When was the last time you really looked at your roof? Most people don’t think much about it until something goes wrong. But over time, weather and age can slowly damage your roof without you noticing.
If left unchecked, this issue can cause leaks, structural damage, and even mold growth inside your home. That’s why it’s important to catch the warning signs early and take action before the damage gets worse. If you’re not sure what to look for, here are some signs that your roof might need repointing right away.
Cracks in the Mortar: Call a Roofing Contractor Now
If you see cracks in the mortar between your roof tiles, it’s a strong sign that your roof might be in trouble. Mortar doesn’t last forever. Sun, rain, wind, and temperature changes slowly cause it to break down.
When this happens, ridge tiles can come loose and water can get in. The sooner you notice cracks, the better. That’s when it’s time to call a trusted roofing contractor as soon as possible. A professional can safely assess the damage, tell you if it’s time for repointing, and make sure your roof stays secure and watertight.
Loose or Missing Ridge Tiles: Time for Roof Repointing
If you notice ridge tiles that look loose or have already fallen off, that’s a red flag. These tiles sit at the top of your roof and are held in place by pointing. When the pointing wears down, the tiles can shift or come off completely.
Not only does this look bad, but it also puts your home at risk of water damage. In this case, your roof likely needs roof repointing to fix the issue. Repointing replaces the damaged mortar with fresh material to hold everything firmly in place.
Water Leaks in the Ceiling
Have you noticed water stains or small leaks in your ceiling? That could be a direct result of damaged roof pointing. When water seeps through the gaps where mortar used to be, it can drip down into your ceiling or walls.
This not only ruins paint and drywall but also creates the perfect conditions for mold to grow. If you spot any water inside your home, especially after it rains, don’t ignore it. A professional inspection can quickly reveal whether the pointing is to blame and help you take care of it before the damage spreads.
Dust or Crumbles in the Gutter
Your gutters are a great place to look for signs of roof trouble. If you see small pieces of mortar or roof debris collecting in them, it could mean the pointing on your roof is breaking apart. As the mortar gets weaker, it crumbles and washes down with the rain.
This debris might seem harmless at first, but it’s a clear warning that the pointing is failing. If left alone, you’ll end up with larger problems like shifting tiles or roof leaks. Cleaning your gutters regularly gives you a chance to spot this sign early.
Visible Gaps Between Tiles
Take a moment to look up at your roof from the ground. Do you see any noticeable gaps between tiles—especially along the ridge line? These gaps could be caused by old or missing mortar. When the pointing wears away, tiles may slowly shift, leaving spaces that weren’t there before.
This is more than just a cosmetic problem. Gaps allow water, wind, and pests to enter your roof space. If you spot these gaps, it’s a strong clue that your roof is ready for repointing.
