A roof is one of the most overlooked parts of a house because you rarely see it from inside your home. Therefore, the issues are difficult to spot unless you view them from the outside, so you might believe that the roof still works. After all, it’s still up there.
Unfortunately, your roof can still have lifespan issues. Keep reading to learn about spotting signs of trouble and extending your roof’s life.
Inspect for Damage
Sometimes, it’s as simple as looking up to see if your roof needs repair. Search for any missing shingles or puddles of water on the roof.
You might get to see that a shingle is missing because the nail hole is still there, or you could witness a small crack that indicates a leak.
Look Inside
If you don’t want to climb up on the roof, look inside your attic. Roof leaks can cause rot in your roof deck and ceiling.
Once rot starts, it can damage your wood framing and wood floors. Look for water stains, discolored wood, and any signs of mold.
Check the Gutter
Gutters are inexpensive to replace and usually easy to find at your home improvement store. Check your gutters to see any accumulated debris, then clean them.
Make sure the downspouts work correctly to direct rainwater away from your house.
Keep the Roof Clean
If you have a small roof, you may be surprised at how dirty it can get. Be sure to clean off the roof after any significant rainfall.
A little bit of care and maintenance will go a long way toward extending the life of your roof.
Make Sure You’re Comparing the Same Thing
The roof of a new house will have different life expectancies than one in an older home. Asphalt shingles are an excellent choice for new builds because they’re inexpensive, but you should understand the differences when it comes to an older roof.
- Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are an excellent choice for an older home because they’re virtually maintenance-free. They hold up exceptionally well and last a long time.
However, if you have a new home, you need to evaluate the roof on a case-by-case basis. If you have a metal roof and want to extend its life, be sure to keep it clean by removing any debris that collects on it.
- Wood Shingles
Wood shingles are often a popular choice because they look great and are relatively inexpensive. Unfortunately, they don’t last as long as other materials.
If you have a wood shingle roof over ten years old, it’s probably time to consider a replacement.
- Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are less expensive and easy to find, but they have a shorter lifespan than other options. Depending on your location and the age of the shingles, you may need to start thinking about a replacement after about fifteen years.
If you have asphalt shingles, start thinking about replacing them every twenty years.
Is It Time to Replace Your Roof?
If your roof shows signs of wear and tear, has damage, or leaks, you might consider replacing it. If you require assistance in changing your roof, contact a roofing contractor for a free estimate.
Conclusion
Your roof protects you and your family from natural elements, so you must make sure it’s in great shape. You should extend the life of your roof by caring for it, but if you think you’re starting to reach the end of its life, it’s best to replace it before it becomes a safety hazard.
If you need the help of a roofing company in Birmingham, turn to 5 Star Roofer. We are a fully licensed and insured service company offering residential and commercial roofing. Call us today.