The roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. It shields your family and belongings against harsh sunlight, damaging moisture, and falling debris like branches or hail. It may be time to replace or repair your roof if you’ve ever asked yourself the following questions:
1. How old is my roof? The average age for an asphalt shingle roof is between 15 and 18 years. A concrete tile roof usually lasts 35 to 50 years. If your roof is older than its standard lifespan, consider contacting a roofing specialist to discuss options.
2. Will the next big snowfall be too much for my roof to handle? When a roof starts developing valleys – places where it appears to sag, or buckle – that means the structure supporting it is weak and needs to be replaced.
3. Does my roof have peeling or missing shingles? If there are gaps in your shingle coverage, rain can seep into the underlying materials, damaging them. Peeling shingles are more likely to be ripped off by high winds. A large patch of missing shingles requires immediate attention.
4. Are there shingle granules in my gutters? When they get old, tiny bits of shingle break off. Then, they get carried down by falling rain. If you’re confident that your roof was installed correctly, shingle granules could mean that just a few new shingles are needed in worn or damaged areas. If the workmanship appears poor, overall, chances are you need a new roof.
5. Is my chimney flashing intact? The materials used to seal the chimney where it passes through your roof are called flashing. If these are broken, missing, or show signs of wear, it’s time to have them replaced. Flashing made from solid metal works best to keep wind and rain from reaching the inside of your home.
6. Does water leak through my roof when it rains? If your roof feels spongy or bouncy when you walk around on it, or if it appears to be swollen, chances are that water is getting in. A leak of this kind can damage not only the roof’s support structure but also valuables stored within.
7. Are there mossy patches or algae blooms in places that sunlight doesn’t reach? For the most part, algae is a cosmetic issue that causes streaks and unsightly blotching. In wintry climates, however, mossy patches tend to trap moisture, which can lead to the formation of ice dams. These creep under shingles, tearing into even the sturdiest roof.
After you’ve inspected your roof, do some research into the average cost to replace or repair your roof. Reach out to trustworthy roofing companies in your area for quotes, and guidance. A solid roof protects everything stored below it, and everyone living inside. Consider having your roof repaired or replaced, today!
