One of the most important responsibilities of being a homeowner is maintaining your property and making sure it is always up to code. As time goes on, you are more likely to think about replacing your old roof with a new one. To determine whether or not it is time to replace your roof entirely, you need to watch out for a few signs.
Consider the age of your roof
A roof's age is one of the first things that you should pay attention to when inspecting for cracks, breaks, and other issues. Even if the roof appears like it is in good shape from the ground, it may need to be replaced after 25-30 years. Roofs from the past often used materials that aren't useful today or considered sturdy.
Start by inspecting your roof from the inside out
In the attic or any space in your home where the inside of your roof is visible, use a flashlight to observe the following potential signs that may indicate a more serious problem:
Light beams:
Light beams are common in roofs that need replacing or repairing. It is best to check your roof's interior during the day to detect any light beams.
Leaks:
Check your roof's interior for leaks and drips. A leaking roof can lead to foundation problems and other damage, especially if you do not resolve the problem right away. Moisture can contribute to mold growth, which can cause breathing problems and other health issues.
Streaks and Stains:
Be sure to look at all areas of the roof to find any spots, streaks, or stains. To determine the cause of any discolored spots on your roof, inspect them to locate the source of the leak.
Check the Shingles
Be sure to look for cracked or misaligned exterior shingles as well curled or bent upward shingles when looking at the exterior shingles on your home. In the case of damaged or curled shingles, you will need to determine if it is possible to replace them individually or if it is more prudent to invest in an entirely new roof.
Having shingle granules accumulate on your roof or in your gutters is another sign that you need a roof replacement. An excessive amount of shingle granule loss is a sure sign that your roof is not in the best condition to protect and insulate your home.
Be aware of wind damage on your roof
Depending on the type of roof you currently have installed, your roof may require more attention or reinforcement if you live in an area prone to high winds and major storms. When a roof is solid and in good condition, it will remain flat even during storms and heavy winds. After a storm, shingles that curl, fly away, or even break can signify the need to have your current roof examined further.
Is there a crack or a break in the roof?
You should examine your roof for strange cracks and breaks on the interior and exterior. Both inside and outside of the roof can suffer from cracks or breaks, so inspecting your roof thoroughly is vital. Any crack you notice on your roof should be investigated further to identify its root cause. It may be necessary to seek further assistance from a professional roofing company or contractor if you are unable to determine the cause of the crack.
Exposed Nails
When inspecting your roof, be sure to wear appropriate protective gear, especially from the outside. You may need to inspect the area even more if you notice exposed nails in the shingles or even in the roof base. An excessive amount of exposed nails could indicate a potential leak or unwanted cracks in your roof. If you have many exposed nails, your past contractors or roofers may have not done a good job of ensuring the roof's quality and durability.
Rotting Roof
Rotting roofs are never a good sign, nor do homeowners want to discover them during an inspection. The darkening of specific beams along with multiple damp spots may indicate your roof is rotting or is experiencing dampness. You can tell that your roof is rotting if you notice areas where the roof is sagging or dripping with water. Some roof beams and areas that have been damaged by water damage may be replaceable and repairable. If, however, the roof is rotting or saturated with water, replacing the entire roof is highly recommended.
Excessive Growths On Your Roof
Make sure to inspect both the interior and exterior of your roof when inspecting your roof for new growths you have noticed. Nature may be growing on its own in your house without you knowing if there is a more serious issue at hand. Most plants can be seen on the outside of your house and the outside of your roof. In many cases, removing and treating nature growths from a roof can solve the issue without extensive investment or repairs. If you notice excessive growths inside your home or on the roof, you should consult a professional to identify the exact cause.
Don't Panic
Even though you may be concerned about a crack, leak, or discolored shingles on your roof, there is still no reason to panic. In some cases, a roof will need a little work, but that doesn't mean it will need to be replaced completely. Consult with a professional roofing company or contractor that you can trust and rely on if you are unsure of whether your roof should be repaired or replaced.
Call Roof Tarp & Board Up today for emergency roof tarping or boarding up services!