A roof serves to protect a home from the elements; unfortunately, however, roofs don’t last forever. Numerous varieties of roofs are available from which to choose, shingled roofs are the most common type of roofing installed on private homes. Shingled roofs have an average lifespan of approximately 20 years. Most roofing issues can be repaired by a professional, but if the problem is not remedied within a reasonable time frame it can get to the point that a new roof will become a necessity.InstructionsExamine your roof for signs of buckling. Buckling, according to Patton General Contracting, occurs when a roof is not properly ventilated or installed, or when new shingles are laid without removing the old ones. Buckling in several areas of your home’s roof is a sign that it may need to be replaced.
Check the ground around the perimeter of your home for shingles or pieces of shingles that may have blown off your roof. Excessive loss of shingles may indicate a new roof is in order.
Good Tips:
- Note any sagging in any of the ceilings of your home. Sagging ceilings are indicative of water damage caused by roof leaks. Check your attic for sagging as well, since this is often the first area of the home in which water damage becomes apparent.
- Check any spots of discoloration on your roof, determining whether or not they are caused by moss or algae growth on the roof shingles. Moss and algae should be slick to the touch and are the common result of trapped moisture in your roof. A roof that is not properly resistant to moisture may be prone to leaks.
- Check your roof for rotting shingles. Rotting shingles contain holes or show signs of substantial deterioration. If the shingles on your roof that you can see have begun to rot, there is a high chance that the rot is occurring in areas you cannot see as well. A rotting roof should be replaced before further damage can occur, according to Patton General Contracting.
- Have a termite inspection done on your roof. The area between the shingles and the roof’s insulation is the perfect breeding ground for termites. Termites will gradually eat away at roof supports and are notoriously difficult to get rid of. An extensive termite infestation in your roof is just cause to invest in a new one.
- Consider the age of your roof and the cost of repairs. If your roof is more than 20 years old, the cost of repeated roof repairs can rapidly surpass the price of a new roof. In such a case, opting for a roof replacement may be the most financially sound option.
- Think about your plans for the future. If those plans include selling your home, you may consider replacing an aging roof even if it does not show any current signs of deterioration. A new roof is an attractive feature for buyers and increases your property value.
- Get the roof inspected. The only sure way to know if you need a roof replacement is to have the roof inspected by a professional. Find a roofing company in your area that offers free estimates for roof damage. A roofer can tell you whether any damage he finds can be easily repaired or if a new roof is a better option.
