Has your roof reached the end of its lifespan? Perhaps you’ve noticed water spots/stains on the walls or ceiling, mold in your attic, or flashing damage. Or maybe your heating and cooling bills have been steadily rising. If so, you need to replace your roof.
The roof is one of the most important parts of every home. After all, it safeguards you, your family, and your valuable belongings from extreme weather elements. However, your roof’s integrity gradually decreases with constant exposure to windstorms, snow, hail, and heavy rain. A deteriorating roof translates to health hazards and compromised safety for your household.
But do you really need a roof replacement? Read more to learn the telltale signs you need a new roof.
REGULAR ROOF LEAKS
One of the signs that indicate your roof needs a replacement is if it’s leaking. Whether due to age, weather damage, or other disasters, leaks can result in astronomical costs if not handled promptly. This includes rot and decay to the roof deck, insulation, rafters, attic, drywall, and even your home’s foundation. It also presents a health hazard to everyone living in the space due to mold and mildew growth.
To identify leaks, look for:
- Water spots on ceilings or walls
- Missing or cracked shingles
- Mold or mildew growth
- Musty smells
- Dripping sounds
- High levels of humidity
While not all roof leaks will amount to a roof replacement, you’ll need a reputable roofer to determine the best course of action. Delays can worsen the situation, resulting in extensive damage and costly repairs.
CURLING OR MISSING SHINGLES
Due to age or a severe storm, shingles may start to deteriorate. In most cases, such damage is noticeable without having to climb on the roof. If you’ve identified buckled, curled, warping, cracked, or missing shingles, you may need new roofing. Also, check on your gutters for granules and shingle pieces, which indicate the roof is too old and has started deteriorating.
Some common signs of visible shingle damage include:
- Curled, damaged, or cracked shingles
- Missing granules
- Loosened or broken shingles
- Damage around vents
- Shingles on the ground
If any of these signs are apparent in your roof, a roof replacement is inevitable. However, work closely with an experienced roofing contractor who will evaluate the severity of damage and advise the best action to take.
THE ROOF IS OLD
When did you last install a new roofing system in your home? Maybe you’ve been avoiding a replacement by conducting numerous roof repairs. However, no roof lasts forever, and ultimately, a new roof will be unavoidable.
The lifespan of your roofing will largely depend on roof maintenance, weather conditions, workmanship, and the roofing material used. However, most roofs will last between 15 and 30 years. Thus, if your roof is more than 30 years old, it’s time to schedule a replacement.
If you have a shingled roof, you’ll need to know:
- If the previous roof was removed
- The number of shingle layers
- The ventilation in the attic
These factors will also affect how long a shingle roof will last. Whether or not you’ve noticed other warning signs of your roof nearing the end of its lifespan, be ready for a roof replacement. Also, keep in mind prolonged repairs will only cost you more, and in the end, you’ll still need new roofing.
An old, run-down roof can result in extensive and costly damages to your home. To maintain the integrity of your roofing system and to keep your home safe, make sure to replace the roof when it’s time. Do you need a roof repair, replacement, or new roof installation? Contact us at iHome Designs today for top-quality results.
