Making sure your roof is in good condition is key to preventing future damage and keeping your home safe! Here are some telltale signs it may be time to repair or replace your roof.
The responsibilities of being a homeowner are numerous, and it can be difficult to know what to look for when it comes to maintaining the condition of your home. When it comes to your roof, there are several signs you can look out for to determine whether your roof needs to be repaired or replaced. Paying attention to these signs will allow you to prevent damage before it happens, save yourself some trouble down the road, and keep your home safe.
Interior Damage
One of the first and easiest places to look for signs of roof damage is in the attic of your home. Take a flashlight and check for dark stains or streaks and areas of the roof that may be sagging. Turn the flashlight off and see if there is any sunlight shining through. If light is able to get through the cracks in your roof, so is rain or snow! Finally, check to see if there are any other signs of leaks or water damage.
Age of Roof
In general, a roof should last about 20-25 years, depending on the type of roof. Check your records to see when your roof was last replaced. If your roof is nearing the end of its useful life, you may start to notice your roof looking generally old and worn. Additionally, if your neighbors are replacing their roofs that may be a good indication it is time to start the process yourself. Replacing a roof is a project you need to give yourself time to schedule – don’t wait until it is too late!
Exterior Damage
In addition to checking the interior of your home, there are several signs you can look for on the exterior of your home as well. Look for damaged or cupped shingles or shingles that curl at the edges. Similar to the interior inspection, check for dark streaks, water damage, and signs of rot. Examine flashing to make sure there are not cracks or leaks around vents, skylights, and chimneys. Lastly, keep an eye out for moss. While moss growth can be purely cosmetic in some instances, it may also indicate trapped water, which could lead to further damage.
Storm Damage
If your home has recently endured a severe storm, it is always a good idea to check your roof for signs of damage. The shingles on your roof should lie flat and not buckle. Check your gutters and downspouts for granules. If granules are coming loose, especially if your roof is older, it could be time to replace your roof!
Drooping or Sagging Roof
This is one of the biggest indicators of roof damage. If you notice a drooping or sagging roof, it is important to contact a roofing contractor immediately!
In some instances, it may be safer to have a roofing contractor inspect the exterior of your roof for damage. However, if you are able to access your roof, there are many telltale signs that it is time to take action to prevent further damage.
