Roof replacement is one of the biggest home renovation projects. It can also be one of the most rewarding, as a new roof can add decades of life to your home and increase its value. However, most homeowners do not know the ideal time to have their roofs replaced. There are a few telltale signs that your roof needs to be replaced. If you’re not in the habit of peering up at your roof, here are some signs to look out for:
Age of the roof: The average life expectancy for a shingle is about 20 years. Depending on where you live and what type of shingles you have, this may be different for you, but if your shingles are older than 20 years old, they may need replacing soon. In this case, reach out to roofing roof replacement contractors immediately.
Cracks in your roof decking/underlayment: Cracks in the roof decking or underlayment can be dangerous as they allow water to seep into your home through those cracks and eventually cause more damage than just a leaky roof alone would cause.
Missing shingles: If you start seeing shingles missing from your roof, you may want to consider a replacement. Missing shingles can lead to more damage and make the rest of your roof more susceptible to problems in the future. If you see this happening in your house, it’s best to call a professional. They can inspect the damage and let you know if replacing the whole roof or some affected areas is worth the effort.
Leaks: If there are leaks in your home, water may be coming through the ceiling or walls. This is one of the most obvious signs that your roof needs replacement. If you notice any water stains on ceilings or walls, check around them for signs of moisture buildup before calling an expert to take a look at them. If there’s no moisture buildup near those stains, then most likely they came from above where water has leaked into your home through a hole in your roof or another area of weakness in your home’s structure, most likely caused by wind damage.
Dents or holes in the roof: If you have a leak, it’s probably time to replace your roof. If the water is coming through, it could indicate there is rot underneath. If there are no leaks, but you notice that your roof is dented all over, especially around the edges of your home, then this could mean it’s time for a replacement too.
Moss or algae growth on your roof: Moss or algae growth on your roof is one of the most common signs that you need to replace your roof. Moss and algae thrive in moist environments and can grow quickly on the underside of your roof decking. This growth can eventually lead to leaks in your home’s structure. If you notice moss or algae growth on your roof, contact a professional immediately so they can treat the problem before it becomes worse.
Key Takeaway
Roof replacement is a huge investment, and it’s not something to take lightly. The roof is one of the most important parts of your home, protecting you and your family from the elements. It also has a significant impact on the value of your home. If you’re thinking about replacing your roof, be on the lookout for telltale signs.
