Often, homeowners don’t know when their roof needs to be replaced. The issue often gets lost in the shuffle of house buying and selling. The first step in determining when it is time for a new roof is to find out how old your current roof is. Generally, the older the roof is, the sooner you should replace it. If you suspect your roof needs replacement, make an appointment with a reputable roofing contractor and ask for an estimate.
Cracked shingles are a common sign that your roof needs replacing. This often results from wind damage. Although you can repair a cracked shingle, it may be necessary to replace the entire roof within three to five years. Additionally, cracks in the gutters indicate that you need to replace your roof.
Other signs that your roof needs replacement include rotting wood boards, missing flashing, and stains. Old tar and cement flashings are not durable enough for your roof, and will need to be replaced. Additionally, a droopy, sagging roof needs replacement. This means that it is leaking or has water damage hidden inside.
Roof repairs are a common band-aid solution, but they will only fix the problem temporarily. The sooner you get a new roof, the sooner you can get the necessary repairs done. Replacing the roof early will also prevent more expensive repairs from occurring and will protect your home for years. Even though a new roof may seem like a major investment, it is well worth the investment.
One of the most common reasons for a roof replacement is due to storm damage. Storms can knock down trees and cause debris to fall onto the roof, causing shingles to fall off. In some cases, storm damage is so severe that the entire roof needs to be replaced. A new roof will also add to your property’s curb appeal.
Other common signs of when a roof needs replacement are obvious leaks. A leaking roof can be caused by several factors, including weather damage or aged materials. When a leak is present, the roof will allow water to leak into the home and cause puddles to be visible. Small leaks may go undetected until they become large enough to make it impossible to repair.
Another sign that a new roof is needed is if shingles begin curling. This can be caused by aging, or it can occur due to high wind. A curled roof will be more susceptible to leaks.