Replacing or repairing a roof can be one of the more stressful things that homeowners have to consider. Even the best-quality roofs can become worn over time from age and weather and outlive their useful life. Should the time come to replace your roof, it’s better to do so before any significant issues occur, resulting in a roof failure. Here are a few signs when considering if it’s time for a new roof.
It’s an Old Roof
Age is perhaps one of the best ways to gauge whether or not your home needs a roof replacement. Depending on your roof’s material, it can last anywhere from 20 years (such as asphalt shingles ) to 80 years (brick).
- The two best tips for considering your roof’s age and whether or not you may need a roof replacement is first to look back through your home inspection report you may have on file from when you bought your house to see and understand the roof’s age.
- Another tip is to take notice of when your neighbors are getting their roofs replaced, as typically neighboring homes are built around the same time and often experience the same storm events and daily weather.
Discolored Roofs— Bald Spots Green Spots & Dark Streaks
When the coloring on your roof is dramatically different from the time you first purchased your home, it may be a sign that your roof’s lifespan is approaching its end.
-Typically, the rough texture on your roof’s shingles, called granules, will come off over time. If this becomes a widespread problem, you may begin to see these granules collecting in the gutter as they wash off with rain. It is essential to have your roof checked if these bald spots continue to increase in size, as it could be the sign that your roof is reaching its life expectancy. Moss may also contribute to damaging the granules on your shingles and should be professionally cared for to extend the life of your roof.
On the other hand, dark streaks can be caused by airborne algae sticking and growing on your roof over time. The streaks may not harm your roof if treated but can eat away into the roof if unchecked leading to a substantial repair or replacement.
Leaks
Of course, a significant roof leak demands your immediate attention. But smaller leaks can also be an early warning sign that your roof is ready for replacement, yet they may not be so apparent and can be easily ignored. If you’re noticing water exposure of any kind — such as water stains or mold growing in ceilings or walls, excessive humidity levels indoors, or a damp odor — it’s critical to have it inspected for repair at minimum before it gets worse.
Curling, Cracking & Missing Shingles
It’s common to need a few shingles replaced now and then, but if you have an older roof and its shingles that are missing, curled, or cracked, it is another sign that you may need a new roof. If you notice your roof shingles falling apart or missing, particularly in the roof’s valley where rain and snow are meant to flow, it’s time to have a contractor look into it.
Roof Sagging
Another clear sign a roof may be ready for replacement is if you notice your roof is beginning to sag. Such problem areas where this is likely to occur and do damage includes the valleys and dips in the roof, where rainwater and snow tend to collect. A sagging roof is usually a sign of more severe and structural damage; it could be in the decking in the attic or even in the foundation’s supports. While your roof may not be ready to cave in, even a small amount of sagging could indicate severe and structural damage to the decking in the attic or the foundation. Be sure to care for this issue immediately.
The Best Way to Know If Your Roof Needs Replacement?
An inspection from trusted professional roofers is the surest way to lean the full condition of your roof. The National Roofing Contractors Association suggests a bi-annual spot-check in addition to checking after severe weather hits. Your roofers will inspect every aspect of your roof to gauge any roof repairs or replacement needed: from interior damage in your attic to full exterior inspection. To learn more about roof replacement or for a roof inspection, contact Powell’s today.
