Signs It's Time for A New Roof

Most homeowners think their roof is in good condition until it fails, leaving them with a bigger mess and more considerable expense to rectify. Your home is your safe haven, and far too often overlooked roofing problems put your safety and investment at unnecessary risk.

The roof is a house's first line of defense; if it shows signs of wear and tear or is damaged beyond repair, it should be replaced to ensure the structure's integrity. Let's look at the most common symptoms that your roof needs to be replaced so you'll know what to look for before disaster strikes.

The Age of Your Roof

Most roofs last between 18-22 years, depending on the materials used in their construction. Even the most robust roofing materials are only intended to last so long, and considering the roof is exposed to harsh natural elements, it is not designed to last forever. If your roof was installed 20 years ago, it's time to upgrade.

Algae Has Made Your Roof Its Home

Algae thrive in moist, warm places, making your roof an ideal place to take root. When airborne algae spores fall in the cracks and crevices of your roof, they can quickly flourish, compromising the integrity of your roofing materials. The presence of algae on your roof also signals the presence of moisture, which is not a good sign for your roof.

Loss Of Granule

The outermost layer of many roofs is made of shingles, comprised of compressed granules. Over time and exposure to weather and debris, these granules may loosen and fall off without you even noticing. However, bit by bit, granule loss can become extensive enough to jeopardize the shingle's integrity and, therefore, your roof.

A Sagging Roof

If your roof is sagging or bowing in a particular place, it is most likely due to extensive water damage. Continuous water damage softens and warps the top and the wood underneath. As the roof sags, it allows more water to damage the area, which leads to further degradation of the site. Sagging roofs should be fixed quickly and correctly or risk total collapse.

Shingles Are Cupping or Curling

Shingles should slightly overhang the edges of your roof that do not have gutters. Old and damaged shingles may begin to cup or curl along the edges, signifying they need attention. When shingles are curled and cupped, your roof is at risk of damage from water that seeps through the unprotected spaces.

Roof Leaks

Roofs can leak due to storm damage or age; in either case, a roofing contractor should assess the leak and determine the best course of action. Some leaks can be repaired, while more extensive leaks lead to a total roof replacement. Leaks left for a long time only led to further water damage to your roof and home, so call your roofing contractor at the first sign of a leak.