Signs That You Need to Replace Your Roof
Your roof is possibly the most vital part of your home, it holds the walls in place and keeps the weather where it’s supposed to be; outside. Unfortunately, like any other part of your home, roofs eventually wear and weather over time. It is essential to recognise when it’s time to repair and, or replace your roof so that your home and family are safe, secure and warm. To help you navigate your roof’s current status we’ve detailed some tell-tale signs that indicate it’s time to replace your roof below.
You Notice Missing Shingles
If your roof is a traditional build you’ll have shingles or tile. Missing shingles are a telltale sign that your roof needs to be repaired or replaced. If the missing shingles cover a large area, you might need to replace the entire roof as there could be underlying structural issues causing this. You can identify missing shingles by looking for bare or exposed spots on the roof.
In addition to missing tiles, broken or cracked shingles indicate that your roof needs a little TLC. Usually, you can replace the damaged or missing shingles, but it’s crucial to determine the cause before replacing them to ensure you fix the root cause of the problem.
You See Sagging and Leaks in Your Attic
Another tell tale sign your roof may need some attention is leaks in your attic. If you notice any water seeping through the roof or running down the walls, especially in the winter months, it’s time to act quickly.
Water damage can be costly, and it’s vital to have the roof fixed or replaced, depending on the extent of the damage, as soon as possible. Sagging plaster or floorboards as well as bowed joists in the attic is another sign that your roof requires maintenance, repairs or replacing.
Sagging and bowed joists indicate the structural integrity of the roof is beginning to fail, weak, requires reinforcement or to be replaced completely. If, whilst you’re inspecting your roof and notice these problems you should seek professional assistance to ensure the problems are resolved.
Your Roof Is Over 20 Years Old
If your roof has asphalt shingle instead of tiles, you’ll want to consider replacing them and/or the roof after 20 years. Asphalt shingles have a typical lifespan between 15 to 20 years, depending on the climate you live and how well they have been maintained.
If your roof is older than 20 years and you notice any of the signs listed above, it’s definitely time to replace it. If you’re not sure how old your roof is or unsure about its condition, ensure you enlist the help of a roofing specialist to inspect your roof, to determine whether it needs to be replaced.
A local roofing company can identify potential problems and help you decide if a replacement is necessary. The earlier you replace your roof, the better off you’ll be in the long run.
Dark Streaks On Your Roof
Dark streaks on your roof usually indicate algae or mould growth. Algae and mould can damage your roof over time, making them less effective at protecting your home from weather-related damage. If you notice any dark streaks on your roof, it’s vital to have them inspected and, if necessary, repair or replace your roof before the damage worsens.
In most cases, you can prevent algae and mould growth by regularly inspecting your roof and cleaning it often. However, if the streaks are too severe or have been left untreated for too long, you may need to replace the roof.
If you notice any of the above signs, it’s time to replace your roof. It can save you money in the long run and will keep your home and family safe. If you are unsure whether or not your roof needs to be replaced, as always, contact a professional roofing company. They will be able to tell you if a roof replacement is necessary and provide you with the best options for your home.
