Most roofs exhibit clear signs when it’s time for replacement, such as missing shingles, leaks, and sagging areas; however, not all signs are immediately apparent. As your home’s first line of defense, your roof endures the relentless impact of sun, rain, snow, and more. Over time, wear and tear accumulate, making it essential to determine when your roof needs to be replaced.
Below, we’ll discuss how to tell if you need a new roof and what to do if it’s time to replace it.
How Do You Know It’s Time to Replace a Roof?
You’ll know it’s time to replace your roof if you see missing or cracked shingles, water damage, sunlight peeking through, or if your roof is over 20 years old. You can always invest in a professional inspection to gain an expert opinion.
Here are the top 11 definite warning signs you need a new roof.
1. Exceeded Its 20-30 Year Lifespan
If your roof is older than 20 to 30 years, it may be time to replace it. The aging process compromises the effectiveness of roofing materials, making your home more susceptible to damage from external elements.
2. Daylight Peeks Through
If you can see sunlight coming through your roof boards, it’s a sure sign that you need a new roof. This indicates potential leaks and suggests that your home is less energy-efficient.
3. Visible Water Damage and Leaks
Water stains inside the attic, on your ceiling, or on your walls are obvious signs that something is wrong with your roof. Persistent leaks can cause more significant damage, like mold and structural issues.
4. Sagging Roof
A sagging roof is a serious structural problem that needs swift attention. It could result from water damage, aging materials, or a compromised foundation.
5. Buckling or Curling Shingles
Shingles that are buckling or curling are no longer providing sufficient protection for your home. Buckling and curling can be caused by weathering, insufficient ventilation, or poor installation. If you notice either of these problems, you should replace your roof shingles.
6. Cracked or Damaged Shingles
One way to tell if a roof needs to be replaced is when there are several cracked or damaged shingles. Weather, heavy impact, inadequate ventilation, and freeze-thaw cycles can cause shingle damage. You should regularly inspect your roof to identify and replace weakened shingles before further damage occurs and you need a whole new roof.
7. Missing Shingles
Missing shingles expose your roof to weather and water, which makes it susceptible to leaks and damage. Quickly replacing missing shingles is vital for maintaining your roof’s integrity.
8. Finding Granules in the Gutters
Asphalt shingles often lose granules over time. If you see a lot of granules in your gutters, it’s a sign that your shingles are breaking down and may need to be replaced.
9. Moss or Algae Growth
If you see moss or algae on your roof, it’s probably retaining too much water. Too much moisture can lead to shingle decay, which is when you would need a new roof.
10. Neighbors Are Replacing Their Roofs
If several of your neighbors are installing new roofs, it might be a sign that yours needs replacing, too. Homes in the same neighborhood experience similar weather conditions, so your roof may also be damaged. Consider this a proactive warning to assess the state of your own roof.
11. Missing Gutter Guards, Flashing, or Fascia
If several of your neighbors are installing new roofs, it might be a sign that yours needs replacing, too. Homes in the same neighborhood experience similar weather conditions, so your roof may also be damaged. Consider this a proactive warning to assess the state of your own roof.
12. High Energy Bills
When your roof gets old, it loses its insulating properties and starts letting the cold and heat into your home. As a result, you might notice that your energy bills are increasing as you turn up the thermostat to keep up with the temperature fluctuations.
What to Do if You Need to Replace Your Roof
Identifying one or more of these warning signs is how to know when to replace your roof. Contact a professional roofing contractor like M&M Gutters to assess the damage and discuss your options for roof replacement.
How Often Should a Roof Be Replaced?
You should replace your roof every 20 to 30 years, regardless of your local climate. In snowy areas like Logan, roofs may wear out faster due to the heavy snowfall. In St. George, UV exposure can affect the quality of your home. Regular roof inspections can help you determine when a replacement is needed.
What Is the Average Age of a Roof Before Replacement?
The average lifespan of a roof is 20 to 30 years, but this timeline can vary depending on several factors, including weather patterns, material type, and the level of roof care.
Keep Your Home Safe With a Solid Roof
Protecting your home starts with a sturdy roof. By recognizing the signs you need a new roof, you can address issues proactively and prevent further damage to your home.
Still not sure how to tell if you need a new roof? We can help! Contact us today to speak with a professional about the best steps for your home.
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We at M&M Gutters and Exteriors hope that our guide has helped you find the right type of windows. If you are still undecided or need more information, look no further! Reach out to us, and our team will be more than happy to assist you!