Many homeowners hope that they will get their money’s worth from their roof and that it will last its entire projected lifetime. However, not all roofs do and even if they do, there are some signs that you need to pay attention to as these signs indicate that you need a new roof. If you have been taking the out of sight out of mind mentality towards your roof, it is important that you spend some time have your roof looked at.
A failing roof or a roof that needs repair can cause problems for you, especially if there is a weak spot and a storm blows through. Before you think you need an entire roof replacement right now, check out these warning signs first and see if any of them pertain to your roof.
Warning Signs You Need a New Roof
Here are the warning signs that you are indeed in need of a new roof.
Shingles Have Gone Missing
If you have ever weathered a bad storm, you have likely seen a shingle or two ripped from the roof, which is common. However, if you are finding that the shingles on your roof are falling off on their own or they are loosening, then it is time to replace the roof. If you are worried about the integrity of the roof itself, make sure to call a roof inspector to have a look.
Roof Has Expired in Life
Roofs are only designed to last about 20 years and the age of your roof is something you want to consider when determining if you need a new one. If your roof is indeed older than two decades, it may be time to get a new one or at least have it inspected.
Typically, when a roof starts to reach its prime age, you will notice that the shingles are cracked, peeling, missing, or even curling up.
Gutter Full of Granules
If your gutters are full of sand or granules, then you need to take a look at your roof. A small amount of granules from asphalt shingles in the gutter is normal but if you have a lot of granules, this is not normal. This is often a sign that your roof has reached the end of its life.
Water Damage in Your Home on the Ceiling or in the Attic
Water damage is one of the first noticeable signs that there is a problem with your roof. You will likely see this issue on the roof in your home and will appear as a dark colored ring or wet spot on the ceiling itself. If it does not extend to the home’s roof, you may find signs of water damage in the attic.
Water damage can cause its own severe issues such as structural problems, mold, and rot. Cracked, wrinkled, or dented shingles are an indication that water can enter your home and if you do have water damage stains, then it already has. If this is the case, you want to make sure to have your roof inspected and replaced as quickly as possible to prevent further problems.
Exposed Nail Heads
This ties in with the water damage issue above. Exposed nail heads are a good indication that you need to have your roof replaced. Once the nail heads pop up, they leave small holes and spaces where they used to hold the shingle down and these small areas are then exposed to water, which leads to water damage.
Sagging Roof
A sagging roof is nothing to simply put off. In fact, it is an indication of a serious problem such as a structural issue caused from water damage due to excessive weight. A sagging roof can quickly become an issue, especially if it caves in completely.
If your roof has not been able to keep water, snow, or ice out, then you may end up with a sagging roof and it needs to be addressed immediately.
Shingles That Look Off
When you look at a shingle, it should look like a shingle and not have any visible flaws to it. If you look at one and notice that it looks off, it is time to have them replaced. Cracks, blisters, granule loss, and curling are all signs there is an issue and the shingles are simply too old.
Increase in Heating and Cooling Costs
A high heating and cooling bill could be an indication that your roof is not doing its job. An inspection will solve that problem and be able to tell you exactly what the issue is.
If your roof looks good, there are other things that could be working against you to increase your heating and cooling costs.
Damaged or Missing Flashing
Unfortunately, one of the cheapest tricks of the trade is to use old flashing even with a new roof. While it may seem like this is okay at first, it can leave your home prone to water damage. The flashing serves a purpose, so if it is damaged or missing, you may need a replacement to prevent further issues that will be more costly.
Moss Growing on Your Shingles
While you may like the natural look the moss gives, it is actually not something you want. In fact, if moss is growing on your shingles, you need to be concerned. Moss thrives in damp environments, which begs the question – is water getting in through the roof?
If you have a roof that is heavily shaded, moss can and will grow. If it does, it can cause damage between the shingles. Having a roof inspector look at the moss to determine the cause is a good idea. Trying to remove it yourself may be effective at first, but the moss will likely come back as the initial reason was not addressed and you may actually further damage your roof in the process of removing the moss.
Choosing What’s Best for Your Home
If you think there is an issue with your roof or if you have noticed some signs that have you alarmed, there is no harm in having the roof checked. Being on the safe side, especially if your roof is near its prime age, is a good idea and will only benefit you and provide you with the answers you seek.
While you may want to let the damage carry out just a little longer or you may want to put off the roof replacement, we all know it is expensive, this can only lead to more damage, which may raise that already costly price.
Don’t sit with a damaged roof and have an inspector look at it to tell you for sure what is going on and what your options are.