Often, homeowners are unaware that their roofs need replacement until they see the impact of the damages inside their houses. However, it’s essential to assess the integrity of your roof, especially if it’s extremely old.
So, how do you tell when it’s time to replace your roof? Here are some indicators that you need to call residential roofers for your roof replacement.
Your Roof Is Old
The age of your roof is among the most apparent indications that it needs to be replaced. Even when it seems to be in good condition, if it’s more than three decades old, then it’s likely time to change it.
A shingle roof may last anywhere from 20 to 30 years in most cases. Meanwhile, a roof made with clay tiles may have a long lifespan of up to 100 years. Metal-paneled roofs are known to survive 40 to 70 years. However, keep in mind that the roof’s longevity is determined by how much upkeep is done over time.
Nevertheless, if you don’t know how old your roof is or whether it requires replacement, it’s a wise idea to get it inspected by a competent home repair contractor.
Shingles Are Curling
Asphalt shingles are meant to be level and relatively pliable during their lifespan. But, as the shingles age, they may begin to lose form. With time, the edges of the shingles may begin to curl up. When this happens, your roof will start to sag.
If only a couple of shingles are curled, it’s probably not a serious problem. However, if multiple shingles are curling up, roofers may advise you to have your roof replaced. Nevertheless, you should hire a roofer to inspect the roofing and perform any necessary repairs to extend its life.
Cracked Shingles
Shingles deteriorate and grow brittle with time. As they age, they may also begin to fracture and break off. When a shingle becomes fractured or broken, it can be immediately repaired. But, when repairs become more regular, it may be necessary to replace the whole roof.
So, what causes these cracks apart from aging? After a strong storm, cracks and fractures might form on your roof. Wind may also cause shingles to be blown away from the roof’s top. The rattling movement might lead them to move against the screws that hold them in place, resulting in fractures or breaks.
Leaks
While leaks can naturally develop over time, frequent leaks are also a good signal that your roofing is no longer in fine shape. To check for leaks in your home, examine the attic for any water stains and discolorations that may be visible. You may also search for spots where sunlight is shining through the roof panels. This indicates the presence of fractures and holes.
If leaks are prevalent in your home, you might find yourself doing leak repairs frequently. Also, these leaks may quickly mount up and cause more severe problems. Instead of being frustrated, you can address this issue by changing your roof.
Sagging Roof
Sagging indicates that absorbed moisture has decayed your roof components. A drooping, sagging roof should be replaced immediately to prevent additional damage to your property. To check if your roof is sagging, look for evidence of absorbed moisture, decaying boards, or drooping areas, particularly at the lowest areas of the roof.
Presence Of Moss And Fungi
Moss and fungus suggest accumulated moisture, which can cause a roof to collapse. So, if you’ve noticed dark, streaky marks or areas of green growth on your roof lately, it’s time to replace it. Of course, if the case isn’t severe yet, you can still remove it using a brush. However, if visible moss persists after brushing, have a professional check the roof thoroughly.
High Energy Costs
If your energy bills have increased dramatically this year, your roof likely is to blame. An inadequately insulated roof causes the air to readily enter and exit your house, resulting in high energy expenses, especially during the cold season.
Furthermore, moisture can become confined in the attic if the area doesn’t have sufficient ventilation. This is especially prevalent during the summer months traps. Once this occurs, your air conditioning system will have a hard time functioning for lengthy periods. So, if your energy bills continue to rise, have your roof checked to know if it needs replacement.
Conclusion
There are several indicators that it’s time to update your roof. It’s just a matter of knowing what to look for since problems aren’t always noticeable immediately. Although roofs typically have high durability, several elements influence how long they last. So, it’s critical to examine your roof regularly to ensure that it’s in excellent shape.
If you’re unsure, have a residential roofer inspect your roof. They’ll be able to inform you if you need a new roof or if a simple repair would suffice.
