Were you aware that Phoenix gets around eight inches of rain per year, according to WorldClimate?
While this doesn’t seem like a lot, your roof does a lot of work to keep your living environment safe from the elements.
Roof sheathing is a critical part of any roof. It’s a layer of plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) that supports the shingles or tiles.
Over time, the sheathing can weaken or get damaged, and it’s important to know when to replace roof sheathing.
Read on for the top signs that your roof sheathing may be in trouble.
Sagging Roof
A sagging roof always spells out trouble because it’s one of the most obvious signs that your roof sheathing may need to be replaced.
Roof sheathing provides structural support, and when it becomes weak due to moisture or rot, the roof may start to sag.
This sagging happens when the sheathing can no longer hold up the weight of the shingles or tiles.
Moisture is often the main cause of a sagging roof.
Water can seep into the sheathing and cause it to rot, weakening the entire roof structure.
If you notice any sagging areas, it’s important to get the roof inspected right away to prevent further damage.
Water Stains on the Ceiling
Water stains or any spots that seem damp on your ceiling are troubling signs of roof damage, and they may indicate damaged roof sheathing.
Roof sheathing acts as a barrier between the outside elements and your home’s interior.
When the sheathing is damaged, water can pass through the shingles or tiles and eventually make its way into your home.
If you see water stains, it’s crucial to act quickly.
The longer the moisture is allowed to sit on your roof, the more havoc it can create.
Over time, this can lead to rotting sheathing, mold growth, and other serious structural roof damage.
Mold or Mildew Growth in the Attic
Mold or mildew in the attic is a strong indicator that there may be water damage to your roof sheathing.
Mold loves to flourish in damp environments, and if your attic seems like mold or mildew could be present, it’s likely due to moisture that has gotten through the roof sheathing.
Over time, this moisture can weaken the sheathing, causing it to rot.
If you find mold in the attic, it’s essential to check for roof leaks or damaged sheathing.
Mold can also pose health risks, so it’s imperative to fix the problem quickly to get your roof back in top shape and prevent further damage to your health.
Visible Damage to Shingles or Roof Surface
Another sign that your roof sheathing may need to be replaced is visible damage to your shingles or the surface of your roof.
Missing, cracked, or broken shingles expose the roof sheathing to the elements.
When the sheathing is no longer protected by shingles, it can easily become waterlogged and start to deteriorate.
Whenever you notice any visible damage to the roof surface, inspect the area underneath for signs of weakened or rotting sheathing.
It’s important to address any visible damage quickly to prevent further deterioration.
Increased Energy Bills
A sudden and unexpected surge in your energy bills can also point to issues with your roof sheathing.
When roof sheathing becomes compromised, it can affect the insulation of your home.
Damaged sheathing allows air to escape or enter, making it harder to regulate the temperature inside.
When this happens, your HVAC system faces a lot of pressure to keep up, which increases your energy costs.
Replacing damaged sheathing can help restore proper insulation and lower your energy bills.
Anyone who’s baffled by an increase in their energy consumption shouldn’t forget to get their roof inspected for possible damage.
Soft Spots or Punctures on the Roof
Soft spots or areas of the roof that feel spongy when walked on are clear signs of rotting roof sheathing.
Healthy sheathing should be strong and firm, but when it starts to rot, it loses its integrity.
If you step on a soft spot or feel that part of the roof is caving in slightly, the sheathing beneath is likely damaged.
When you find soft spots on your roof, it’s crucial to address them immediately.
Left unchecked, these areas can grow larger and lead to more extensive damage, including a roof collapse.
Leaks in the Attic After Rain
If you notice leaks in your attic after a rainstorm, it’s a sign that the roof sheathing may be damaged.
Leaks happen when water finds its way through damaged shingles and sheathing.
As the seasons continue to change, repeated exposure to moisture can cause the sheathing to rot, which makes the problem worse.
Water leaks in the attic can also lead to wood rot, interior damage, mold growth, and other pesky issues.
Don’t put off a roof inspection to check the sheathing and address any damage right away if leaks keep occurring after rain.
Sheathing Replacement Cost
One of the greatest roof repair tips is to call an expert right away if you’re experiencing any one of these issues.
Replacing your roof sheathing could be exactly what you need.
The cost of replacing roof sheathing can change based on these factors:
- The size of your roof
- The type of roof material used
- The extent of the damage
A reasonable price can range from $1,500 to $5,000 for roof sheathing installation or replacement, which includes both the materials and labor costs.
Plywood is generally more expensive than OSB, but both are commonly used materials for roof sheathing.
You can always call several roofing companies to get local estimates for the job.
Now You Know When to Replace Roof Sheathing
Knowing when to replace roof sheathing can save you a lot of trouble and money down the line.
Paying attention to this roof maintenance guide will keep your home and family safe for many years to come.
Are you looking for a talented and reliable roofing company in Phoenix?
Contact JLC Roofing so we can start discussing your project.
We’ve been helping Phoenix homeowners like you for over 30 years.
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Trust our experienced team to provide top-quality roofing services for your home. From repairs to replacements, we ensure your roof is in the best hands.
Contact Us Today at (623) 878-9832 or request a free estimate online for your roofing needs!
