You may think that the roof over your head is a minor detail, but weather conditions, the elements, and the weight of the support system around it can cause serious damage. The roof is one of the most important parts of your home, designed to protect you from the weather and all manner of airborne debris.
Most roofs are built to last approximately 20 years, but how long it lasts depends on how well you take care of them. Even if you have a two-story home and only live on the first floor, you’ll need a roof that’s strong enough to protect you.
The following are five signs that you should consider investing in a new roof before the old one collapses.
Roof Red Flags to Watch Out For
Sign #1: Your Roof is Beyond its Expected Life Span
The most obvious sign that you need a new roof is when it’s just old. No matter how well you care for your current roof, it will eventually be too old to fix. Even after the manufacturer’s warranty expires and the materials used to build the roof degrade, there’s not much you can do.
If you’re unsure how long your roof has been around, you should look for telltale signs of aging. A roof that is beyond its lifespan will easily show signs of deterioration.
This can be anything from nail pops to shingle curling to rusting of screws and nails. If you see these signs, it means that the roof is at the end of its life and you need to invest in a new one.
Sign #2: Your Roof has Sagging Spots
The sagging of your roof is a sign that it’s taking on more water than it can handle. When water penetrates your roof, it can cause decay and break down some of the materials used to construct it.
All roofs have their own weight limits, and any sagging is a sign that it’s not meant to hold up under the pressure. This weight can even lead to other structural problems, like your walls, floors, and ceilings.
Sign #3: Your Roof has Plenty of Moss
Moss can grow on your roof because it needs humidity to survive. Moss is a sign of excess moisture collecting on your roof, which can lead to other problems like rust.
The accumulation of moss isn’t just a cosmetic issue; it also affects the structural integrity of your roof. If a large area of the roof is covered in moss, it’s a sign that it’s too weak to support the weight of its structure.
Sign #4: Your Roof is Curling and has Lost Granule
The granules on your roof are there to protect it from damage and make it look nice. They keep the shingles in place and add a layer of protection against heat, rain, and wind.
Aging roofing can lead to granule loss, as the granules are no longer as strong as they once were. However, the granules are also not able to keep the shingles on the roof, which leads to curling.
Curling shingles are a sign that your roof needs to be replaced, but you should also inspect the shingles themselves.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Wait to Replace Your Roof When It’s Beyond Repair
You should always try to repair your roof if it breaks; these four signs are only there to remind you when the time comes to replace it. Once your roof is beyond repair, the money you spend on fixing it is often wasted because it won’t last.
The cost of a new roof is a bit more expensive than fixing your current one, but it is a worthwhile investment. If you notice any of the four signs, talk to an expert to see if it’s time to replace your roof.
How Can We Help You?
As an experienced roofing provider, 5 Star Roofer is your answer to all your roofing concerns. Our professionals will help you figure out the best plan of action for your home and will help you fix any issue you face.
From residential roofing to complete roof tear-offs, down to repairs and commercial roofing systems, we’ve got you covered. So, if you’re looking for roof contractors in Birmingham, AL, we’re here to help!