Do you have leaks in your attic?

After a strong storm or wind-driven rain, take a look in the attic for signs of leaking.

Have you noticed exterior or interior paint that is blistering or peeling?

When paint starts to peel off, the cause is likely trapped moisture in the house due to excessive temperature or high humidity from poor attic ventilation. The air in the attic needs to flow freely from the soffit to the ridge to reduce humidity. Make sure there is a vent in areas such as the kitchen or bathroom. Dryers should vent outside.

Are there stains on interior ceilings and walls; mold or mildew growth?

If you see stains or, even worse, mold growth inside your home, it may be caused by inadequate or faulty shingle underlayment that is allowing water to seep into the house. Inadequate ventilation could also be the culprit, which causes excessive moisture— conditions in which mold and mildew thrive.

Do you see missing, cracked, or curled shingles?

If you notice that your shingles are dry or practically break when touched, that means they have reached the end of their useful life and it’s time to invest in a new roof.

Are dark, “dirty-looking” areas visible on your roof?

This could mean your roof has vegetation, fungus, mold, or algae growth, or that the shingles’ protective granules have been lost. This doesn’t mean you need to replace your roof, but these stains can reduce curb appeal. Cleaning the shingles is an option, but that could shorten their life.