Your roof is one of the most integral contributors to the overall health of your home, but how often do you actually check-in on it? Even though your roof may be sort of “out-of-sight, out-of-mind”, there’s still some warning signs that your roof is aging and in need of replacement. But how do you know if it is time to look into your options for a few new shingles or a complete roof replacement? We’ve created this helpful list of questions to help you determine whether it’s time to start looking into a new roof now:
How old is your roof?
How old is your roof? If your roof is more than 15 years old, it may be time to consider replacement. Asphalt shingles have a lifespan of roughly 20 years, but if you live in an area with heavy winds or near saltwater, they may need replacing after only 12 to 15 years.
If you’re unsure about whether or not it’s time for a new roof, here are some signs that indicate it might be:
- Missing shingles
- Fading or discoloration of the shingles due to sun exposure
- Curling at the edges where shingles meet eaves (also called “curl” or “buckle”)
Have you had a roof inspection recently?
If you haven’t had your roof inspected recently, it might be time. A professional inspection can tell you a lot about the condition of your roof and whether or not it will need replacement in the future.
While some homeowners opt for a general contractor to inspect their homes, others prefer hiring a roofer since they already have experience with this type of work. Either way, hiring someone who has experience inspecting roofs is important because they will be able to give you an accurate assessment of what needs to be done with your property.
Do you have a Leaking Roof?
If your roof is leaking, you’re likely to be able to spot the damage. Look for water stains on walls, ceilings and floors — especially near beams or other structural elements. Check the gutters for debris buildup that could be blocking rainwater from getting away from your home. Also check the attic and basement for signs of mold or mildew growth due to high moisture levels in those areas. If you notice any discoloration or wet spots on the ceiling below where your attic fan is located, this would indicate a problem with ventilation as well as moisture accumulation in your roofing system.
Are you missing shingles?
Missing shingles can cause serious problems. Not only will they leave your home exposed to the elements, but they also open you up to all sorts of roof damage. Missing shingles can allow rain and water to seep into your house, causing mold and rot in wood floors, walls, and ceilings. The resulting leaks can cause major damage that is difficult or impossible for homeowners to fix themselves.
What are your energy bills like right now?
If you’re spending a lot on heating and cooling, it may be time for a new roof. This is because roofing is the single largest source of heat loss in your home. If you have a newer roof, then it might be worth considering whether or not you could save money on your energy bills.
Do you plan to stay in your home for the next 6-10 years?
When it comes to roof replacement, you should consider if you’re going to stay in your home for the next 6-10 years. If so, then it’s a good idea to invest in a new roof because you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of having one while also saving money on repairs and maintenance over time. However, if you are planning on selling your home within this time frame, then it probably isn’t worth investing in a new roof since they don’t add much value when selling a home.
If you answered “yes” to many of these questions, you may need a new roof.
- Are you noticing any leaks in the attic or in other parts of your house?
- Are there areas on your shingles that are thin and worn out?
- Do you notice more than a few shingles missing, especially near the roof line or around vents and skylights?
- Is it difficult to see through your gutters because of debris buildup and moss growth?
- Do you live in an area that gets high exposure to different elements like rain, snow, heat, or wind? For instance, roof damage in St. Louis, MO can have a higher prevalence than other parts of the country due to the fluctuation of the most extreme parts of each season in the midwest.
If you are wondering whether you need a simple roof repair or a roof replacement, contact us today and we’ll give you a free estimate of what it would take to get your new roof installed.