One of the most significant responsibilities of home ownership is replacing your roof when it reaches the end of its lifespan. However, before you make the decision to replace your roof, there are certain factors to consider. It is also always advisable to seek the advice of a professional before making any decisions.
Here are the 5 signs that indicate your roof needs replacement
- The roof has loose, cracked, damaged, or missing shingles
The shingles are the visible part of your roof, so they are the first thing you should examine if you are trying to determine if there is a need to replace your roof. If your shingles are brittle, cracked, or curling up, it is a sign that they need to be replaced. Look for missing shingles or shingles that are torn or curling up at their edges. In case they are curled, you should contact your roofer immediately to check for leaks and make any repairs necessary. Also, remember, when replacing a roof, you should use shingles that are the same thickness and style as what you currently have. It is generally easier to remove the old shingles than to install new ones on top of them.
- Signs of water damage, mold, or rot on the roof
Water damage is one of the most significant signs that your roof is in need of replacement. You may notice water stains on your ceiling or water damage near the roof line. You should also check your gutters regularly for debris. If you find leaves or other debris, it is an indication that you may have a leak in your roof. Once a roof is damaged, it is likely the damage will only worsen over time. It is best to replace your roof as soon as you notice signs of water damage. You may also need to replace your roof if you have had mold growth or other signs of roof rot.
- Flashing is Damaged
Flashing refers to the sections of roofing materials that are installed around the roof’s perimeter and the roof’s joints to create a watertight seal. If a flashing is torn or ripped, it is likely time to replace your roof. If you have a metal roof, it is important to check the condition of the nails that are securing the roofing materials as they may be rusted or corroded. The materials used to seal roof valleys, including the flashing and tar paper, may also be torn and need to be replaced.
- Current roof was installed over 20 years ago
If you have owned your home for more than 20 years, you may want to consider replacing your roof. Roofs usually begin to show signs of wear and tear after 10-12 years. The frequency of inspections, weather conditions and the quality of shingles can affect the lifespan of your roof. Roofing materials that were made with asbestos were prohibited by the EPA in 1989. Roofs that were installed prior to this time may contain asbestos. You should have a professional test your roof for asbestos before replacing it.
- You are planning on selling the house in the future
If you are hoping to sell your home in the near future, you may want to consider replacing your roof even if it is currently in good condition. Roofs usually need to be replaced every 20 years. Most prospective buyers will not want to buy a house with an old roof. You may have to replace the roof before you sell, but this will allow you to sell your home faster once it is ready to go on the market. You should reach out to a roofing company for an assessment and speak with them to get clarification on any questions or concerns.
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