Time For A Roof Replacement
Are you wondering whether you need a new roof? If rain is pouring through the ceiling or you’ve suffered major storm damage, there’s a good chance the answer is yes. However, there are also far more subtle signs that the roof over your head is nearing the end of its useful life.
Knowing what to look for can help you take care of the problem before you have to start getting out the water buckets! Here’s a look at six of the most common signs that it’s time to start thinking about a roof replacement.
1. Water Damage
Water stains on your ceiling or streaks of peeling paint down your walls are both signs that your roof is leaking. If you’re worried about leaks, you may also want to check for moisture in your attic, particularly after a rainstorm.
While you can sometimes have a leak repaired, this will only last so long. Eventually, you’ll need a new roof. Once you’ve noticed this issue, time is of the essence. Persistent leaks can damage your roof’s wood decking and quickly become a very expensive problem. If you notice any signs of a leak, be sure to call a roofing contractor right away.
2. Problems with Your Shingles
You can tell a lot about the health of your roof by taking a look at your shingles. If you notice that many are curled, buckled, cracked, or missing, you’ll likely need a roof repair or replacement soon. Buckling, in particular, is a sign that moisture in the attic has forced the nails holding your shingles up and out of the roof’s wood decking. Not only does this expose your home to the elements, but it also makes it more likely that the shingles will blow off during a storm.
As your shingles start to deteriorate, you may also notice that they begin shedding small sand-like granules. The presence of these granules in your yard, landscaping, or gutters is a sign that your shingles are losing their weatherproofing properties and will need to be replaced.
READY TO START YOUR ROOFING PROJECT?
3. Moss or Algae Growth
It’s fairly common for algae and moss to grow on roofs that are in shaded areas or are surrounded by trees. Most newer shingles are now algae-resistant, but if your roof is more than 10 to 15 years old, you may not have this technology.
In some cases, moss or algae growth can be blocked, removed, or contained. This can save you from needing a new roof right away. However, if you don’t get it under control in time, the algae growth can hold in moisture. This often causes damage to the wood deck under your shingles and can make your shingles rot.
4. Sagging Roof
If you notice that your roof is dipping down between the trusses, this is a serious concern. A visibly sagging roof is a good sign that the underlying structure is starting to rot or decay. Water damage, poor design, and excess weight can all cause your roof to start to sag. Unfortunately, once this happens, it will only continue to get worse. Waiting to take care of the problem will almost always lead to a far more expensive repair.
5. Rising Energy Bills
Your roof provides insulation against heat and cold coming into your home. When it starts to fail, you’ll often notice a spike in your energy bills. This is caused by your HVAC system having to work harder than usual to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
There are many issues that can make your HVAC system less efficient. However, if you’ve noticed rising energy bills in conjunction with other signs of roof damage, there’s a good chance you’ll need a new roof soon.
6. Your Roof is More Than 20 Years Old
Most roofs are warrantied for 20 years. If you’re getting near this mark, it’s probably time to start thinking about a new roof. A roof that is 25 to 30 years old often needs a full replacement even if it looks fine to the naked eye.
Older roofing materials often aren’t as strong or durable as the options available today, which is one reason why homeowner’s insurance companies often require a new roof after a certain age even if you’re not having any problems.
Don’t Ignore Roofing Red Flags
Purchasing a new roof is a big investment, so it’s common to feel tempted to put it off for as long as possible. However, once your roof starts to have problems, acting quickly can make all the difference. If you’ve noticed any of the warning signs above, you’ll want to contact a qualified roofing contractor. A professional roof inspection is the best way to determine whether it truly is time for new roof.
