Your home’s roof has served you well for many years while acting as the first line of defense against the weather and other issues. Eventually, however, there comes a time when you’ll need to replace it.
A roof replacement is a significant investment. Deciding to replace your roof is an important decision which must take into account several factors. How do you when it’s time to replace your roof? In most cases, you need to look for the following signs. They point to a replacement rather than continuing repairs for temporary problem resolution.
1. Your Shingles Show Signs of Deterioration
Many homeowners choose asphalt shingles as their roofing material, and with good reason. They’re a more affordable option than other materials, and you should get 20 years of use from your asphalt roof before it’s time for a replacement.
Visible signs of wear, tear, and age of shingles including the following issues. They all point to a necessary replacement.
- You see more of the asphalt shingle mat than the shingle’s granules. A shingle roof consists of a fiberglass mat embedded with asphalt and covered with granules. The granules help protect your roof from harsh weather, including driving rain and hail. When you notice granules missing in large chunks, and notice an excess of them in your gutters, yard, or landscaping, it’s probably time for a roof replacement. Your shingles aren’t providing the proper protection.
- Your shingles are curled and cracking. Shingles start to curve upward as they near the end of their lifespan. They may also begin to crack – which is another sign you may need to replace your roof. Or, you may notice bulging in the middle of your shingles, also known as clawing or cupping, another sign of an aging roof.
- Your shingles are falling off. Missing shingles are another potential sign your roof has outlived its usefulness.
It’s important to remember damaged shingles can be repaired or replaced. But extensive shingle damage, such as those showing the signs of deterioration above, may indicate it’s time for a new roof.
2. Your Roof is Leaking
A leaky roof may suggest it’s time to replace your roof. If you notice excess moisture in your attic, mold in your home, or water spots on your ceiling, you probably have a roof leak.
Not every roof leak means you need a new roof. In some cases, the leaks can be patched by a professional roofing contractor. However, a series of several leaks in a short time often indicate your roof has more severe issues than those resolved by routine maintenance.
3. The Age of Your Roof
Every roof has a limited lifespan, although certain materials typically last longer than others.
- An asphalt shingle roof properly installed and maintained by a reputable roofer should last 20 years, possibly up to to 30. Following a regular schedule of inspections and maintenance will help prevent minor problems from turning into major ones.
- Wood shingles, such as cedar or shake, should last 20 to 25 years.
- A metal roof, a more expensive option, can last from 50 to 75 years.
4. A Sagging Roof Deck
Your roof’s deck consists of the support beams that hold your shingles and roof in place. If the decking is sagging or showing signs of moisture damage, you’ll likely need to replace your shingles and deck.
A sagging deck is a dangerous warning sign and you shouldn’t treat it lightly. Contact a roofing contractor as soon as possible to avoid a roof collapse or lasting damage to your home.
5. Broken or Damaged Flashing
Your roof’s flashing is a major defense against water damage. It is used to cover joints in the roof construction. Water leaks often are the result of damage to the flashing around your roof’s edges and valleys or around chimneys and skylights.
A roofer may be able to repair or replace the flashing rather than replacing the roof. Check with a professional contractor before deciding to go ahead with repair work.
6. Holes in the Roof
A roof with obvious holes is probably ready for a replacement. After all, holes leave your home open to the elements as well as birds and animals seeking warmth or shelter. Again, general repair work may fix the problem but always consult with your roofer before deciding what to do.
If you think it’s time to replace your roof, or if it’s showing signs of aging, contact the experts at Midwest Roofing, Siding & Windows. They have the know-how and experience to do the job right – whether it’s repair or maintenance work, or a full replacement.