate in over time. 

Damaged Flashing

The number one cause of roof leaks is damaged flashing. Flashing is made of metal, usually steel, and is strategically placed around features on a roof like chimneys, vents, and skylights. Flashing directs water away from these areas, so if flashing is damaged, leaking will eventually occur. 

Moss or Algae

If you live in a humid climate and have a lot of shade trees near your roof, look for patches of moss or algae. These fungi thrive in damp, shady conditions, and can quickly take hold if shingles are cracked or missing. As they break shingles down, leaks are likely to result, so it’s important to contact a roofing contractor if you see moss or algae on your roof.

The Importance of Fixing Broken or Detached Gutters

While gutters may not seem like an actual part of your roof, they play an important part in preventing leaks. Water needs to be able to roll off of the roof and directly into the gutter, where it can then flow into downspouts and away from your home. If a gutter is detached or broken, this process gets interrupted and you will have water backed up against the edges of your roof — leading to major leaks and roof damage. Besides that, broken gutters can also cause water to pool against the foundation of your home and leak into your basement. This is why if you’re asking “Is my roof damaged?” you should also be asking “Are my gutters damaged?” 

A reputable roofing contractor will always inspect your gutters to make sure they are doing all they can to prevent roof leaks.

Do All Roofs Eventually Leak?

Even with proper maintenance and repairs, most roofs will deteriorate as they age, which makes them susceptible to leaks. The lifespan of a roof depends on various factors, including the type of roofing material, the quality of installation, regional climate conditions, and the level of upkeep the homeowner has put in over the years. 

If you have an Honest Abe Roof, you have the best workmanship and materials to prevent leaks – and a guaranteed roof that will last a lifetime. 

Your Roof Could be Damaged Even Though It Doesn’t Leak

The best way to tell if your roof has damage is to have it inspected by a reputable roofing company. Call Honest Abe to schedule an appointment and we will be totally honest about our inspection results.