Roof noises can be harmless or an early warning. Here is what causes them, what cracking, banging, whistling, and scratching usually mean, and when to have your roof inspected.
As a professional roofer, I know that strange noises coming from your roof can be a cause for concern. While some noises may be harmless, others can be an indication of underlying problems that require immediate attention. Below we cover what causes roof noise, what specific sounds usually mean, and when it is worth having someone take a look.
The good news is that there are perfectly normal reasons for your roof to make noise.
Many of the noises you hear are the result of thermal changes in your roof. An asphalt shingle roof can get up to 170 degrees on a hot summer day, as the dark shingles absorb and store heat. This heat gets transferred to the decking and frame of your home. Once night comes, the house then cools. The metal and wood in your home's construction expands and contracts over time as these temperature swings come and go. Your home should be constructed to take this into consideration, with gaps and expansion joints built in to allow for this shifting without causing damage.
Older homes are notorious for unidentified sounds. Popping and creaking noises from your roof and floors can be expected and are likely due to the age of the home. Your roof may also be more subject to the most extreme days of summer and winter, making more of those noises from temperature change.
When you first turn on your heating for the winter or your air conditioning system in the summer, you may hear knocking sounds. These are typically the result of a similar thermal reaction in the air ducts throughout the home.
One of the most common noises that roofs make is a popping or cracking sound during extreme temperature changes. This is usually caused by the expansion and contraction of the roof decking, which is a normal occurrence. However, if the noise is accompanied by visible signs of damage, such as warped or sagging shingles, it may be an indication of a more significant issue.
A banging or tapping sound during windy weather is often caused by loose or damaged shingles or other roofing components, which can be a safety hazard if not fixed promptly. If you are hearing a persistent loud bang, we cover that in more detail in What Is That Loud Banging Noise On My Roof.
A whistling or humming noise may indicate gaps or leaks in the roof, compromising the roof's integrity and leading to costly repairs if left unaddressed.
Not all sounds are innocuous. If you hear scratching sounds from your roof, that indicates your home may be infested by rodents like mice or chipmunks, which could cause damage over time.
Ignoring unusual noises coming from your roof can lead to costly roof repair services down the road, not to mention the safety risks that come with a compromised roof. Unless you are entirely certain of the reason for the noises your roof makes, it is worth having a professional inspect the roof for any potential issues.
At New Heights Roofing, we start by assessing your roof's condition and identifying any issues that may be contributing to the noise. We check for signs of damage, such as missing or broken shingles, cracks in the roof decking, or leaks in the roof. We also inspect the flashing, vents, and chimney to ensure they are in good condition and functioning properly, and we verify the condition of your decking, underlayment, and shingles.
After the inspection, we provide a detailed report outlining anything we found and our recommended course of action. We will work with you to determine the best solution that fits your needs and budget.
Unusual noises coming from your roof should not be ignored. Contact New Heights Roofing to schedule a free inspection and have peace of mind.
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