How To Know When It’s Time To Replace Your Roof?

Most homeowners think about replacing their roof after they experience a leak in their ceiling. However, sometimes a roof can naturally reach the end of its life without experiencing a failure. When determining if you need roof replacement there are plenty of signs, besides leaks, that can help you make this decision.

Potential signs that your roof may need to be replaced:

The first is easy.  How old is your roof?

Most roofs were designed and built to last between 20 and 25 years. If your roof is this old it’s time to start thinking of replacing it; especially if you only have one layer of shingles and proper ventilation has been compromised because of its age.

Do you notice that your neighbors getting new roofs? Homes built around the same time, experiencing the same types of weather conditions, can mean that the quality of your roof is deteriorating.

Shingles are starting to buckle and are curled.

Look at the parts of your home that get direct sunlight and see if you notice the shingles are curling and losing granules.  If you see this it could mean the shingles are past their life expectancy and could be susceptible to leaks. Curling or buckling shingles also might indicate a problem with ventilation.

Dark streaks or moss.

While the streaks themselves may not harm the roof shingles, it does not look good and could indicate age taking its toll. A professional roofing company can help determine the cause of the streaks and if damage has occurred.

Moss can grow on roof surfaces that don’t get enough sunlight. The moss will actually hold moisture against the roof and can damage the granules on the shingles, especially during the winter in freezing temperatures.

Are you finding shingle granules in the gutters or the bottom of downspouts?

If your gutters are loaded with shingle granules or you are seeing them at the bottom of your downspouts this could be a sign of a defective roof. Roofing shingles will start losing their granules toward the end of their life cycle. Inconsistent or color changes is another sign the granules are wearing away.

How old is your chimney flashing?

Flashing issues around the chimney are often areas that leak.  If your flashing is cement or tar, and is 20+ years old, it should be replaced with a waterproof metal flashing system.

Missing shingles.

This is never a good sign and could lead to leaks and future mold growth in your attic. If you notice missing shingles you will need to protect that area quickly to prevent further damage to the roof and the interior of your home.

When in your attic, do you see daylight through the roof?

While inspecting your attic if there is any daylight coming through the roof boards or moisture on the insulation, it could be a sign of the roof failing.  If you choose to venture on top of your roof and you feel the roof sagging or squishy, it more than likely means the roof has been compromised by moisture and it’s time to call a professional roofer.

Style Roofing is a leading Northern Virginia Roofing Contractor. Since 1992 we have been trusted by thousands of families because we do quality work at a fair price.  You can read client review by clicking on the following link: Northern Virginia Roofing Contractor Reviews.

We also offer financing! Click the following link to learn more about our roof replacement financing options.