roof replacement, roof, roof damage

How To Know When It’s Time to Replace Your Roof

How do you know when it’s time to replace your roof? Sometimes, the signs are obvious, but some symptoms can be less innocuous. Recognizing when it’s time to replace your roof is crucial to maintain the integrity and safety of your home. Here are some signs that indicate you might need to replace your roof:

The first thing to consider is the age of the roof. Most roofs have a lifespan of 20-25 years. If your roof is approaching or has surpassed this age, it might be time for a replacement. An obvious sign that the need for replacement is imminent is noticeable curling or buckling shingles. Shingles that are curling, buckling, or losing granules (especially in the valleys) indicate that they are past their life expectancy. This can also be a sign of a defective roof.

Missing shingles are another telltale  sign of your roof’s vulnerability. This can lead to leaks and other roof damage. If you have a chimney and your flashing consists of roof cement or tar, it might need to be replaced with a long-term, water-tight fitting, like a metal flashing system. Besides missing shingles, it’s also prudent to inspect your gutters for shingle granules. Roofs tend to lose more granules toward the end of their life cycle.

Upon inspection, there may be a spongy feel or trampoline bounce when walking on the roof–this could mean the underlying decking is weakened from moisture. Check your attic to see if there is any daylight coming through the roof boards. A roof with a visible sag is also a serious problem that could indicate a structural issue. This might be caused by long-term water damage or a weakened roof structure.

If you have had any water damage or leaks in your home, it might be a sign that your roof is failing. Note any idiosyncrasies in your power bill as well. An unexplained increase in your heating or cooling bills could be due to air escaping through your roof.

If you notice any of these issues, getting a professional roof inspection is advisable to determine the extent of the problems and whether a repair or replacement is necessary. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a complimentary inspection. We’ll share our findings with you in an honest and easy-to-understand way and help you make the right choice when it comes to roof repair or replacement!