What to Look for When Assessing Your Roof for Damage: A Guide for Central Ohio Homeowners

April 11, 2025

As a homeowner in Central Ohio, your roof faces a year-round barrage of weather — from heavy snowfall and ice in the winter to intense heat and thunderstorms in the summer. Over time, even the best roofing systems can show signs of wear and tear. Knowing how to spot potential issues early can help you prevent costly repairs down the line.

One common but often overlooked sign of roof damage is streaking or discoloration on your shingles, which may indicate a loss of granulation. But that’s just one red flag among many. In this post, we’ll walk you through the key things to look for when assessing your roof for damage.

1. Granule Loss and Shingle Streaking

Shingles are coated with tiny granules that help protect them from the sun’s UV rays and provide fire resistance. Over time, these granules can wear away due to age, severe weather, or poor ventilation.

If you notice dark streaks running down your shingles, it might not just be cosmetic. While sometimes these streaks are caused by algae growth, they can also signal that the granules are thinning or washing away. Granule loss weakens the shingle and makes it more susceptible to cracking, curling, or water infiltration.

How to check:
Look for excessive granules in your gutters or at the base of your downspouts. This is often the first sign that shingles are deteriorating. You may also notice smooth, shiny patches on your shingles — another indicator that granules have worn off.

You can stand at the front or side of your property to assess if your roof is showing signs of algae streaking and loss of granulation.

2. Missing or Damaged Shingles

Strong winds and storms are common in our region and can easily tear shingles loose or cause them to crack, curl, or buckle. Missing shingles expose the underlayment — and eventually your roof deck — to water damage.

How to check:
After a storm, walk around your property and visually inspect your roof from the ground. Use binoculars if necessary. Look for areas that appear uneven or have gaps. Also, keep an eye out for shingles on your lawn or around your property.

3. Sagging or Uneven Roof Lines

A sagging roofline could be a serious sign of structural issues. This might be due to prolonged water damage, poor ventilation in the attic, or failing roofing materials. If left unaddressed, it could lead to roof collapse.

How to check:
Step back and look at your roof from a distance. A healthy roof should have straight lines and a uniform appearance. Any noticeable dips or waves warrant a professional inspection.

4. Moss and Algae Growth

Central Ohio’s climate can be humid enough to allow moss, algae, and even lichen to grow on your roof. While moss may look harmless, it holds moisture against the shingles, which can lead to rot and decay.

How to check:
Look for green or dark patches forming in shaded areas of the roof. If moss appears thick or has started to lift the shingles, it’s time to act.

When in Doubt, Call a Professional

We understand that not everyone is comfortable climbing a ladder to inspect their roof — and that’s okay! Regular, professional roof inspections can catch small issues before they turn into big headaches. At RoofX, we offer free roof assessments to Central Ohio homeowners and can give you honest feedback on the condition of your roof.

Whether it’s granule loss, storm damage, or signs of aging, being proactive about your roof’s condition can save you money and stress in the long run. If you’re noticing any of the signs mentioned above — or just want peace of mind — give us a call today at 937-284-4050.