Sometimes the warning signs of imminent roof failure are loud and clear, and other times freak accidents can lead to reroofing sooner than originally anticipated.
Whatever the case may be, knowing when you need a new roof is important if you want to make sure that your home stays protected from the elements. Join us as we dive into all the warning signs that signal the necessity of a roof replacement.
3 Warning Signs That You Need A Roof Replacement
Small Leaks
Big leaks are usually attended to immediately. It is the little ones that often go unnoticed or are simply ignored due to their seemingly insignificant effect on the rest of the house. Contrary to their trivial appearance, they often point to the fact that your roof needs fixing. Although small pinhole leaks won’t really cause that much damage, these leaks often get bigger with time and can become quite problematic.
If you notice water exposure of any kind, it is vital that you assess the leak and find the source. Any dripping sounds, water stains, mold, musty odors, or high humidity levels inside your home should ring alarm bells. Once you know where the water is coming from, you can determine whether your roof shingles have moved out of place or been damaged.
Damaged or Missing Shingles
The deterioration of your roof will largely depend on the type of shingles or tiles your roof consists of. One of the tell-tale signs that a shingle has reached the end of its lifespan is if its edges start to curl. This is quite common in wood or asphalt shingles. One or two curled shingles are not cause for immediate concern. But, any more than that signals the need for a roof replacement.
If you notice missing shingles, you can safely assume that the remaining shingles are not in the best shape themselves. If you have a tiled roof, missing shingles could indicate that it’s time to replace the sealants, nails, or flashing. If these parts deteriorate, they can cause tiles to slip out of position.
While metal roofs are known for their longevity, they can easily fall victim to the corrosive effects of rust. It is essential that you treat that rust the moment you spot it and not just simply paint over it. If not attended to properly, the rust can lead to the formation of pinholes.
Dull Shingle Color
When still in its prime, your roof will sport an even, bright color across its surface. However, as your roof ages, the shingle color may start to fade and become blotchy and uneven. In this case, consistency and uniformity are key.
Be sure to check the areas that are most affected by seasonal weather shifts. Those areas that harbor snow or leaves are most likely to succumb to the effects of wear and tear first. It is also these areas that will start to fade first and will probably need to be repaired more often.
If you notice big color changes in a roof that is nearing the end of its expected lifespan, then it may be time for a new roof. Remember, rather inspect your roof too often than not inspect it at all. You could save yourself a pretty penny by repairing problem areas in their early stages. You don’t want the problem to snowball into a gigantic mess.
Tips For Inspecting Your Roof
- If you have an attic, be sure to check for any signs of watermarks on the ceiling or walls.
- Regularly inspect your roof to look for missing, damaged, or aged shingles.
- Identify areas on your roof that are prone to moss, algae, or piles of leaves and clean them regularly.
- After heavy rain, be sure to check that your gutters are clean and free of blockages that could jeopardize the integrity of your roof.
Key Takeaways
Most roofs can last for 20 years or more. But, various factors can unexpectedly shorten the lifespan of your roof and necessitate the need for a roof replacement. So, it’s important to regularly inspect your roof for any signs of damage or aging. This will help you determine when it is time to trade your old roof in for a new one.