As a homeowner, having a quality roof is essential for keeping the elements out and protecting the building itself. Unfortunately, roofs don’t last forever and have a finite lifespan. Depending on the material, some roofs last longer than others, and most roofing systems will require regular maintenance and repairs.
Almost every homeowner will need roof repairs at some point, but there may come a time when the signs will indicate that you’re due for a roof replacement. Here are a handful of those signs:
1. Your Roof Wasn’t Installed Properly
Regardless of how old your roof is or what quality materials were used, an improperly installed roof can cause major problems that will cost you a fortune to fix. The sooner you replace it, the better.
For example, many DIY hobbyists attempt to install a roof and end up roofing over the flashing for vents and chimneys. This completely defeats the purpose of the flashing, which is to direct water away from the protrusions. Not only that, but it can actively cause leaks.
A lot of specialized knowledge is applied during a roofing job, including details like where to place nails, how many to use, and how to hammer them in at the right angle. This seems trivial, but an improperly driven nail can create a leak. Multiply that by an entire roof of improperly driven nails, and you’ll have a big problem.
2. Your Roof Is Old
Knowing your roof is older, if you’ve been dealing with persistent issues or frequent repairs, that’s a good sign that you may need a new roof. To get a good idea, compare the age of your roof to the average lifespan of a roof made from the same materials. For example, asphalt shingles typically last 15-30 years, metal roofs can last 40-70 years, and tile or slate can last between 50-100 years.
If your roof is nearing the end of its useful lifespan, or if it’s long past, there’s a good chance you need a new roof. Aside from age, you’ll see plenty of other signs that it’s time, like mold, leaks, water damage, missing or broken shingles, and areas that sag.
3. You Haven’t Treated the Moss or Algae in Years
In Areas that Tend to Have Rapid Moss and Algae Growth, You’ll Need to Use a Granular Moss Removal Product Each Year. You Just Sprinkle It on Top of Your Roof a Week or So Before It Rains, and It Will Gently Remove Existing Moss. if You Skip This Process for Years at A Time, the Moss and Algae Can Start to Grow Underneath Your Shingles, Causing Them to Lift and Allow Moisture Into the Roof. when It’s Just a Handful of Shingles that Need to Be Replaced, a Simple Repair Is Enough. However, if The Majority of Your Roof Is Damaged, a Full Roof Replacement Is Likely Needed.
While You Can Certainly Hire Someone to Replace Your Shingles Instead of Replacing Your Whole Roof, the Problem Is that The Damage Will Already Be Done, and New Shingles Won’t Fix Soaked and Moldy Insulation, or Rotting Plywood Sheathing. a Full Roof Replacement Will Address These Issues.
4. You Have a Major Leak
With Some Exceptions, Major Roof Leaks Often Indicate It’s Time for A Roof Replacement. the Problem with Leaks Is They Typically Go Undetected for Months or Years, and By the Time They Become Visible, They’ve Already Done Serious Damage to The Entirety of Your Roof. It Can Start Off as A Small Drip from A Busted Water Pipe, and If It Doesn’t Impact Water Pressure, You’d Never Know. Over Time, However, that Drip Continues to Soak the Plywood Sheathing and Insulation, until You Start Noticing Water Spots in The Ceiling. at This Point, the Damage Is Likely Already Extensive.
Depending on How Many Leaks You Have, It Might Be Better to Replace Your Roof than Manage Individual Repairs. You’ll Have to Tear the Roof up In Large Areas Anyway to Replace the Insulation and Sheathing, so You May as Well Have Everything Done Properly at Once. when Done Right, a New Roof Installation Won’t Leak.
Get a Roof Inspection
These are just some of the signs your roof may need to be replaced. The best way to know for sure is to call a professional roofer to come out and perform an inspection. Most companies offer free inspections, so you have nothing to lose. Don’t put it off. If needed, a new roof will protect your investment and help maintain its full market value.
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