Signs of a Damaged Roof Sheathing

You probably do not think about your roof sheathing a lot. After all, you do not see it. You cannot tell if it is damaged just by looking. However, damaged sheathing can lead to serious problems, including roof rot.

What Is Roof Sheathing?

Roof sheathing is the protective layer between your roof’s cover and your home. For most residential roofs, the sheathing is plywood. The plywood provides a surface to hold the roofing, which is usually shingles or tiles. It also serves as an extra layer of protection. In a secure roof, the sheathing remains dry.

How Does Sheathing Get Damaged?

If there is a leak in the roof’s surface, the sheathing can get damaged. Long term exposure to moisture can weaken the surface.
However, sheathing can get wet under normal circumstances. When it is exposed to excess moisture, it should dry out. It is only prolonged exposure that should cause a problem.

When sheathing faces too much moisture, it cannot dry out. That can lead to

• Severe damage
• Mold
• Mildew
• Leaks
• Failing Roof Structure

How Serious Is a Damaged Sheathing?

You should notice signs of a damaged sheathing before the problem becomes catastrophic. However, if you ignore those signs, the problems can get very serious. A damaged sheathing compromises the integrity of the roof and can eventually lead to roof collapse.

Signs the Sheathing Is Damaged

• Leaks. If you have a roof leak, your sheathing may be damaged. More importantly, if you notice a leak and do not fix it, the sheathing will get damaged.
• Sags. If your ceiling is sagging, that is a sign that your roof is compromised. It means that the roofing materials are either broken or have bent or bowed.
• Mold and Mildew. If you notice mold or mildew on your ceiling, it could be a sign that it has come through from the roof’s sheathing. It can also be due to moisture inside the home.
• Missing Shingles or Tiles. If you can visually see that you are missing the top protective layers or your roof, it means the sheathing is vulnerable.

If you notice signs of damage, contact Carl’s and we can send one of our roofers to check your roof. We can let you know if the sheathing is damaged and discuss options for repair or replacement.