What’s that Noise? Understanding and Addressing the Sounds Your Roof Makes
Do you ever notice strange sounds in your home coming from above?
There are two things you should: 1) It’s not any sort of paranormal activity, and 2) most roof noises are perfectly harmless.
However, some could indicate issues with your roof, and in today’s blog post, we consider common roof sounds, their possible causes, and the importance of addressing roof noise to avoid serious roof damage.
Creaking
Creaking roof noises are often a result of things such as wind or settling, but some creaking can be concerning.
It takes some roof noise understanding to figure out when creaking is bad. It depends on when and how the roof creaks:
- Nighttime creaking: This is rarely anything to worry about as it usually relates to a change in temperature and humidity as the roof cools. The constriction causes a slight creaking that is normal and harmless.
- Windy creaks: Wood structures can become creaky as winds rise. If your roof only creaks in high winds, it is not a problem. However, if even a breeze or moderate wind causes creaking, the roof’s structure could be weakening. Have your roof inspected to see if there is an issue.
- Random creaking: Random creaking happens without a logical explanation. This is not normal. If your roof creaks constantly or without winds or changing temperatures, call a roofer to assess your roof for potential issues.
How to Prevent Creaking Roof Sounds
- Ensure your attic ventilation is adequate to help maintain even temperatures
- Have your roof inspected in the spring and fall to spot issues requiring repairs
Ticking or Dripping
You likely have a roof leak if you hear a constant ticking or distinct dripping coming from above. Call a roofer right away to inspect your roof and make repairs.
How to Prevent Leaks
- Spring and fall roof inspections identify compromised shingles so repairs can be made
- Clean your gutters and eaves every spring and fall to help reduce the risk of water backing up under your shingles
Running Water
The sound of rushing or running water, especially during the winter when there is snow on your roof, is another sound you don’t want to hear.
This likely means you have a severe roof leak or issues with your roofing system, such as your gutters. Call your roofer right away, as the longer you wait, the more severe the damage becomes. They will identify the source and recommend repairs or roof replacement.
How to Prevent Running Water
- Follow the same tips for leaks!
“Footsteps”
If it sounds like someone is moving around in your attic when the temperature changes, this could be pests.
Take a peek in the attic to see if there are any signs of life. If not, it could be related to insufficient attic insulation causing air leaks. Call a roofer or contractor to inspect your attic for insulation issues.
How to Prevent Footstep Roof Noises
- Inspect your attic for pests every spring and fall
- Have a contractor insulate your attic properly
Loud Rattling
Loud rattling sounds from the roof could be related to the “whirlybird vents” on your roof.
These turbines improve attic ventilation. However, if they are rusty or obstructed, they can make rattling and squeaking sounds. You can venture onto the roof to check them or, better yet, have a roofer do it.
How to Prevent Turbine Rattling and Squeaking Roof Sounds
- Inspect your turbines every spring and fall
- Remove obstructions from the turbines
- Have your turbines serviced along with your spring and fall roof maintenance
Popping
Roof popping noises, like creaking, are caused by temperature changes. In this case, there are a few possible factors at play, including:
- Interior temperature changes: When you turn up the heat or AC, interior temperature changes can cause contractions and shifting of roof materials that creak or pop. This usually occurs if you don’t have proper insulation.
- Moisture evaporation: Moisture caused by sap, water, or ice under your shingles can produce steam causing a popping sound as the steam escapes.
- Exterior temperature changes: Exterior temperature changes cause materials in the ridge line, eaves, valleys, hips, and gables of your roof to shift, which sounds more like pops than creaks.
- Structural damage: Popping can also indicate potential structural damage.
Have your roofer inspect your roof to determine the cause and make repairs to avoid costly damage.
How to Prevent Popping Roof Noises
- Have your shingles checked every spring and fall to ensure they are secure and won’t allow moisture to collect below them.
- Check your attic to see if it requires insulation upgrades.
- Have your roof system inspected for damage every spring and fall.
- Clean your gutters every spring and fall
Although your house makes all kinds of noises, it helps to recognize when your roof is trying to tell you something. Roof noise understanding can save you thousands of dollars in costly repairs. However, regular roof inspections and maintenance are the best way to address roof noises and avoid expensive roof damage.
The Len Roofing & Remodeling Difference
When we say that we’re a top-quality home remodeling and roofing company that serves the North Shore and surrounding Chicagoland area, we back it up. We do more than simply cover the basics: we show up on time and nail it. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 847-768-6000 or visit our contact page.
