Checking the roof is not a task that most people remember to do on a regular basis. Usually, people examine their roofs when they spot a problem such as water damage or a loose shingle. For starters, if you have encountered several roofing problems in the recent years, you may need a roof replacement instead of a roof repair. Some issues can be fixed through repair while others cannot. Here are some of the signs that you need a new roof.
Light Coming Into the Attic
At least once a year, you should go in your attic and look up. If a ray of light is finding its way into the inside of your attic, there is a roofing issue. If daylight is shining through, then water can easily get into your home, too.
The Age of Your Roof
Asphalt shingles, which are the most widely used roofing materials in the United States, usually last between 20-25 years. Once you hit the 20th birthday of your roof, start preparing yourself for a new roof. However, if none of these other signs that you need a new roof are apparent, it might not be time just yet. Some roofs last over 25 years before they start showing any signs of failing. Roofs on houses that don’t have roof valleys can last up to 30 years.
Shingles in Your Gutters
When shingles age and wear off, they can collect in or clog your gutters. If you spot granules in your trenches, know that your roof is likely in need of replacement. You may also notice severe shrinkage and decomposition of the shingles along valleys, which is one of the sure signs that you need a new roof. When this happens, it becomes had to separate repairable from non-repairable shingles. Even if you were to choose to repair some, you may not find new shingles that match your old roof.
Curling, Buckling and Missing Shingles
Shingles are held firmly by the quality of the fitting and the materials. Weather changes such as precipitation, sunlight, humidity, and other things aid in the decomposition of granules. The materials break down, which makes it hard for the shingles to hold onto their original shapes and sizes. The resulting effect is curling and buckling. Sometimes the shingles fall off and land in the gutters or in the yard.
Fungal Growth
Decomposition of organic matter invites fungal growths such as algae, mold, and moss. The presence of such growths may accelerate the speed of decomposition, which means your roof may become compromised if the growth is not addressed early on. It can be cleaned off but is difficult to keep from returning, so this sign combined with the others mentioned here could mean it’s time for a new roof.
Sagging Roof and Damaged Flashing are Signs That You Need a New Roof
Your roof should stay in pristine condition. If it is not, it invites other problems that help it degenerate faster. For example, the roof’s ability to divert water away from it will reduce with age, which means it will absorb more than it should. If the flashing is turning upward or cracked, it will prevent water from running to the roof seams and the roof will absorb even more water. This moisture will encourage moldy growths and algae that will disintegrate the shingles. It will also become heavier than it should, which will put pressure on the underlying materials. The sagging shape will accumulate more moisture putting your roof at risk of cracking, soaking, or leaking, causing damage to the structure of your home.
If your roof shows any of these signs that you need a new roof, it is important to get your roof replaced before any hurricanes or storms hit this fall. You can protect your home from wind and water damage by replacing a roof that is at the end of its life.
Florida Superior Inspections offers roof certifications to Southwest Florida including Tampa and St. Petersburg. Contact us to schedule an appointment.