How do You Know When You Need a New Roof? Many homeowners find themsevles asking the question.
Typical asphalt shingle roofs will last homeowners about 20 years as long as they are properly maintained. However, this lifespan can depend on many other factors, like the climate, the way the roof was installed, and more.
Because of this, you may want to learn how to recognize if you need a roof replacement. Are you wondering, “how do you know when you need a new roof?”
Keep reading this guide for the most common signs that your home needs a roof replacement and to learn more about common roof problems.
Frequent Leaks
Often, homeowners don’t realize that their roof is damaged until it starts to leak after a storm. A leaky roof is a serious problem for homeowners. Not only does it show damage to your roof, but it can also damage your drywall, paint, and your belongings inside your home.
If you see water dripping from your ceiling or other signs of water damage on your roof, you need to get it fixed as soon as possible.
Organic Buildup
Another easily visible sign that you need to replace your roof is if there is organic buildup on your roof. Things like algae, mold, and moss can easily build up on an old roof.
Not only is this an eyesore for homeowners, but it can also be a sign of a worse problem. This is because these organic materials need moisture to thrive. If they are growing on your roof, you may have problems with roof leaks and moisture in your roof.
This is because loos shingles can trap moisture in your roof, which can eventually lead to rot and worse structural damage. If you notice dark streaks on your roof, this is likely organic buildup and your roof may need to get replaced.
Damage to Roofing Materials
Next, you may notice that older roofs have damage to the roofing materials. As your roof gets older, it experiences more wear and tear from the elements, which can lead to shingle damage.
For example, your shingles might begin to lose their granules. You may notice particles of shingles in your gutter that washed down during recent storms.
Another common issue with older roofs is missing shingles. As the roof ages and the materials start to break down, something as simple as a wind storm can tear the shingles off of your roof. This will expose the more vulnerable parts of your roof and can lead to worse damage.
While you can simply replace these roofing materials, you may need to get a roof replacement if the damage has spread across a large portion of your roof.
Other things that you should keep an eye out for are tears in shingles, curling shingles, and decaying shingles.
Structural Problems With Your Roof
Structural problems are another serious roofing issue that you must resolve immediately. As was mentioned before, moisture trapped between shingles can lead to rotting roofing materials, which can lead to structural damage to your roof.
Often, you can identify structural problems if you notice sagging spots in your roof or ceiling. If you touch these areas, they might feel soft. If you wait too long to replace your roof, this moisture may cause more damage to the internal roofing materials and will be much more expensive to replace.
Plus, it can even cause your roof to break down completely. If you are wondering, “how do I know if I need a new roof”, this type of structural damage is one of the most serious signs to be aware of.
Age of Roof
Even if your roof is in great condition and you haven’t experienced any issues, you may need to replace your roof if it is getting too old. As was mentioned before, typical residential roofs will last for about 20 years unless you paid for more durable roofing materials.
If your roof is 15 to 20 years old, it may be wise to save up for a replacement. Replacing old roofs can prevent unnecessary damage to your roof in the future and is an investment that will last for years.
Frequent Repairs
You also may need to replace your roof if you are having to frequently repair your roof. Old roofs are more susceptible to damage, so you may find that after every storm your roof starts to leak or you lose shingles.
While you could continue to pay for roof repairs, you may save money in the long run by simply replacing your roof. The cost of roof replacement is an investment, but it can help you avoid these unnecessary repairs.
Professional Recommendation
Finally, you should get a roof replacement if you get a professional recommendation from a roofing company. As someone without any experience in the roofing industry, you may not be able to recognize the warning signs of damage to your roof.
However, a professional roofer will be able to tell almost instantly whether you need to repair or replace your roof.
Most companies offer a free roofing inspection to their clients. If you get a free inspection, you can get a professional recommendation for the best course of action to take with your roof.
How Do You Know When You Need a New Roof? Learn More Today
How do you know when you need a new roof? While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, learning more about these signs of roof damage can help you decide whether repairing roof damage or replacing your roof is the better choice.
If you need help installing new roofs, Big Time Roofing can help! We specialize in residential roofing repair and replacement and can help you find the best service for your needs.
Contact our team to learn more about our services or to discuss your roof replacement budget.
How Do You Know When You Need A New Roof (FAQ)
- What is the blog “How do you know when you need a new roof” about? The blog is about understanding the various signs and signals that indicate the need for roof replacement. It provides insights about the life expectancy of different types of roofing materials, common problems in roofing, and maintenance tips to prolong the life of your roof.
- What are the signs that indicate I might need a new roof? The blog discusses several signs that you might need a new roof, including but not limited to: shingle granules in the gutters, curled or buckling shingles, age of the roof, sagging roof deck, leaks, and light coming through the attic.
- Is the age of the roof a determinant for replacement? Yes, the age of your roof is a crucial determinant for a roof replacement. Different types of roofing materials have varying lifespans. For instance, a typical asphalt shingle roof lasts around 20 to 25 years. However, if your roof is well over 20 years old, it may need replacement.
- How often should I have my roof inspected? It’s recommended to have your roof professionally inspected at least once a year. Regular inspections can help detect minor issues before they turn into major problems.
- What’s the average cost to replace a roof? The cost to replace a roof varies depending on several factors including the size of the roof, the type of materials used, and the region you live in. It’s best to get multiple quotes from licensed contractors to get an accurate estimate.
- What type of roofing material lasts the longest? Certain materials like slate, copper, and tile roofs can last over 50 years. However, they are more expensive than other materials like asphalt shingles, which have a shorter lifespan.
- Can I replace my roof myself? While it’s possible for homeowners with DIY skills to replace their own roofs, it’s generally recommended to hire a professional roofing contractor. Roofing involves significant work, safety risks, and can impact the structural integrity of your home if not done correctly.
- What should I look for when hiring a roofing contractor? When hiring a roofing contractor, you should look for licensing, insurance coverage, local references, extensive warranties, and reasonable pricing.
- How long does it take to replace a roof? On average, a roof replacement can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks depending on the size of the roof, weather conditions, and the type of roof being installed.
- Does a new roof add value to my home? Yes, a new roof can add significant value to your home. It’s one of the key things potential home buyers look at, and can influence their decision to purchase. A new roof can also enhance the curb appeal of your home.
- Do I have to leave my home while my roof is being replaced? Not necessarily. Most roofing work can be completed during the day while you’re out or within your home. However, there may be some noise and disruption involved. It’s best to discuss this with your roofing contractor.
