Your roof is your home’s first line of defense when storms pass through, making it a vital component to the preservation of your most significant investment. It can become damaged due to its age, the elements, or wear and tear—compromising your house’s protection.
Don’t put your property at risk by overlooking your roof’s need for repairs or replacement. Read on to know the signs it’s time to have an inspection and define if your roof needs to be replaced or repaired.
8 Signs Your Roof Needs Attention
From the safety of the ground, take a pair of binoculars across the street from your house and get a good look at your roof’s components. If you see things that concern you, contact a reliable roofing contractor for an inspection to determine if you need repairs or replacement. The general rule is that if over 25% of your roof is damaged, or if it has undergone repeated repairs, it’s probably time for a replacement.
1. Visible Damage
Are your roof shingles cracked, curled, missing, or deteriorated? Roofing components become damaged often due to wind damage. When shingles, flashing, and other roofing elements become compromised, they should be replaced promptly to ensure your home’s integrity isn’t negatively impacted (causing leaks).
2. Moss or Algae Growth
When moss and algae grow on your asphalt shingles, they can lead to a variety of issues if left unchecked. Moss retains moisture on your roof and leads to premature aging, deterioration, and leaks. It looks unsightly and hinders your home’s curb appeal. While it may not lead to roof replacement, it will need to be treated by a professional to remove it and prevent roof issues.
3. Missing Granules
If your gutters and downspouts have a lot of asphalt granules accumulating in them, your roof is likely vulnerable to damage. Granule loss is a classic sign your roof needs repair or replacement.
4. High Utility Bills
Your roof helps insulate your home, so when it is compromised, your energy use and utility bills will increase. Skyrocketing utility bills may indicate you need roof repair or replacement. Contact a reputable roofer for an inspection.
5. Old Roofing Components
Most asphalt roofing systems last between 15 and 30 years, depending on their manufacturer and the climate they have endured. Wood shakes or shingles last 20-40 years, while metal roofing can last up to 40-75 years.
If your roof is nearing the end of its predicted lifespan, contact a roofing contractor with a track record of success and have them inspect it. Even if you don’t see major problems with your roof, its age alone can put your property at risk of damage if you don’t replace it in a timely fashion. Ask for a detailed estimate on a new roof, and schedule its replacement.
6. Storm Damage
If your roof is damaged in a storm, contact a trusted roofing contractor (like us!) for an inspection to determine if you need repairs or replacement. In addition to taking pictures of the problems and noting any negative results of the storm, reach out to your insurance company and file a claim to get the repair or replacement process started.
7. Roof Replacements in Your Neighborhood
Most homes in your area were probably built around the same timeframe, and since they are subject to the same weather elements, they will likely need repairs or replacement around the same timeframe. So if you see different homeowners in your neighborhood having new roofing installed, it may be good to reach out for an inspection and determine when you’ll need a replacement.
8. Sagging
A sagging roof is one of the most urgent situations you can have with your home and could indicate structural problems. The boards under your roof may have rotted due to moisture infiltration, and your foundation may be negatively impacted. Contact a roofer immediately if your roof sags.
Get a Beautiful New Roof Installed by Our Experienced Team
Don’t settle for a subpar roof that you can’t rely on in a storm. Ensure your home is well protected with a durable new roofing system installed with precision you can rely on. At Craftsman Exterior Remodeling, we are a Preferred Contractor for the #1 roofing manufacturer in the world—Owens Corning. Our detailed installation yields optimal performance. Learn more about how our roofing services enhance your home’s curb appeal and safeguard it from the elements.
