It’s difficult to overestimate the value of a good, dependable roof – it protects you from rain and snow, keeps you warm at night, and keeps you and your loved ones safe from the outdoor elements. This is why it’s critical to keep an eye on your roof and regularly examine it for deterioration symptoms. If you detect any of the following roof warning signs and respond quickly, you may be able to prevent more costly repairs in the future.
Common Signs That You Need A New Roof
A roof nearing the end of its useful life may exhibit various warning signs, including:
1. Roof Leaks
Roof leaks are one of the most visible signs that your roof is deteriorating. Go up to your attic regularly, ideally shortly after a rainstorm, to check for roof leaks. Look for indicators of water incursion, as significant leaks in your home are most likely to start here.
If the leaks are limited to a specific region of your roof, you may not require a total roof replacement. However, we’d recommend getting a professional to do a thorough evaluation. Putting off roof repairs may cause the condition to worsen, necessitating more complex and costly repairs. Keep in mind that skilled roofers typically provide low-cost roof inspections that can help you avoid more costly solutions in the future.
2. You’ve Had Your Roof At Least 20 Years
Most roofs have a lifespan of 20 to 25 years. So, if your roof is growing old, it’s time to contact a local roofing firm for an estimate. You may either totally replace your roof or cover the current shingles.
Overlaying is the process of installing a fresh layer of shingles over the old. It can be around 25% less expensive than a complete roof replacement and give your property a new look, but it’s usually best to rip off the old roof and start over. Roof replacement allows you to catch issues lying beneath the shingles and has a longer lifespan than overlays.
3. Sagging Roof
Sagging indicates that stored moisture has rotted away roof boards. A drooping, sagging roof should be replaced immediately to prevent further damage to your property. Examine the surface for evidence of trapped moisture, decaying boards, or drooping areas, particularly at the lowest places of the roof.
Standing back from your house, say across the street, and looking at it from various angles is an excellent way to view this. The lines of a home’s roof should be straight. Thus indicators of drooping and slumping should be obvious when they occur.
4. Curling or Buckling Shingles
Examine your roof by taking a stroll around your house. One of the significant indicators you need a new roof is buckling or curling shingles. Buckling appears to be caused by issues beneath a shingle forcing it upward. Curling, on the other hand, occurs when the sides of a shingle are turned outward.
Excessive moisture is frequently the cause of buckling or curling. A lack of ventilation is also a contributing factor. Another problem is the increasing age of the roof.
5. You Can See Sunlight Passing Through
The attic is the first thing that comes to mind when people want to inspect their roof conditions. If you can see daylight streaming through the roof boards, you have a problem. While you’re up there, keep an eye out for any signs of dampness. Water stains indicate a leaking roof on the roof boards or moisture in the insulation.
Conclusion
As long as you keep your inspections up-to-date, an early roof replacement isn’t necessary. As long as you keep these five warning signs in mind, you can make effective decisions with a single observation. It’s also crucial to have a professional roofing company evaluate your roof regularly. The right contractor can provide you with cost-effective ways to afford long-term solutions.
If you need a roofing company in Birmingham, turn to 5 Star Roofer. We offer residential and commercial roofing services to clients in Jefferson, Shelby, Tuscaloosa, Huntsville, Walker, St Clair, Mobile, Baldwin, and Blount County areas. Schedule a free consultation with us today!
