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When it comes to roofing, many of the most dangerous threats aren’t from weather storms but from what’s quietly going on behind the scenes. For homeowners working with a trusted local roofer like Scurrah’s Roofing in Yorba Linda, CA—which offers full inspections, gutter and valley cleaning, resealing, and dry-rot/termite repair services—being able to recognize hidden damage early can save thousands of dollars and major stress.

In particular, two of the most insidious problems are termite infestation and dry rot—both of which can undermine your roof’s structural integrity before you ever see a single leak. Below are the top five warning signs that termite or dry rot damage may already be hiding under your roof. We’ll explain what to look for, why it matters, and how you should respond.

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What Are Termite Damage and Dry Rot, and Why Are They Especially Critical Under Roofs?

Termite Damage

Termites are wood-eating insects that target the structural components of homes—including rafters, joists, beams, sheathing, or other roof components. In many cases, the outer surfaces of wood may look fine, but the inside has been eaten away, leaving something that appears intact but is structurally weak.

In roof spaces, termites can enter via flaws in flashing, vents, attic access points, or from wooden components that are in contact with soil or poorly sealed joints. Once inside, they can compromise rafters and trusses, leading to sagging, leaks, or even partial collapse.

Dry Rot

Despite the name, dry rot is a fungal decay process that actually requires moisture to begin. It thrives in damp, poorly ventilated, or concealed wood. The fungus breaks down the structural fibers of the wood, making it crumbly, brittle, and weak. It commonly hides beneath shingles, around flashing, behind gutters, in eaves, and attic spaces.

What makes dry rot especially dangerous in roof systems is that the damage often occurs under the surface—the roofing may still look fine, the tiles intact, but the structure beneath is compromised.

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Warning Sign 1: Hollow Sounding or Weak Wood When Tapped

One of the most reliable early-warning signs of hidden damage—whether from termites or dry rot—is the feel or sound of the wood when tapped.

• In the attic or roof sheathing, wood that has been eaten or decayed often sounds hollow or thin.
• For termites, the interior has been eaten leaving only a veneer of wood; for dry rot, the fungus has broken down the structure leaving crumbly or fragile wood.
• Wood may break apart easily when prodded or a screwdriver may sink in with little resistance.

Why it matters: If the structural wood under your roof is compromised, the load that rafters or joists are meant to carry is weakened, risking sagging or structural failure.

What you can do: In the attic (if accessible and safe), tap rafters or beams and listen for hollow sounds. If detected, schedule a professional inspection immediately.

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Warning Sign 2: Visible Mud Tubes, Frass, or Discarded Wings

Termites leave behind tell-tale evidence if you know where to look:

• Mud tubes running along rafters or up foundation walls are a sure sign of subterranean termite activity.
• Frass (pellet-like droppings) may accumulate under roof eaves, attic floors, or near wall cracks.
• Discarded wings near windows or attic vents suggest that swarmers (reproductive termites) have entered.

Why it matters: These are signs of active infestation. Delaying action may result in advanced structural damage.

What you can do: Inspect attic floors, rafters, and eaves for mud tubes, droppings, or wings. If any are present, contact a termite specialist and schedule a roofing inspection.

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Warning Sign 3: Paint Blistering, Wood Discoloration, Sagging Roof Lines or Soft Spots

Both termite and dry rot damage can cause subtle visual clues:

• Dry rot often causes wood to look darker, develop deep cracks, or grow mold or spores.
• Termite damage might lead to paint blistering due to moisture buildup beneath surfaces.
• Sagging roof lines or uneven eaves could indicate weakened rafters or roof decking.
• Ceiling soft spots might reflect damage to structural wood above.

Why it matters: These symptoms often signal more extensive damage beneath the surface and should not be ignored.

What you can do: Look for uneven roof lines from the ground and inspect attic rafters for discoloration or softness. Blistering paint on eaves or fascia is another red flag.

