Many signs indicate it is time to replace your roof. Roofs usually last between 20 and 30 years, but of course, this varies according to the quality of materials used and roofing contractor. This article offers helpful hints on how to know when you need a new roof.
Snow or Ice Accumulation
A heavy accumulation of snow or ice can cause roofs to collapse. If you have experienced 3-5 inches of snowfall recently, be cautious about walking on your roof as well as remove what remains promptly with a shovel. The same caution should be applied for ice dams which are caused by heat loss from inside your home preventing proper insulation from forming around your attic area.
Failure to remove these accumulations could result in serious damage requiring a roof replacement.
Curled or Warped Shingles
If your shingles are curling or coming up, this is a sign that they need to be replaced immediately. Curled shingles can lead to moss and mould growth as well as leakage into the home. If you notice any warping in your shingles, it is time for a change.
Warping occurs when the heat of the sun affects the granule on the asphalt-based material in your shingle and causes them to curl. Asphalt roofs should be replaced every 15-20 years, so if you have had yours longer than this, it may be time for a new roof.
Small Cracks and Holes in Shingle
Even if your roof contains small cracks or holes, it is still possible for them to leak without proper repair. To prevent leakage, be sure to patch any holes in the shingles before they get bigger. If you are unsure how to do this, some professional contractors can help you with simple repairs. If not repaired quickly, these small issues can become much larger requiring a much more extensive repair or even a full replacement if left too long.
Mould around Shingles
To check for mould on your shingles and other areas of your roof, look for mildew staining between the cracks and crevices of your shingles and on flat roofs around drain spouts and walls where is poor ventilation. While this does not always mean you need to replace your roof, it should be looked into by a professional who can properly diagnose the problem. Mould and mildew growth is often associated with leaky roofs that have been left untreated for too long.
Ceiling Dirt and Stains
When your ceiling begins to show stains from dirt or other debris accumulating, it is likely only a matter of time before leaks begin occurring in the rest of your home. If you notice any soiled spots on your ceiling or walls, be sure to clean them promptly as this will prevent problems down the road. The longer dirt sits on your ceiling and walls, the more difficult it will become to remove when water damage occurs.
Signs Of Water Damage
Watch for the following to determine if you have water damage on your roof: dark stains, excessive moisture or mould/mildew growth, damp insulation in the attic area and warped, curled or buckled shingles. Water can enter through a variety of ways including worn-out flashing around vents or chimneys, loose granules in the shingle causing cracks for water to seep through and a damaged membrane below a rubberized asphalt surface.
If left untreated for too long, these problems will only become worse with time which is why it is important to seek help from a professional contractor when you see any signs of water damage.
While roofs are designed to last 20 – 30 years on average, many different factors play into how long your roof will last. If you suspect that your roof needs to be replaced, there are experts available that can help assess the damage and provide a bid for replacement if necessary. You can also call on experts from this useful site, who can check your roof out for any potential problems with no obligation to replace it if it does not need to be done.