Having a safe roof over your head is one of the most important factors in a home’s security. But sometimes, roofs can suffer damage or wear out due to extreme weather conditions, poor maintenance, or simply because they’ve reached the end of their lifespan. And while regular maintenance and inspections can keep your roof in good condition, sometimes these may not be enough.
Roofs are designed to last an average of 15-20 years, so if your roof is getting close to that age, it’s time to start considering whether you should replace it. Here are five signs that your roof has seen better days.
Sagging Roof
Roofs are supposed to be flat and even. But if you notice a sagging area, then it could mean that the rafters or sheathing underneath the roof have been damaged. This is usually caused by moisture seeping in, which can weaken the structure over time. It could also be a result of poor installation.
To fix this, your roofer will need to inspect and replace any weakened areas with new material. They will also need to check the ventilation system and install a new roof if necessary. If left unchecked, the problem could worsen and lead to further issues with your roof.
Granules in the Gutters
When you look at your gutters, you should never see granules from your shingles in them. That’s because granules protect the asphalt shingles from UV rays, so shedding means the protective layer has been worn away. If you notice a large number of granules, then the shingles may need to be replaced.
This is especially true if your roof is over ten years old or hasn’t been inspected in a while. Check how much granulation has started coming off and what color they are. Darker colors indicate that the shingles may have been exposed to more sunlight and need to be replaced sooner while lighter colors can indicate that the age of the roof is more of an issue.
Moss Growth
Moss growth can signify that your roof has seen better days, especially in a humid climate with lots of rain and moisture. Not only does moss look bad, but it can also lead to further damage. Moss tends to grow in areas where moisture has accumulated, which can weaken the roof structure over time.
To get rid of moss, you’ll need a professional roofer who knows how to properly remove it without damaging your roof’s shingles and other components. They may also need to replace damaged shingles or add a new layer of protective coating to help prevent future moss growth.
Damaged Flashing
Flashing is the metal strip that lines the edges and valleys of your roof and helps keep moisture from entering. Flashing is also important since it helps direct water away from the roof and into the gutters.
But if your flashing is damaged or corroded, it won’t be able to do its job properly. The most common causes of damaged flashing are age and improper installation.
To fix this, you’ll need a professional roofer to inspect any damaged flashing and replace it with new material. They may also need to seal any gaps or cracks around the flashing to prevent leaks from occurring.
Curled, Missing, Blistered, or Damaged Shingles
Shingles are the most visible part of your roof, whose job is to protect the underlying layers from moisture and the elements. Also, shingles are the first line of defense for keeping moisture out.
Some of the most common causes of shingle damage are age, extreme weather conditions, poor installation, and improper maintenance. Your shingles may also be missing due to physical damage or high winds.
If you notice any curled, missing, blistered, or damaged shingles on your roof, it’s time for a replacement. Your roofer will need to replace these shingles to protect the underlying structure from further damage. They may also need to inspect other roof areas to ensure no further damage has occurred.
Whether you have a tiled, shingled, or metal roof, timely inspection and maintenance is key to keeping it in good condition. But if you notice any of the signs above, it’s time to call a professional roofer to inspect your roof and determine whether it needs a full replacement. Our professional roofers are experts in the field and can help you decide the best course of action for your roof. You can count on us to provide quality service and care for your roof replacement needs.