Divot/ sunken spot on roof-what should I do?

Question

I noticed this divot/sunken spot when I was in the roof blowing off leaves and moss . I tried to go into the attic to view this from the inside but I couldn’t tell what was going on because there was a lot of insulation and drywall from the high ceilings of the house in the way. What should I do ? I was thinking of contacting the roofing company that did the re-roof in 2010 or the homeowners insurance?

Jerry V. · Answer

Not enough info and too many variable to have a definitive answer for you, but ... some options (or thoughts):

IF it's older construction, you could have: Wide rafter spacing (24" o.c. instead of 18"o.c.) and thinner decking (like 1/4" plywood instead of 1/2" (7/16" really) OSB), so your going to have some waves over time!

Or, house has settle and thus 1 rafter is a bit higher than the next, making a wave or dip.

Or, yes perhaps that spot there is a weak area, and has or MAY allow water to get to the decking... IF so, there are some fixes...

Fixes:  I knowledgeable roofer can seal the shingle joints (UNDER the shingles, not on top) and thus no water will be able to get underneath anything.  It's the easiest and cheapest way.

OR; a 2x4 (2x6?) support can be installed between the rafters in the questionable attic, thus raising it up and supporting it at the same time.  But may not be able to get to or work that area needed.

OR; yes the shingles can be removed, replace the decking, then install under-layment and shingles.  IF only replacing ONE rafter-rafter piece of decking, MUST install a support under it, or it WILL sag over time.  Or you can install a longer piece of decking, (4-6ft) so it is rigid enough to stay stiff and not sag.  (this is probably the most $$$ option)

No, any work/job from 10+ years ago will not be warrantied (MOST times).  Heck, most roofing companies aren't around for 10+ years! (though we've been in business for 20+years now! yeaa! lol) And don't bother with insurance... because remember, any $ Under our deductible amount, is our responsibility.

1st option) Your probably looking at $150-250.  Option 2) $250-400  Option 3) $350+

Let me know if you have more questions.  (you post a lot of "what should I do" questions eh!?) ...

David Avery · Answer

what is your deductable ?  $500 or less?

Its bad framing in roof construction, roofer should have pointed it out prior to his re surface.  But he will deny it since 12 years have gone by.

Roofing rafters need to be  re leveled,  It is not that big of a fix and most framers will do it for about the cost of your deductable!

Sergey A. Petrov · Answer

Likely water damage / plywood rotting away under the shingles so it sagging. Not sure that calling a contractor from 12 years ago will get you anywhere. Also don’t see how insurance would pay for it (or did a tree fall on that part of the roof?) Have someone inspect from the attic then proceed to removing the shingles, the underlayment, and the damaged plywood. Reinstall in reverse. More than that one spot may need to be torn out…