Telltale Signs You Need To Invest In Roof Replacement

Unlike your home’s siding, windows, and doors, you don’t always have a great view of your roof. You can see when the siding is starting to peel off or the window frames are showing wear, but the damage on your roof is usually a bit harder to see from your grounded perspective. When you put effort into getting a ladder up and scaling it to check out the state of your roof, you want to make sure that you’re looking for the signs that will let you know you need to replace it.

In addition to signs on the roof, there are also ways you can tell you need a new roof without climbing to the top of your home. Let’s explore a few of the key signs that indicate you need to call experienced roofing contractors for a roof replacement.

The Shingles Curl Or Crack

As your roof takes the force of elements like wind and rain day after day, it will eventually start to show wear. Some of the most common indications that your roof has taken all it can over the years are shingles curling or cracking.

Shingles will usually curl in two ways. The first is known as cupping, in which the edges of the shingles start the turn upward. The second is clawing, which is when the edges of the shingles stay flat and the middle begins to rise. Either type of curling can eventually lead to leaking, as the shingles are not holding the shape that allows water to run off of the roof effectively.

Cracked shingles present another structural issue. If you have just a few cracked shingles isolated to one area of the roof, you may not have to worry about the entire integrity of it. However, when you see cracked shingles randomly throughout your roof, you should start thinking about roof replacement.

Your Roof Is Going To Turn 25

If you have an asphalt shingle roof, like most of the homes in the United States, you have a roof with a lifespan of 20 to 50 years. Its exact lifespan depends on your area’s climate, but you’ll want to start thinking about replacing your roof by the time 25 years have passed since it was installed. Even a roof that looks okay could have underlying structural issues once it starts reaching 30 or 40 years old.

Try checking any home maintenance records you have tucked away to find the last time you replaced your roof. If you’ve been in your home for over 20 years and have never installed a new roof, it’s probably a good idea to invest in a replacement. Another good indication is when your neighbors are starting to replace their roofs. If all the houses on your street are part of a development or were built at the same time, you’ll all need new roofs at the same time as well.

There Are Granules In The Gutter

Sometimes, the sign that you need to replace your roof is in your gutters. Black granules will start to fall off of an asphalt roof after about 15 years. Usually, they’ll land in your gutters and many homeowners spot the issue when they’re doing their seasonal gutter cleaning. While the granules aren’t an integral part of your roof, they are meant to keep the sun off of the shingles. Once they fall off, the roof shingles start to bake and the roof’s quality will begin to deteriorate from the heat.

If you’ve just started to notice loose granules, the shingles are probably halfway through their lifespan. The exception to this rule is if you just had a new roof installed. In this case, the granules in your gutters were just loose ones that fell off the shingles when the contractors installed the roof.

You Can See Sunlight In Your Attic

When sunlight can peek into your attic, that means that rain, cold air, and snow can also get through the cracks in your roof. If you know that your roof is starting to reach the end of its lifespan, check the attic regularly. Look out for water stains in your attic as well. This is another sure sign that your roof is in need of replacement.

Choosing the right roof for your home is a crucial decision, as it not only affects the aesthetic appeal of your house but also provides protection against the elements. Here are some tips to help you choose the right roof for your home:

1. Consider the climate: The type of roof you choose should be able to withstand the climate in your area. For instance, if you live in an area prone to high winds, you may want to consider a metal roof, while a slate roof may be more suitable for areas with heavy snowfall.
2. Evaluate your budget: Different roofing materials come at varying prices, so it is essential to determine your budget before making a choice. While some materials may be more expensive initially, they may be more cost-effective in the long run due to their durability.
3. Assess the aesthetics: The style and color of your roof should complement the overall look of your house. Take into consideration factors such as the color of your home’s exterior, the architectural style, and the surrounding landscape.
4. Determine the maintenance requirements: Different roofing materials require varying levels of maintenance. Consider the level of upkeep you are willing to commit to and choose a roof that fits your needs.
5. Consult with professionals: It’s always a good idea to consult with roofing professionals who can guide you through the selection process. They can provide expert advice and help you make an informed decision based on your needs, budget, and preferences.

By considering these factors, you can choose the right roof for your home that meets your needs and enhances the overall look and feel of your house.

If you can spot the signs early on, you’ll save yourself a lot of trouble and potentially the costs of damages that a faulty roof can lead to. Investing in only roof replacement will be much more cost-effective than paying for a replacement and repairs to your ceilings, siding, and basement that a low-quality roof can cause. Contact Style Roofing Inc today to learn more about replacing your roof and get a free quote.