When Is Roof Replacement Necessary?
The roof over your head may not cross your mind until it starts leaking. However, paying more attention to it could help prevent problems before they get out of hand. You don’t need to wait until the water pours through your ceiling. However, it is essential to note that sometimes replacement is better than repairing your roof. If you think it may be time to replace your roof, consider the following.
1. How Old Is Your Roof?
When in doubt, go through your home improvement records and find out when you last replaced your roof. Knowing the exact date you installed your roof gives you some insight into its lifespan.
A regular asphalt shingle roof typically lasts 20 to 25 years. If your roof is installed over a layer of shingles, you must replace it every 20 years.
2. Storm Damage
Storm damage is one of the leading causes of roof replacement. Heavy storms wreak a lot of havoc on your roofs even if they were in excellent condition Tornadoes, ice storms, and rainstorms will likely damage your roof so much that it needs to be replaced. If you have just experienced a storm, schedule an inspection to assess the extent of damage. They will also give you a roof replacement timeframe to ensure that you and your structures stay safe.
3. Moss Growth
If you have moss growing on your roof, it may be time to replace it. Moss is always an indication of trouble. It suggests that some moisture may be trapped up there. You can remove moss by scraping it off with a stiff brush. However, that doesn’t address the underlying problem. Sometimes, roof replacement makes more sense than performing a repair.
4. Interior Water Damage
A visible drip lets you know that you have a leaky roof. However, it isn’t the only indication. Interior water damage could also indicate that your roof is leaking. This usually looks like water spots, streaks, or strains in your ceiling, walls, or attic.
Water damage typically results from faulty facets, burst pipes, and leaky appliances. If water damage is manifesting on the ceiling, in your attic, or close to the tops of your walls, it is probably the result of a leaky roof. Consider hiring a roofing contractor to identify the source of the leak. They will also determine the extent of damage and suggest a good solution. Usually, you will need a new roof.
You can hire Austin roofing company for your roofing needs to ensure that the job is done properly and efficiently. This will not only save you money in the long run but also give you peace of mind knowing that your roof is in good hands.
5. Shingle Damage
Sometimes, roof damage may be apparent from the ground. Since shingles are the doorway to your roofing system, you need to keep observing them. Look out for curling, missing, and cracked shingles. Here are a few signs of shingle damage that could indicate the need for replacement:
– Loose or missing shingles
– Algae or moss growth
– Discoloration or damage around the vents
– Missing granules
– Damage around your skylights or chimneys
Check around your gutters for shingle debris. If debris is in your gutters, it could suggest that the shingles are getting too old. They may be starting to disintegrate. You may need to get a new roof. Do you suspect that you may need a new roof? You need a professional opinion to determine if a replacement would be better than a repair. The main instances where replacement is necessary include: when you have shingle damage, interior water damage, or storm water damage. If your roof is over 20 years old, replacement is usually better than repairing it.
- by Matt Watts
