Every area has its own roofing challenges. Here in Belleville, Illinois, our roofs deal with everything from hail storms and high winds to extreme temperature swings throughout the year.
After inspecting and replacing roofs across Belleville and the Metro East for more than 20 years, we’ve noticed a few issues that show up again and again. If you’re a homeowner, knowing what to watch for can help you catch problems early and potentially avoid more expensive repairs down the road.
1. Missing or Lifted Shingles After Wind Storms
One of the most common issues we see is wind damage.
Strong storms can loosen shingles, break the seal holding them down, or remove them completely. Sometimes homeowners don’t even realize damage occurred because the missing shingles aren’t visible from the ground.
Signs to watch for include:
- Shingles in your yard
- Exposed nail heads
- Uneven-looking roof sections
- Water stains appearing after storms
Even a single missing shingle can allow water to work its way into the roofing system.
2. Roof Leaks Around Flashing
Flashing is the metal material installed around chimneys, walls, skylights, and roof penetrations.
Over time, flashing can separate, rust, or become damaged during severe weather. When that happens, water often finds its way into the home.
Many homeowners assume they need an entire roof replacement when they discover a leak, but sometimes the issue is isolated to damaged flashing that can be repaired.
3. Poor Attic Ventilation
Ventilation problems are surprisingly common in Southern Illinois.
A poorly ventilated attic can trap heat and moisture, which may contribute to:
- Higher energy bills
- Premature shingle aging
- Mold and mildew concerns
- Excessive attic temperatures
During roof inspections, we frequently find homes that have insufficient intake or exhaust ventilation for the size of the roof.
4. Hail Damage That Isn’t Visible From the Ground
Not all hail damage is obvious.
We’ve inspected many Belleville-area roofs where homeowners had no idea damage existed until an inspection revealed bruising, granule loss, or impact marks.
After significant hail events, it’s a good idea to have your roof professionally inspected, even if you don’t notice immediate leaks.
Early detection can help prevent future problems and may be important if insurance claims are involved.
5. Aging Roof Components
Sometimes the shingles aren’t the problem.
Roofing systems include multiple components such as:
- Pipe boots
- Ridge vents
- Flashing
- Sealants
- Underlayment
As roofs age, these components can wear out before the shingles themselves. We’ve seen many leaks caused by a failed pipe boot rather than the roofing material.
Regular inspections can help identify these issues before they become larger repairs.
When Should You Schedule a Roof Inspection?
If your roof is more than 10 years old, has recently experienced severe weather, or you’re noticing signs of wear, scheduling an inspection can provide peace of mind.
At Barringer Brothers Roofing, we inspect roofs throughout Belleville, O’Fallon, Shiloh, Swansea, Fairview Heights, and surrounding Metro East communities. Our goal is to give homeowners honest information about the condition of their roof so they can make informed decisions.
Protect Your Home With a Professional Roof Inspection
Every roof is different, but the problems above are some of the most common issues we encounter throughout Belleville and the surrounding Metro East area.
If you have concerns about your roof or simply want to know its current condition, Barringer Brothers Roofing is here to help. Call (618) 703-3036 or contact us online to schedule your roof inspection.
