Over time, your roof will naturally come to its breaking point. No matter how sturdy it is and how regularly you inspect and maintain it, you’ll need a roof replacement at some point. Suppose you delay a roof repair or replacement project. In that case, it will result in more roofing problems, costing you more than you’ve expected. That’s why it’s crucial to know when is the time to have an overall roof replacement.
Let’s take a look at the indicators that you need a new roof. Each helps you plan more carefully and allocate more time to the project.
Your Roof Is About to Reach 25 Years of Service
When your roof reaches the 25-year mark or beyond, it is indeed time to replace it entirely. Asphalt shingle roofs should endure between 20 and 25 years. However, if you lay new shingles on top of old ones, they may not survive as long.
You can examine your improvement records or receipts to see when your roof was last replaced. Regardless of the use, most roofing systems endure up to two years.
Cupped, Clawed, or Curled Shingles
A shingle deformation is a telling indicator that your roof needs to be replaced. Some shingles, for example, may begin to claw or cup with time. When this happens, the shingles will look horrible and become less strong. Wouldn’t you rather not have a fragile roof over your head?
So, the next time you inspect your roof, look for shingle damage.
When you notice one, it could be due to excessive changes in temperature, insufficient ventilation, or improper installation.
Missing Shingles
Shingles that are missing are never a good sign. After all, they’re in charge of safeguarding your home’s structural base. Typically, shingles disintegrate when they age. The adhesive that holds them in place begins to break from the course beneath.
At this point, even the slightest gust of wind is enough to blow a shingle or two away.
If you notice many of the shingles missing, it’s best to replace your roof entirely. But if you only spot one or two shingles missing, you can conduct a quick repair to have your roof back in its prime condition.
Gutters Clogged With Grit
Asphalt shingles have grit or grains on their surfaces, which serve as a barrier between the sun and the shingles. This barrier will deteriorate with time, allowing even more granules to accumulate in your gutters. This can be a significant problem since a lack of grit can make the shingles curl, bend, or disintegrate.
Pieces of Broken Shingles in Your Yard
Roof shingles will not always fall off your roof entirely. You may notice
small parts of shingles chipped off deteriorating roofs.
However, these aren’t always clearly visible. Therefore, if you discover small fragments of shingles in your yard, properly inspect them to verify if they are genuine shingle pieces.
Indoor Water Damage
Noticeable water damage in your home’s interior is a sure sign that your roof needs a complete replacement immediately. If neglected, water damage can lead to major structural issues. Water leaks leave marks on your ceilings and walls, and they don’t disappear on their own. It’s best to be more observant about water leaks.
Water leaks can also cause significant damage to your interior wall’s paint. You’ll notice water stains and marks on your wall and ceiling, which is a pain in the eye. This can result in a new painting project for your home. And in this scenario, you may hire a painting contractor to fix the issue.
However, it can be confusing to determine the particular cause of water damage as it can be the result of damaged shingles, ice dams, deteriorated flashing, and poor installation.
Regardless of the reason, it’s important to fix water damage as soon as possible. A leaky roof can result in moldy shingles and lead to other problems like attracting termites.
Your Roof Is Sagging
Sagging is one of the most apparent symptoms of needing a new roof.
After all, most roofs get to this stage by absorbing an excessive amount of water, snow, or hail.
In any case, if you notice drooping on your roof, act quickly because it might lead to more severe roof and structural damage later on.
Regardless, your contractor will most likely remove the shingles and the framing beneath them, completing the entire job for you.
Shingles with Cracks
Cracked shingles are one of the most visible signs that your roof needs to be replaced. They appear to be like cracks running across two to three tiles. However, take note that these aren’t real cracks. Instead, these tears are caused by prolonged heat expansion and contraction cycles.
When the temperature rises too high, your roof may become heated, forcing the shingles to expand. Meanwhile, very cold temperatures may cause them to constrict.
Your Neighbors Are Changing Roofs
Pay attention if you have nearby neighbors, especially if they have been around for a long time. And if you see them completely replacing their roofs, it might be time to follow their lead. After all, most of the houses in the neighborhood are very similar in age.
Furthermore, most of these residences employ the same materials that the builders purchased.
In addition, most roofs decay at a comparable rate. So, if you notice a neighbor or two replacing their roofs, it could be time for you to do the same!
The Bottom Line
Schedule biannual roof inspections to avoid having to replace your roof too soon. You may prevent further damage to your property by doing routine maintenance. In this case, you may be able to avoid buying a new roof altogether.
However, if you’re unsure how to assess the general condition of your roof, you can contact a professional roofing contractor. They can also assist you with professional roof repairs and replacements.