A roof is probably the most important part of your home. A strong roof protects your family in more than one way. Be it harsh weather, keeping you warm and cozy, and providing you with a shelter where you create memories with your loved ones.
It’s no good to have a damaged roof as it can put both you and your family in danger. And therefore, it’s your job as a homeowner to perform regular inspections, either by yourself or by getting it professionally done.
How to know you need a roof replacement? Well, here are 7 things you should be on the lookout for when inspecting a damaged roof.
Your Roof Has Aged
One of the most common reasons people forget when thinking about the need for a roof replacement is the roof’s age. As recommended by The National Association of Home inspectors, a basic asphalt roof should last anywhere between 20 to 30 years. Anything after 40 years may be a warning sign even though the roof looks perfect to the naked eye.
So before you check for other factors, you must know the ideal age of your roof.
Asphalt shingles usually need a replacement when they grow over 20 years. Wooden shingles typically last longer, up to 40 years. Clay tiles usually last over half a century. Metal roofing, on the other hand, can work flawlessly for up to 70 years. They aren’t however the most long-lasting. That spot is reserved for Slates- those stay strong for more than 100 years.
Compromised Energy Efficiency is a Sign of Needing a Roof Replacement
Did you know that the quality of your roofing has a direct impact on your electricity bill? This happens because when the roof is poorly insulated it puts a toll on the HVAC system causing it to overwork and consequently increases the electricity bill.
That’s not the only issue though. A poorly insulated roof can cause water damage and the roof may start to leak. The water damage can also make the material damp, and this moisture growth can lead to mold formation. The air quality of the house isn’t optimal either. If you think your house has poor insulation, you must consider getting it properly insulated or replaced right away.
Get a Roof Replacement if You Have a Roof Leak
Roof leaks are some of the most common indications of a dysfunctional roof. Typically, roof leaks are caused by either harsh weather or the aging of roofing equipment. Cracked flashings, broken shingles, cracked vents, clogged gutters, or broken chimneys; any of these can be the source of your roof leak.
The best way to spot any leaks is by visiting the attic and checking for any water leakage or accumulation, preferably after rainfall. A simple inspection should reveal any leaks present. You can also check your roof for ice dams. Ice dams usually happen when the snow on the roof melts & slides off towards the eaves and freeze up there again. This running water can enter your house through any possible gaps in the shingles. If not, it can clog your gutters, affect the water flow & cause new leaks due to water accumulation.
If you encounter some minor leaks, you can get them fixed. If the leaks are widespread throughout your roof, you may want to consider calling a Maryland roofing company and getting your entire roof replaced.
Growth of Moss or Mildew Indicates the Need for a New Roof
Vegetation on the roof is something no one likes to have. It’s not only damaging to the roof but it also looks bad and ruins the aesthetic of the house.
Vegetation on the roof, be it moss, mold or any other fungi, can invite insects to stay there or even crawl inside the house. Additionally, it can also create an unnecessary layer that soaks moisture- which can damage the roof.
It’s very tough to completely get rid of all the vegetation. The only way to do it is to get your roof replaced, but that’s really expensive. You can either schedule a roof repair or get on a ladder and DIY it. A cleaning solution and a broom should get the job done.
Look for Cracks on the Roof
Over time, due to long exposure to harsh weather, shingles on the roof develop cracks. These cracks are fairly easy to spot. A simple inspection of your roof should be enough for you to locate all the cracks.
Take note of all the places you find cracks. If the cracks are limited to a certain spot, you can consider replacing that section of the roof. If you find these cracks spread throughout the entire roof, you may need to get your entire roof replaced. It’s best if you do it as soon as possible.
If you’re unsure of the condition of your roof, you can ask for a professional roof inspection. It’s always best that way.
Missing Shingles are a Bad Sign
As basic as this sounds, missing shingles are nothing to be ignored. It’s okay if your roof has a few shingles missing, as it’s not that difficult to get them replaced. If you consider yourself to be skilled enough, you can do it yourself. But, it’s always better to have the professionals involved.
However, if you think that your roof has a lot of shingles missing, or even damaged to a point where they serve no function, contact a Southern Premier roofing expert as soon as possible. Ask them to make an inspection, and that should reveal whether or not you should get your roof replaced.
Can You See Sunlight Through the Roof? Call Us!
One of the easiest ways to look for damages to your roof is to check the attic. Head over to your attic, turn off any lights you might be having in the attic and look for any beams of light.
If you notice any beams of light, it means your roof has holes in it. And having a roof with holes is no good; it can let in water, dust, insects, etc. This can damage the roof over time.
Fixing this issue, however, is the easy part. All you need to do is replace singles in parts where there are holes. And you’re done. Although, it’s always best to get it done by professionals.
