The roof plays an integral part in keeping your home’s curb appeal and ensuring your interiors remain warm and cozy. However, some homeowners don’t keep a close eye on what’s over their heads until it starts to leak. You, therefore, need to make regular estimates at least twice a year to spot potential problems. You don’t have to wait until your roof breaks apart or water starts to leak to make a replacement. Also, watch out for cracked, curling, or missing shingles. With time, roofs also reach the end of their useful years, so you’ll need a replacement.
Here are some tell-tale signs that you need to replace your roof:
Curing or Cracked Shingles
Check your shingles, especially after a heavy downpour, to ensure it’s in ship shape. Watch out for curling or cupped shingled. You may notice the edges on the shingles turn upwards, and the middle comes up. Also, look for random cracked shingles spread out throughout the roof, usually caused by wind damage. These are indications of potential leaks, so you will need to replace your roof. Although you may decide to make repairs if there are just patches of cracked shingles, it might be difficult to match the old colors, and your roof may soon look like a checkerboard.
Roof Leaks
The most obvious sign that your roof needs a replacement is when there is a leak. The attic is the perfect place to detect leaks. Therefore, make regular visits to the attic, mostly after heavy rains, and look out for any water intrusion. Also, if you can see some light as you look up your roof boards, there is a problem. You can also check on the exterior for ice dams. When ice dams form and the snow melts, the water runs down to the eaves then freezes again. If the water running down the roof encounters ice dams, it may get below your shingles and possibly get into your home.
Your Roof is About 20 Years Old
Today, many roofs have a high level of durability. For instance, asphalt shingles have a life expectancy of 15 to 20 years, while wood shingles can last about 25 to 30 years, but they need maintenance, affecting their lifespan. However, many factors will accelerate the aging of these roofs, so you’ll still need to be on the lookout. For instance, adverse weather conditions may lead to cracks or mold growth on your wood shingles. Also, in locations with high winds, asphalt shingles can come loose because they are very light. Other materials can have a longer lifespan, but you still need professional estimates to avoid leaks at least once a year. Even if the roof looks good from the ground, you need to have a thorough roof inspection that might reveal more problems.
Excessive Growths on the Roof
When moisture collects between your roof’s layers or in your attic without a way to escape, it will lead to mold and moss growth. With time, it will gradually kill your roof from the inside out. Some people overlook a moos growth as it makes their home look like a tale cabin in the woods. Yet, as rains continue, the excessive moss growth absorbs and holds water, making the shingles break down. Since the water doesn’t reach the gutters, the water can also seep under the shingles leading to permanent damage.
Call The Professional Roofers
A leaking roof is the last thing you would want to experience. If you have an aging roof or you spot any of the above signs, it’s time to make a replacement. For homeowners who may be torn between replacing and repairing, contacting a professional roofing company is the best decision. Feel free to request a free consultation with CasaBella Roofing for high-quality roof replacement, installation, and more.
