Roofs kindly provide a homeowner signs that they need replacing. You can save money by seasonally checking your roof for damage. Also, check after each storm. Although it’s not the only cause of damage, storm damage can quickly change a roof’s health by causing leaks and sags. Other influencing factors include mildew and mold. Catch the damage early to make repairs that can extend the roof’s life. Roof replacement costs about $27,000 in the US.
1. A Roof Age of 25 Years
How long a roof laughs does depend on its material. Asphalt shingle roofs last between 20 to 30 years, according to The National Association of Home Inspectors. Even if you don’t notice a problem from the ground, as your roof approaches its 20th birthday, have it inspected by a professional. They can tell you if it needs repair or replacement by a contractor. If the neighbors in your development have similar construction and their homes are the same age as yours, when they begin roof replacement, it’s a good sign you need to replace yours, too.
2. Shingles Buckling or Curling
Age, excess heat and moisture cause shingles to curl, as does poor installation. Shingles either cup, where the edges turn upward, or claw, where the edges remain attached, but the center of the shingle raises up forming a hill. Buckled or curled shingles become more vulnerable to ice and wind damage. They can break off, blow off or crack due to their rigid nature and inappropriate adhesion to the underlying roof frame. Evidence of buckling and curling provides one of the first signs of needing a new roof.
3. Missing or Broken Shingles
Check for broken or missing shingles. These stem from rain, snow and wind damage and cause roof leaks. Examine the roof’s valleys for damage signs. Call a professional repair person if you notice broken or missing shingles to have repairs or replacement conducted.
4. Sagging Roof
Examine the roof line which should be straight. If you notice a curve, dip or swag in it, you have a sagging roof. Roof sag indicates a replacement need. Generally, this sag indicates long-term water damage or excess weight of ice and snow on the roof. Since this can also mean damage to the attic decking, you immediately need a professional to make repairs or replace the roof. Your sag could become an actual hole pretty quickly.
5. Granules in the Gutters
If while cleaning your gutters, you notice lots of shingle granules among the debris and dirt get the roof inspected. Lots of loose granules indicate potential bare spots on shingles, also called shingle decay. Granules protect the asphalt from the sun. Bare spots result in leaks. Have a professional examine the roof immediately because the problem may be caused by a downspout placed in an inappropriate area or a poorly designed roof valley.
Don’t let roof damage turn into the bigger problem of interior home damage. You can easily spot an aging roof that needs help. Contact Borders Construction for help with roof repair and replacement.