Do you think it may be time to repair your roof or replace it and get a new roof altogether? More often than not, homeowners decide they need a new roof when they have a leak in their ceiling, or if their roof has been damaged after a major storm. While both of those are tell-tale signs that your roof is compromised, there are actually several other ways to determine if you need a new roof. Discovering these issues before a major problem occurs is key.
Here are six ways to tell if you need a new roof.
How old is your roof right now? Most homes have an asphalt shingle roof when they are built. These types of roofs can last over 20 years in favorable conditions. However, sometimes a new roof is installed over an old roof without removing the original shingles. Proper ventilation is important for roof longevity as well. All of these factors can play into the age of your roof. If your roof was installed more than 20 years ago, and is showing signs of wear, you should consider replacing your roof.
Is your roof missing shingles? High winds and major storms can be detrimental to a roof. If you notice shingles missing after a storm, you may be in need of a roof replacement or roof repair. Check to see if all of the shingle tabs are intact, and be sure to examine the entire roof. If some shingles are missing, there is a good chance other shingles that are still attached may be loose or failing.
Curled roof shingles are another sign that you could need a new roof. Shingles that are most often in direct sunlight can wear out faster and begin to curl. As they do, they often lose granules as well. Inspect the slopes of your roof for curling shingles. If found, it is a clear sign your roof is at the end of its life or that it is possibly defective, especially if it is not very old.
The valleys of your roof are one of the most important areas to monitor. Rain flows down the valleys and into gutters, keeping the roof clear. If debris builds up or a valley has been compromised, it could eventually result in roof leaks. If shingles are missing in these areas, then you should definitely consider a new roof.
One way to inspect the quality and integrity of your roof is by checking your attic. If you see daylight coming through in any area, then your roof is compromised. Another way to double check this is to carefully walk on the roof, or have a roofing professional check it out. If the roof feels spongy or bouncy in any are, it needs to be repaired. This could possibly be a sign of a even greater problem to the structure of the roof.
Check your gutters for shingle granules. If you find any, especially an unusual amount, your roof may have reached the end of its life cycle, as roofs tend to lose granules as they get older. Also, check for discoloration on your roof. If you notice darker areas, this is also a sign your roof is losing granules.
If you notice any of the issues with your roof, it is time to have it repaired or replaced. Call us today for a free inspection and we can tell you exactly what needs to be done.