Even the best-quality roofs installed by professionals will eventually need to be replaced. The most accurate way of determining whether you need a new roof is to have a professional examine it. Of course, you need to know when to hire an expert to do this for you. If you notice any of the following signs, then it is likely time to replace your roof, and you should schedule an appointment with a roofing expert to confirm. Do you need a new roof?
How Old Is Your Roof? Do you need a new roof?
The average roof will last for 20 to 25 years, so if yours is getting up in years, it may be time for a replacement. In cases where your roof falls within this range of ages, pay close attention to the other signs on this list. If it is older than 25, then you are probably overdue for a replacement. Keep in mind that certain factors limit the lifespan of a roof. Those with poor ventilation or that have been installed on top of the previous roof without removing the original likely won’t last over 20 years.
Age Is Less of a Concern for Metal, Tile, and Slate Roofs
Keep in mind that the 20 to 25-year lifespan only applies for shingle roofs. Ones made from concrete tiles or metal can last up to 50 years, with some metal roofs lasting 70 years. Some slate roofs can last even longer, with hard slate roofs withstanding 75 to 200 years of use! Even so, keep track of your roof’s age to determine when it is time for a replacement.
Buckling or Curling Shingles
Another indication that it is time to replace your roof is if you notice the shingles buckling or curling. You don’t even have to climb onto the roof to check for this as long as your eyesight is good. Check the slopes of your house that frequently get direct sunlight to check the shingles for lost granules or curling. In this case, your roof is either getting too old or is defective; in either case, you need a new one.
Missing Shingles
An even more obvious sign of age on the roof than curling shingles is if these components are completely missing. If you get on your roof and notice that shingle “tabs” aren’t there anymore or are broken, you need a replacement or at least repairs.
Problems with the Valleys on All Roof Types
Your roof valleys are among the most crucial parts of the roof. Rain will flow through these valleys on its way to the gutters. Because of this, any issues with the roof valleys can lead to leaks. As such, problems with the valleys are very serious and need to be addressed immediately with a new roof. Issues in the valleys can affect all types of roofs, including metal, tile, and slate roofs as well as those with shingles.
Spongy Roof
If you climb on your roof only to notice that it feels spongy or almost like the bounce of a trampoline, this indicates moisture damage on the underlying decking. This decking will need to be replaced, which requires a whole new roof since it is one of the core components of the structure.
Other Signs to Look Out For Regardless of Roof Type
Just a few other signs that indicate that you need a new roof can include seeing sunlight in the attic through the boards of the roof, moisture in your attic insulation, shingle granules sitting in the gutter, moss growing on the shingles, and peeling paint. Most of these apply to all roof types, whether you have shingles, metal, tiles, slate, or something else.