6 Signs It’s Time for a New Roof
6 Signs It’s Time for a New Roof
You know it’s time to call the pros if you see water stains on your ceilings, but is there a better way to determine when an asphalt shingle roof needs replacement?
Here are 6 signs that your roof might need to be replaced, and checking for these signs doesn’t require climbing a ladder. Grab a pair of binoculars and you can spot most of these problems from the ground.
1. Roof Age
How old is your existing asphalt shingle roof? Most experts agree that a typical roof will last between 20 and 30 years. It also depends on whether the old roof was removed and you only have one layer of shingles, and if it is properly ventilated. If the roof was installed over another layer or several layers and it is older than 20 years, chances are you need a new roof. If you live in a subdivision and your neighbors are all starting to replace their roofing, that could be an indicator that you should do the same.
2. Curling Shingles
Shingles that are curled are another sign that you may need a new roof. Shingles can curl in two ways: cupping and clawing. Cupping happens when the edges of the shingles turn upward; and clawing is when the edges stay flat and the middle starts to come up. Both are signs of weathering and indicate that problems are on the horizon.
Look at the slopes of your home that get direct sunlight and if you notice the shingles are curling and losing granules, it could mean the shingles are past their life expectancy. There could also be a possibility that the roof is defective. Contact a licensed roofing contractor to see if you could be eligible for reimbursement.
3. Shingle Granules in the Gutters
Look in your gutters to see whether they are loaded up with shingle granules. Brand new roofs will have granules in the gutters and it’s a normal part of the shedding of new shingles. But if it's been 10 or 15 years, that's a sign of a bigger problem. Roofs tend to lose more granules toward the end of their life cycle. Inconsistent or darker color on some parts of the roof is another sign the granules have worn away.
Granules help keep the sun off the asphalt. Once the granules fall off and the shingles start to bake, the quality of the protection of the shingle will deteriorate in a hurry.
4. Roof Valleys
Take special notice of the bottom of the “V” places in your roofing. If your roof shingles are falling apart or missing in this area, it's a definite sign you need a new roof. Valleys are one of the most important areas of your roof because they are where snow and rain flow through into gutters. If the valley is compromised, you could be susceptible to roof leaks.
5. Compromised Decking
This step will require getting on the roof, or climbing up into your attic, but it’s a surefire way to detect an issue. If you notice a spongy feel or trampoline bounce when walking on the roof, it could mean the underlying decking is weakened from moisture. Check your attic to see if there is any daylight coming through the roof boards. Also check for moisture in the insulation.
If you see daylight through the roof beams, call a contractor immediately. If light can get in, so can rain, cold air, and snow. Also look for water stains. If you find any, watch them over a few rainfalls and if they change shape or size, your roof is actively leaking.
6. The Entire Roof is Sagging
This is a big deal. A sagging roof is typically an indication of a structural issue. There could be a problem with the decking in the attic or, worse, with the supports in the foundation. You're not necessarily in imminent danger, but this is the kind of thing that's a lot easier to take care of when it's small and localized, than when it has progressed.
If you’ve noticed any of the roofing issues listed above, it’s a good idea to call a licensed contractor and get a free estimate of the roofing repairs or possible replacement cost. At RSG Construction, we provide GoPro roof inspections, so you can see these issues with professional guidance, without ever having to set foot on your roof. Transparency is an important part of our process, and you can feel confident that we have diagnosed your roofing needs clearly and comprehensively.
Call us today at at 816.866.4235 for your complimentary consultation.
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