The roof, the roof, the roof is on fire!

Well, let’s hope not! If so, then it will definitely need replacing, but there are actually some more subtle indicators that it’s time to replace your roof. We put together this article to help you identify common signs you need a new roof.

Read on to learn if your roof is due for an overhaul!

1. Age

You can prevent things from getting too bad if you know how old your roof is and how long it was made to last. If you wait until it’s leaking to replace your old roof, you risk damage to more of your home and belongings.

Most asphalt roofs have a lifespan of between 20-30 years depending on what kind of shingles you have. Standard 3-tab shingles last about 20 years, but may not last that long if you live in an area with bad storms as they are prone to cracking. Architectural or luxury shingles are more expensive but have a longer life.

If you don’t know how old your roof is, having a trained professional perform an inspection may help you gauge how much life is left in your roof.

2. Broken Shingles

When your shingles are past their life expectancy, they will not be able to stand up to the elements as well. Shingles in direct sunlight may begin to buckle or curl. If you notice that your shingles aren’t laying flat anymore, you will need to take action soon to make sure the problem doesn’t get worse and affect the supporting structure of your roof.

Sometimes a bad storm can dislodge individual shingles, or crack a few. Noticing missing shingles may just mean you need to patch that specific area, but if you notice multiple locations of missing shingles, your roof may be past its prime. This is especially important to pay attention to in roof valleys, as these are major conduits for water runoff.

Take note if you see a lot of the asphalt granules from the shingles are missing, or if you notice them collecting in your gutters. This is also a sign that your shingles are deteriorating past the point of fully protecting your roof.

3. Spongy Roof

You should do more than just keep an eye on the condition of your roof. You should perform yearly inspections where you physically walk around the roof of your home (unless the slope is too severe, you always need to practice proper safety on rooftops!).

If you are up on your roof you notice that it feels spongy to walk on, this can be a sign of water damage to the decking of your roof. Identify the areas that feel spongy and if possible, check those areas from inside the attic. If you can see daylight through the roof boards from inside, there is a definite problem!

When There Are Clear Signs You Need a New Roof

What do you do when there are clear signs you need a new roof? Hire a good roofer to get the job done. We have a great team of experienced professionals that can help you get your roof in tip-top shape!

Contact us today to set up a consultation!