Fall is creeping up on us, and one of the most popular home improvement projects for this time of year is roofing. Homeowners want a roof that will protect them from the elements and all that winter has in store. Will your roof hold up this winter or is it time for a replacement? In this article we will discuss 9 signs that you need a new roof.
Before we get to the list it is important to note that the number one way to know if you need to replace your roof is to have it inspected. You could be experiencing none of the signs on this list, yet your roof may be approaching the end of its lifespan. A thorough inspection by a trained professional will provide additional evidence about the condition of your roof and a plan for how to maintain it (repair or replacement).
Now onto the list.
Signs You May Need a New Roof
1. Leaks.
The most obvious sign that you need a roof replacement is water leaking into the house, which means that there are holes and gaps in the roof that need to be repaired.
2. Shingles on the ground.
Finding shingles on the ground is a sign that your shingles are starting to fail and are being lifted off by wind and other weather elements.
3. Missing shingles.
Even if you don’t find shingles on the ground, check your roof to see if all shingles are intact or if there appear to be missing shingles.
4. Shingle pieces or granules in the gutter.
Deteriorated shingles may come off in pieces, not as a whole. Also, a roof at the end of its life cycle will start to lose more granules and these will end up in the gutters.
5. Curling.
Shingles should lay flat. If you are noticing curling or bending it is time for a new roof.
6. Lifespan.
An asphalt shingle roof can last 20-40 years, and wood shingles or shake roofs can last 30 years. This article has average lifespans of other roofing materials.
However, we mention lifespan with caution because it’s actually quite rare for roofs to last to these ages. Lifespan also has to do with the quality of materials used, the installation, and the weather for your area, so a realistic lifespan is usually shorter than these listed times. Never assume that your roof is okay simply because of these lifespan numbers.
7. Daylight through the roof boards.
Check the attic. If you can see daylight coming through then it might be time for a roof repair or replacement. While up in the attic, also check to make sure there isn’t moisture in the insulation, or signs of moisture damage such as mold and mildew.
8. Moss, mold or rot.
Moss can hold moisture and damage your roof during the winter. On the other hand, mold and rot are signs that moisture damage has already occurred. Beyond aesthetics, anything growing on your roof could be a sign that you need a replacement.
9. Cracks or bald spots.
If all shingles appear to be in place, a closer inspection could reveal problems such as cracked shingles or bald spots where the shingle granules have worn off.
The signs listed above indicate that your roof is deteriorating. It may be possible to repair the current roof, or a complete replacement may be in order. Rely on the advice of your roofer. Once again, you also may need a repair or a replacement even though you aren’t noticing these problems. Only a trained professional can diagnose the problems and suggest solutions.
If you are in the market for a new roof, there are a number of materials to choose from. One of the most popular is asphalt shingles, with some brands now offering lifetime warranties and even warranties that can be transferred to the next owner. Another popular option is wood, which includes wood shingles and wood shake. Visit this article on our blog to learn more about wood shake roof design. Other roofing material options include clay, concrete, stone and metal.
Gerety Building & Restoration offers a range of roofing services, including specializing in beautiful wood shake roofs. Learn more about our roofing services here.
