Easy ways to tell when its time to replace your roof
When replacing old items like worn-out tires or a really old mattress, it’s usually pretty easy to tell when the time comes that they are in need of replacement. What about when it’s time to replace the roof on your house? Then can you tell me when it is time to consider a replacement? To help you mull over this big decision in a logical and relatively easy way, we have put together a list of 7 ways to tell when your roof is in need of replacement.
Sign number 1: There is visible wear and tear from the ground–If you can tell by looking from the ground that the roof is worn and broken down in some areas, then it might be time for a roof replacement. Check for missing or shingles with streaks on them and damage to chimneys, vents, gutters, and other large areas of wear and tear. Using a set of binoculars can also help give you a better vantage point when checking for damage.
Sign number 2: The roof is old–While a quality roof and installation can add years to the life of your roof, most manufacturers package their roofs with a twenty-year warranty, so if your roof hasn’t been replaced in well over 20 years, now is the time to start thinking about talking to a roofing contractor about a replacement!
Sign number 3: The roof has deteriorating shingles and missing granules– Missing or damaged shingles are problematic because once moisture gets into the next layer of the roof’s foundation, mold and rot will begin to deteriorate the roof. Aging roofs damaged by moisture are dangerous because a leak could potentially arise, allowing water into your attic. The lack of granules on shingles is often an indicator that a roof is ready to be replaced, especially if there is an accumulation of shingles with missing granules.
Sign number 4: Peeling or bubbling paint around the exterior roofline–One of the causes of peeling or otherwise damaged paint on ceilings and exterior walls is roof leaks. Take the time to observe the condition of the paint on all exterior walls, as one possible indicator of an old roof needing replacement is large sections of peeling or bubbling paint.
Sign number 5: Notice a rise in energy bills–Believe it or not, an increase in utility bills over time can be an indicator of a roof in need of replacing, mainly due to the compromise in the efficiency of the air conditioning and furnace systems cooling and heating your home, when water infiltrates beneath the roof due to damage, etc.
Sign number 6: you find leaks in the attic–One of the more obvious signs of a roof in distress, a leaky roof is usually an indicator that a roof is in need of major repairs, if not a total replacement. Once you notice a leak and trace it back to the origin, be sure to call your roofing contractor right away for immediate inspection, as a leaking roof can end up posing a safety hazard to you and your family.
While the above signs are not necessarily conclusive when deciding whether to replace your roof, they will give you a strong idea of how many different factors there are to consider when weighing your options. Contact us directly for a free estimate.