New Jersey exteriors take freeze-thaw cycles, wind-driven rain and summer heat. Most failures announce themselves before they get expensive, if you know where to look.
From the ground, look for
- Shingles that are curled, cracked, missing or shedding granules
- Sagging rooflines or uneven planes
- Staining on siding below roof edges or around windows
- Siding that is cupping, loose, or soft to the touch
- Gaps or failed caulking at trim, corners and penetrations
- Gutters pulling away, overflowing, or full of shingle granules
Inside the house
Ceiling stains, damp attic sheathing, daylight visible at the roof deck and a musty smell after heavy rain all point outward. Interior evidence usually means water has been getting in for a while.
Why timing matters
Small openings in a roof or wall assembly get worse with each freeze-thaw cycle. Addressing them before winter is generally simpler than repairing water damage after it happens.
When to get it looked at
If you spot more than one of the signs above, or if anything shows up inside, have someone review the exterior and tell you plainly whether it's a repair or a replacement.