Your home has a lot of bells and whistles, but at its core it still has a few essential components at its core. One of the most important parts of the structure is clearly your roof. It’s something that keeps you safe, supports your structure, and makes sure the rest of the home is not exposed to the elements. You obviously don’t want anything to happen to it.

The good news is that your homeowners insurance will often cover damage to your roof. Still, it’s not an unlimited source of financial support against any accident. Therefore, you still have to do all you can to prevent roof damage. Here are five key danger signs to look for on your roof.

#1: Missing Shingles

One of the clearest signals that your roof has issues is damaged or missing shingling. You can often spot these from the ground easily. Whenever a shingle is missing or lost, it creates a pathway for water, debris or pests to enter the home. The longer you neglect these issues, the worse they will become, and the more you might have to pay for your repairs.

#2: Discoloration

If you notice discoloration or vegetation growth on your roof, then this will likely be a sign of developing issues like mold and mildew. As these substances build up on the roof, they can eventually cause much more extensive damage. It’s critical to enlist professional help to make necessary repairs.

#3: Buckling and Curling

Over the years, your roof will take a beating. However, it’s up to you to recognize when this wear & tear has gone too far. Eventually, shingles will wear out, and eventually they might buckle. Buckling occurs when shingles peel back and curl up, which exposes areas that are supposed to be sealed to the elements. Each shingle must be flat against the surface of the roof. This helps ensure that debris, water and snow wash away instead of pooling on the roof.

#4: Granules

Do you notice black debris when you clean out your gutters? If you go up on the roof, do you come down with smudges on your knees? If so, this is a sign that the granules that coat your roof are wearing away. As they do, the roof will become less tightly sealed, and your risk of roof damage will increase.

#5: Damaged Flashing

Your roof’s flashing is a metal strip that sits along your roof’s eaves. It is one of the key materials that will keep the home waterproof. Therefore, if you notice exposed or damaged flashing, then it is time to call a repairman.

In most cases, home insurance will not cover losses from roof neglect or lack of maintenance. However, by maintaining your roof, you can reduce the chances that a claim will be denied when a problem does occur.

If you have questions about how home insurance covers roof repairs, talk to one of our committed agents today.