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Warning Sign 4: Moisture, Poor Ventilation or Roof Leaks That Go Unresolved

Both termites and dry rot require moisture. Conditions that raise risk include:

• Leaking roofs or valleys
• Poor attic ventilation
• Gutter backups or downspout overflows
• HVAC or plumbing penetrations in roof decking

Why it matters: Moisture accelerates both termite activity and fungal growth that causes dry rot.

What you can do: Ensure gutters and valleys are cleaned regularly, attic spaces are well-ventilated, and that all roof penetrations are sealed. A full inspection will reveal any hidden moisture issues.

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Warning Sign 5: Roof Tiles or Shingles Becoming Detached, Sagging, or Cracks Around Pipes/Vents

Structural damage beneath the surface often results in:

• Loose or shifted tiles/shingles not caused by wind or storm
• Cracked flashing around pipes or chimneys
• Sagging valleys or soft decking underfoot
• Daylight visible from attic through roofing gaps

Why it matters: These may be signs that the wood substrate is failing, often due to dry rot or termite tunneling.

What you can do: Walk your property and inspect the roof from the ground. Use binoculars to look at the edges, valleys, and flashing areas. Schedule a roofing company to assess the substrate condition beneath the visible roof surface.

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Table: Summary of Warning Signs, What They Signal & What to Do

#	Warning Sign	What It Suggests	Immediate Action
1	Hollow-sounding or weakened wood when tapped	Termite tunnels or dry rot internal decay	Schedule structural inspection
2	Mud tubes, pellet-like droppings, or discarded wings	Active termite infestation	Contact pest control and roofing pro
3	Paint blistering, sagging lines, soft attic spots	Structural weakening from wood decay or pests	Full roof and attic evaluation
4	Persistent leaks or poor ventilation	Conditions ripe for decay or infestation	Moisture remediation and airflow improvement
5	Loose tiles, flashing cracks, visible roof dips	Damaged or weakened roofing substrate	Roofing contractor inspection and repairs

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Why Yorba Linda Homeowners Should Take These Signs Seriously

Southern California’s climate—including long dry seasons, brief heavy rainfalls, and high humidity—creates an environment where wood-framed roofs are vulnerable to moisture-related decay and pests. Older homes, clay tile roofs, or properties with poor ventilation are particularly at risk.

Scurrah’s Roofing provides services beyond surface tile work, including inspections and structural assessments that identify the very problems outlined above. Their focus on high-quality materials and wood-substrate repair means they don’t just replace tiles—they fix the structure beneath, preventing future failure.

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Tips to Prevent Hidden Roof Damage

To avoid dry rot and termite issues:

• Schedule an annual full roof inspection, especially if your home is older than 15 years.
• Keep gutters and roof valleys clear of debris.
• Reseal pipes, vents, and flashing points regularly.
• Improve attic ventilation with ridge or gable vents.
• Use treated lumber where possible in roof framing or substrate repairs.
• Inspect attic and eaves after heavy rains or every six months.

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What to Expect When Hiring Scurrah’s Roofing

When you hire Scurrah’s Roofing for a termite/dry rot roof assessment, here’s what they typically provide:

1. Visual inspection of all accessible roof and attic areas
2. Probing for wood softness or hollow sounds
3. Moisture detection if needed (especially under valleys and flashings)
4. Photo documentation of any suspected damage
5. Detailed repair plan if damage is found
6. Optional referral to a termite specialist if infestation is confirmed

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Final Thoughts: Stay Ahead of Hidden Roof Damage

Dry rot and termites won’t send you a warning before damaging your roof. What seems like minor cosmetic signs—soft wood, tiny wings, blistered paint, or a sagging roof line—may actually indicate deep structural issues.

By recognizing these early warning signs, and working with a trusted professional like Scurrah’s Roofing, you can avoid costly repairs, keep your roof safe and sound, and maintain the long-term value of your home.