There comes a time when you’ll need to replace your roof because of different reasons. For instance, your roof may have been damaged after a storm, or it’s already worn out. Remember, the roof is made of materials prone to wear and tear, so you’ll have to replace it at some point because of factors such as aging.
5 signs you need a new roof now include:
- Shingles
In some instances, roof damage can be obvious. The shingles act as a gateway to the roofing system. When you notice that the shingles are cracked, curling, or missing when you look at the roof, it means you need to replace your roof.
The common forms of shingle damage that are visible from the ground include:
- Curled or damaged shingles
- Cracked shingles
- Discoloration or damage around vents
- Missing or loose shingles
- Algae or moss growth
- Missing granules
- Damage around the skylights or chimneys
You should also check whether there is shingle debris in the gutters. If you find debris in the gutters, it means the shingles have begun to disintegrate.
If you notice any of these signs on the roof, it indicates that your roof needs replacement. You can consult a roofing professional, and they can inspect your roof to determine the extent of the damage. Afterward, they can recommend suitable ways to fix it.
- Aged Roof
You should check when your roof was installed. Proper maintenance can extend a roof’s lifespan; however, you’ll have to replace it at some point.
The asphalt shingle roofs are supposed to last for 20 years. So, after 20 years, ensure your roof is inspected by a roofing professional. Depending on the roof’s state, they will advise on the best course of action.
- Interior Water Damage
A visible drip is one of the signs of a roof leak. In other instances, interior water damage can also indicate a roof leak, and it looks like stains, streaks, or water spots on the walls and ceiling in your home. Leaking appliances or a burst pipe mainly causes water damage. If it shows up on the ceiling or in the attic, there is a high likelihood that your roof is leaking.
In this case, contact a professional roofing contractor, and they will inspect your roof first to determine the source of the leak. If the roof leaks, they will evaluate the extent of the damage and advise on the best solution to this issue. In most instances, you’ll need a new roof.
- You Notice There’s Exterior Damage
Even if your roof is not yet old, it is important to carry out a visual inspection every few years. If the roof has wooden or asphalt shingles, the exterior damage may appear in the form of missing or curling shingles. If you have a clay, rubber, or metal tile roof, you need to look for the spots that appear cracked or thin or the areas that seem worn or dented.
While examining the roof, pay attention to the areas that appear to be more prone to damage; these include the slopes or the roof that usually receives direct sunlight and the valleys where the slopes of the roof meet. The valleys are an important part of the roof since they direct water runoff into the gutters. You also need to check the downspouts and gutters.
- Vegetation Growth on the Roof
It is hard to look up the roof and tell that it needs to be replaced if you lack roofing knowledge. However, some signs indicate you may need a roof replacement, one of which is vegetation growth on your roof. The vegetation we’re talking about includes moss and algae.
Vegetation growth is an indicator that your roof is aging. If you notice some black streaks on the roof, they’re most likely because of algae growth. Fortunately, you can clean the algae off the roof if it isn’t that old. You only need to hire a professional cleaner who understands how to soft wash.
What Should You Do If You Need a New Roof?
If you’ve gone through the list above and you’re now conversant with the signs that you need a new roof, you should contact a roofing firm, and they will assess the current condition of your roof. They can offer recommendations for replacement or repairs. Before embarking on roof replacement, it is advisable to seek quotes from different roofing companies first.
