How to Tell When Roof Needs to be Replaced?

The majority of people rarely give their roof a thought until there is a leak! Don't put off paying attention to your roof until water is dripping through the ceiling and you have to break out the buckets. The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends that homeowners inspect their roofs regularly twice a year, in the spring and fall. A spring roof inspection is especially important this year because of the significant snow and ice buildup from we've experienced this winter. Homeowners should clear debris from gutters, downspouts, drains, and rooftops while simultaneously looking for signs of damage. Here are a few warning signs that it might be time for a new roof.

Start with Your Attic

The first place to look if you think you might need a new roof is your attic, not the outside of your house. Therefore, equip yourself with a flashlight and ascend to the eaves. Look for signs of a leaky roof, such as light beams coming through the top of the house or stains and streaks.

Check Your Shingles

Make sure your rooftop is in good shape by keeping an eye on it, especially after severe storms. Shingles ought to be flush against the roof; if you discover any that are buckled, cracked, or otherwise damaged, repairs are required. While you're at it, look for shingle granules in the gutters and downspouts; a roof that is losing a lot of granules may be past its prime.

Check Your Home Records

Check your home improvement records to find out when the roof was reshingled or replaced. The amount of life a roof has left can be determined by knowing when it was installed and what material it is made of. A typical asphalt shingle roof, for instance, lasts 20 to 25 years, whereas a roof that was added on top of an existing layer of shingles needs to be replaced after 20 years.

Rescue from Rot

In a shaded area of your yard, moss may look lovely, but on a roof, it can cause problems. Moss (as well as mold and fungi) are signs that there may be moisture trapped, which can damage a roof. Use a stiff brush to remove the moss that gathers in the shadowed areas of your roof, but take care to address any underlying issues first.

A sagging, drooping roof must be replaced immediately to prevent further harm to your house. In particular at the lowest points in the roof, look for signs of trapped moisture, rotting boards, or sagging areas.

Do Not Panic

Don't assume that you need a brand-new roof just because you have a few damaged shingles or a small leak. Your roof may only need repairs rather than a complete replacement if it was installed correctly and is less than 15 or 20 years old. When in doubt, speak with an expert to get a qualified opinion.

If you think your roof needs attention give us a call for a free consultation.