Your roof is a critical part of your house. When functioning properly, it protects your home from water damage and exposure to the elements. But your roof will start to show signs of wear over time and it’s easy to ignore it until it has a major problem. It’s best to be proactive and be on the lookout for early signs a roof will need replacing or repair. Proper maintenance of all parts of your home helps ensure it stays in good condition to maximize value and protect other parts of the home. The following signs are good indicators that a roof needs replacing:
- Water Damage
Water marks and peeling paint on walls and/or ceilings, especially upstairs or in an attic all indicate a leaking roof. Although homeowners can do basic visual inspections, call in a professional roofer for an inspection once a year. This inspection could save you thousands of dollars in repair costs by catching minor damage before it turns into a major problem. A roofing professional also has the tools and experience to get up on your roof safely to check for damage.
- The Roof Has Outlived its Lifespan
Depending on the material, the lifespan of a roof is generally between 20 and 50 years, but it varies by the roofing material.
- Asphalt shingles tend to last anywhere from 10 to 20 years depending on the climate.
- Metal roofs last 30 to 50 years.
You should know when your roof was installed so you can estimate its lifespan. If you’re not sure when your roof was installed, you can check home improvement records to find out. Lifespan also depends on installation type. If the roof was installed over another layer and is more than 20 years old, chances are you need a new roof.
- Roof Sagging
Sagging is a sure sign that trapped moisture has rotted away boards under the roof that need replacing before further damage occurs to your home. Check the roof’s surface for signs of trapped moisture, rot, or sagging, especially at the lowest points in the roof.
A good way to see this is to stand back from your property and look at it from different angles. A home’s roof should be straight along its lines, so signs of sagging and slumping should be easily noticeable if it’s occurring.
- Growth Has Taken Over
Growth, such as moss, mold and fungi indicate trapped moisture, which is a bad sign. To get rid of this growth, use a stiff brush while being careful to address any underlying problems. If obvious growth remains after brushing, contact a professional to get the roof properly inspected and cleaned.
- Damaged Shingles
When shingles start to curl or buckle, it’s a sign that they’re no longer properly attached and have probably sustained damage. A shingle’s curved surface can be caught by wind, leading to further damage. Sometimes, a professional roof repair company can replace specific shingles, but the problem can sometimes be greater than that.
- Missing Shingles
High winds and storms often cause shingles to lift or fly off completely. You may be able to replace a shingle or two, but the need for repair depends on the missing shingle’s specific location and the condition of those surrounding it.
- Missing Flashing, Gutter Guards or Fascia
Similar to shingles, if any of the roof’s supporting structures are cracked or missing, it’s a red flag. Proper support is needed to ensure the roof is structurally sound and not at risk of collapse.
- High HVAC Bills
A good roof can help keep the should keep your heated or cold air inside, reducing your energy bills but any leaks in the roof can allow air to escape. Also, the color and material of your roof can make a difference. In warmer months, lighter colored shingles or reflective surfaces, like a metal roof, help to reflect the sun.
- A Poor Roof Inspection Report
If you’ve done your part by having regular inspections performed on your roof but a roofing contractor performs an inspection and finds major problems, replacing the roof if usually more cost-effective than paying for recurring repairs.
If you need a professional roof inspection or complete roof replacement by a roofer in Springfield IL, call Capital City for affordable and reliable service!
