Signs that You Need a New Roof
Sometimes the last thing you think about in-home improvement is the very roof over your head. This is typically fine – until you have a leak! You certainly do not want to wait for water damage or other issues. Instead, think ahead and learn to recognize the signs that you need to replace your roof. This will help you be proactive and mitigate the issue before it costs you.
Roofs are designed to last two decades or more, so this issue will not occur often – but you need to know the signs regardless!
Start Inside
If you think you need a roof replacement, start your inspection inside to determine if replacement is necessary. Check the attic for potential issues. With a flashlight, you can determine if there are beams of light coming through. If there are beams of light, streaks, or stains, you might have a leak. This is the first step in determining if you need a roof replacement or repair.
Follow the Paper
A paper trail can indicate how long ago your roof was re-shingled or replaced. So, check home improvement records. Public records will show when the roof was installed and the material used to comprise it. From there, you can determine how much life the roof has left.
If you aren’t sure how to check the public records, ask local roofing companies for help. Residents of Austin, TX, for example, can contact Austin roofing companies for help on figuring out the installation date of the roof and when a maintenance check or replacement is necessary.
In general, a typical asphalt shingle roof can last anywhere from twenty to twenty-five years. If a roof was installed over existing shingles, it is a twenty-year replacement window.
Investigate Shingles
Another step to recognizing rooftop replacement is investigating the shingles periodically. After heavy storms or other strenuous circumstances, check the rooftop for damage. You will want to ensure the shingles are flat against the surface.
Shingles that are damaged, cracked, or buckling will call for repairs. Your rooftop inspection also should include downspouts and gutters. Check these to see if the damage extended beyond the shingles.
Flash Forward
Vents, chimneys, and skylights have flashing that seals roof seams from weather and rain. Investigate these points. Periodic inspections will help you to avoid breaks and cracks, and therefore leaks as well.
Flashing in older homes usually consists of tar or cement. If you are dealing with an older roof, you should consider metal flashing for increased durability.
Rot Rescue
If you have a sagging, droopy roof, you certainly need to consider replacing it. Delaying replacement could cause further damage. Checking the surface for trapped moisture, sagging spots, and rotting boards to mitigate further issues.
Control the Greenery
Greenery can enhance the house aesthetic, but it can also mean trouble. Moss might make for a shady corner, but it also indicates trapped moisture. This goes for fungi and mold as well. All of this can ruin the overhead structure. Eliminating moss will help increase the longevity of the roof. A stiff brush is typically helpful in these situations.
Don’t Panic
A few damaged shingles do not mean cause for panic. Some damaged shingles simply require replacement and not a big overhaul. A properly installed roof can last for twenty years or more. So, if the roof is younger than this, you may be able to just replace some damaged shingles without a full roof repair.
Reach Out
You are not expected to be a roofing expert even if you are a homeowner. If you are uncertain about replacement, repair, or just general roofing questions, always contact an expert. A licensed roofing contractor can provide a professional opinion. This professional opinion can lead to the necessary services to ensuring you have a safe, dry roof over your head.
