How to Tell You Need a New Roof
Roofs are built to last a while, but over time they can deteriorate and they will eventually need replaced. Roofs are typically replaced every 25 years, but there are several factors such as the type of weather that can affect that. Some problems, such as leaks, are more noticeable, while others can only be seen with a trained eye. To be sure that your roof is in good condition you can either call a roofing company to do a maintenance check, or you can determine if there are any problems that need fixed yourself. Since not everyone has the money to pay for yearly maintenance checks, we have provided 7 things to look for to determine if you need a new roof!
Damaged, Cracked, or Curled Shingles
Keep an eye out for any cracks in the shingles, lifted or broken shingles that are exposing nails, shingles that are broken in half, curled around the edges, or have indentations on them. These damages were more than likely caused from a storms over the years and will need replaced to prevent water from leaking into your house. Make sure to check your gutter for shingle debris, too, as it means your shingles are probably near the end of their life expectancy and are starting to disintegrate.
2. Damaged Vents
When checking your roof, make sure you check around the bottoms of vents to make sure they aren’t cracked or damaged. If they are, then water is more than likely getting into your roof and possibly leaking into your home. There should be no rotting or cracks anywhere, no discoloration, and it should be properly held down to the roof. If your vents show any of these signs you will need to get a repair done, or possibly even a roof replacement depending on the condition of the rest of your roof.
3. Cracked/Rusted Chimney Flashing
Like with vents, you need to check around the chimney (and any other protruding surfaces such as skylights) to make sure there are no signs of damages. Rusty flashing, cracks, or discoloration are all signs that it is in need of repair.
4. Moss on Shingles
While moss isn’t always a serious issue that needs fixed, if left alone to grow long enough without getting treated it will trap moisture, freeze, and then cause granules of the shingles to break off. Although you can simply scrape the moss off, it can be tricky because it can damage the surface of the shingles and unless you get it treated it will grow back again.
5. Dark Spots/Streaks on Roof
Dark spots are caused from a hardened airborne algae, and while like moss on roofs it’s not necessarily a cause for concern it can lead to more serious issues down the road. It can also cause moisture to become trapped, especially if left alone for years. To prevent any problems, it is best to replace the shingles.
6. Your Roof Sags
A sagging roof could be caused by the framing, but it could also be caused by becoming water-boarded. If you notice any part of your roof is sagging, and accompanied by damaged shingles, signs of a leak, or mold, then it is important and very urgent that you get a roofing contractor to come out and take a look. If left alone, a sagging roof could cave in.
7. Mold Along Roof + Inside Your Attic
If you notice mold is growing in your attic, on your ceiling, or outside where the roof meets an exterior wall, then there is definitely moisture getting in from under the shingles. If you notice mold growth you will need to get that fixed ASAP, as not only is it dangerous to live in a house with mold growing, but because it can cause the wood to rot and destroy the framing.
