A quality roof is one of the most important pieces of your home. It helps keep your home safe from the elements and keeps everything safe inside. But once this vital piece to your home is compromised, many issues can start to arise and wreak havoc on your belongings and finances. Keeping an eye on your roof, especially after severe weather, will keep you ahead of the game and help you decide if a new roof is the best option.
Deciding to replace your roof is a big decision, and you may not know where to start. We’ve consolidated the top 6 signs to look out for on your roof. If any of the following apply to you, it might be time for a new roof.
Start by checking the highest point of your home (usually the attic) for any signs of water damage. This can include visible water, soft walls, water marks on wood, visible mold, or the smell of mildew. If any of these signs are present, you’ll want to have your roof inspected immediately. Your prompt response is vital to preventing any further damage from occurring. Water entering your home is likely the most critical sign that you’re in need of a new roof.
A sagging roof is a very serious sign that your roof needs to be inspected. If your roof is sagging or drooping, this means that the structure is likely compromised. The snowball effect that subsequently occurs is generally fast. The more the roof sags, the more water sits on it. This leads to leaks, mold, mildew, and eventually a partial or complete cave-in of your roof. If your roof is sagging or drooping, immediately call a professional to have your roof inspected. It’s important to quickly obtain a new roof if the old roof has already collapsed.
If your roof has started growing its own personal garden, it’s time to have it inspected. Moss and algae growth on your roof indicate that your roof is not drying properly. This could be due to sitting water on your roof. It can also be caused by your roof being heavily shaded by trees, or the trees physically touching it. You need to have the growth inspected and promptly removed by a professional. If the damage is too severe, they may recommend a new roof.
If any of your shingles are cracked, broken, curled, or uplifted, you need to have them immediately repaired. Faulty or damaged shingles can lead to further harm to your roof. Depending on the severity of the damage, you may only need to replace a few shingles rather than pay for a new roof. But before you replace any shingles, be sure to check with your homeowner’s insurance to see if they are covered under warranty. Forbes offers a great, in-depth article on how to make a home insurance claim for roof damage.
Bald spots on a roof means that the granules of the shingles have started to break down. This could mean that the shingles have reached the end of their lifespan. You can also check your gutters for fallen granules. This is a telltale sign that the shingles are needing replacement.
The average lifespan of asphalt shingles is 15-25 years. If you have reached (or surpassed) this window, you may want to consider having the roof replaced. Whether you just shingle over your old roof or do a complete tear-off and replacement should be discussed and decided with your roofing company by deciding what is the best option for you and your home.
Keeping your roof in tiptop shape and clear of debris is the key to extending the life of the shingles. If you know your shingles have reached the end of their lifespan, but they look to be in good condition, we still recommend contacting a professional to have them inspect it. Their trained eyes may spot issues that have been overlooked. By keeping a close eye on your roof, you’ll be able to address problems before they become catastrophic.
ProCon Exteriors handles a wide array of exterior work for a home, but when it comes to installing a new roof, we have the expertise, the quality products, and the quality workers that will handle the job in the most efficient and effective way possible.
We are committed to giving you the pros and the cons of the roofing & exterior services and products that are available for your home. We won’t try to sell you what you don’t need. We will make sure that you understand the variety of roofing, siding, window, and door products on the market. Our goal is helping you choose the right roofing system and exterior for your home.