When you notice damage to your roofing shingles, you should call a roofing expert as soon as possible. They will patch up the damage to avoid water leaks that may cause extensive deterioration to your home's interior. That said, as a new homeowner, you may not know the key indicators of a roof that needs expert attention. So, you must seek immediate help if you notice any of the issues mentioned below.

The Chimney Seals Are Damaged

After installing the chimney or skylight, a residential roofing contractor seals the area with caulking to prevent water leaks. But with age and exposure to elements, the caulking will start to crack and separate. Hence, if you notice damage around the chimney, call your roofer to check the area and surrounding shingles. Given the extent of the damage, the expert will advise on the need for repairs. That said, you may fail to notice damage from a visual inspection, but water leaks from the area around the chimney. In such a case, you need immediate roof repair to avoid damage to your shingles and internal roof structure.

Your Energy Cost Has Been Rising

If you are receiving a rising energy bill without a change in usage, chances are your roof is to blame. Note that your roof may lack adequate insulation due to damaged shingles that allow conditioned air to escape. This means you'll have to run your HVAC unit more than necessary, increasing your energy bills. Hence, you must call a residential roof repair expert to check and repair any damage to the roofing material. 

A Sagging Appearance

You should never ignore a sagging roof. In this case, seeking expert help is crucial. You must note that sagging shingles indicate your roof's supporting structures, such as trusses, are rotting. More so, this is likely when your shingles crack or go missing, which allows water to leak inside your home. After a thorough inspection, the contractor will recommend repairs to the internal structure and affected shingles to prevent total roof failure. 

You Notice Moss Growth

You must seek immediate repairs if you notice moss growing on your asphalt roof. Remember that if you don't address the moss problem on time, the granules on asphalt shingles will start to wear off. Eventually, you'll need new roofing material to guarantee a safe and habitable home. In most cases, you are likely to notice moss growing in areas covered by hanging branches. So, in addition to repairs, a roofing expert will suggest tree trimming to eliminate moss growth in the future. 

On the first sign of damage to your asphalt shingles, you should call a residential roof expert to address it as quickly as possible. This will save you from dealing with costly replacements. For more information, contact a company like Bowie Siding & Roofing.