One of the repairs that homeowners typically dread most is their roof. It is a significant expense, and it often feels like many roofing companies suggest you need a new roof earlier than necessary. This article gives you nine of the top signs that might indicate you need a new roof. If you see these signs with your roof, you may need to contact local roofing replacement companies.
1. There Are Missing Shingles
One of the top signs that it’s time to contact local roofing replacement companies is missing shingles from your roof. If you have an older roof, it may be ready for a replacement. However, when you see multiple shingles falling off and lying on the ground around your house, it is time to find roofing contractors. If you stand on the ground in front, behind, and on the sides of your house and look up at your roof, you may be able to see that some of your shingles are missing.
As your roof loses shingles, it becomes less effective at protecting your house. Shingles are the protector of your roof. They protect all of the contents of your house from the weather. They also protect the inside of your house. When functioning properly, shingles lie flat against the roof. You may also notice damage or discoloration around your vents or damage to skylights and chimneys. Another item to pay attention to is if you begin to see shingle granules around downspouts and gutters. This is often a sign that the shingles are beginning to disintegrate. There is natural disintegration as the shingles start to age. A roofing contractor will also check the seals of your chimney, vents, and skylights to look for breaks or cracks.
2. It’s Over 25 Years Old
One of the items that can help you determine if it’s time for you to contact local roofing replacement companies is the age of your current roof. All roofs are intended to be durable and protect the inside of your home from extreme weather. All roofs withstand weather conditions. Depending on where you live, you may have more extreme weather conditions than others. Asphalt shingles are expected to last for about two decades. Ideally, you should expect your roof to last anywhere from 30 years to 50 years, depending on the weight of the shingles that were used. There are other roofs that last longer than others. Metal and clay roofs are an example of roofs that tend to last longer.
Local roofers will tell you that the older your roof is, the more it begins to show wear and begins to break down. This is why the age of your roof makes a difference when thinking about replacing or repairing your roof. Roofers can assess your roof and look for signs of age. Some of these signs include curling, missing, or blistering shingles, sagging roof, or moss covering your roof. They also look for any granules in the gutter. This can help you determine if it’s time to get a new roof.
3. You Want a New Roof Material
It may be time to contact local roofing replacement companies simply because you want a different type of roof. Perhaps you moved into a house with a roof that you just don’t like. Maybe you have done a significant amount of work to your house, and the roof no longer matches the aesthetic. These could all be reasons why you want a new roof. Another different type of roofing material to choose for your house is metal.
You may be surprised to find out that there are many different types of metal shingles. You can select from aluminum, steel, copper, and other metal alloys. There is no limit on the number of colors and styles available to you. Metal roofing services are becoming more popular because metal roofing is lightweight, resistant to fire, and durable. Metal roofs are also resistant to extreme weather and are known for their longevity. Metal roofs can be installed in whole sheets or shingles.
It is even possible to have a metal roof shingle installed on top of most existing roofs. A professional roofer would have to let you know if that is an option for your roof. When you properly care for a metal roof, it should last as long as 75 years. Metal roofs are energy-efficient and reflect heat. A metal roof can help reduce your cooling costs during the hot summer. They have a modern appeal and can change the way your house looks. It’s no surprise to find that a metal roof is more expensive than a traditional asphalt shingle roof.
4. There Is Moss Growing
It may be time to contact local roofing replacement companies if you notice mold growing on your roof. You want to be sure to find a reputable local roofing company for your home. Sometimes, mold can be removed, but not always, and you may need to replace your roof. Mold is bad for your home and your family. It has negative health impacts and can make you sick. Mold is not good for shingles, either. It can break down shingles and cause them to degenerate. A leak in your roof can lead to mold growth. It’s important to stop and prevent leaks as much as possible. This can help prevent mold from growing.
If you notice dark spots on your roof, it could be mold. If moisture is leaking under the shingles and seeping into the wood, it could be a breeding ground for mold and rot. Any time you see condensation in your attic or the wood is discoloring, it might be an early sign that you have rotting wood. It should be replaced immediately. If you begin to notice a musty or moldy smell in your home, it often means there is mold somewhere. You want to check your attic, basement, and other rooms for mold. When you find mold in your attic, it typically means you have a problem with your roof.
5. Your Roof Is Sagging
When you notice that your roof is sagging, contacting local roofing replacement companies is a good idea. A sagging roof looks bad but is also dangerous. When the roof sags, it means the roof’s structural integrity isn’t sound. It could be an early warning sign that your roof is going to collapse. There could be a number of reasons why your roof is sagging. First, there may be too much weight on top of it, causing it to bow. All roofs are designed to handle a maximum weight load. If it has anything more than that, it can sag. There is also a possibility that you have rafters that aren’t the right size. Finally, your roof may not have adequate storm bracing, and snow or ice is resting on your roof.
You may need a local roof installed, or your roof may require some repairs. For example, it is possible to jack up a sagging roof. However, a professional roofer should come to your home and assess your roof. If you are not qualified to repair or replace a roof, you should rely on a professional to handle this situation for you.
6. You Found Shingle Pieces in Your Yard
Most of the time, when you find shingles in your yard, you should contact local roofing replacement companies. It is a fairly good sign that you are going to need roofing repair because you have some type of damage. When you find shingles in the yard, you should inspect your roof for obvious damage. If you see missing shingles or damage that stands out, you should contact roofing services. If the singles that you have in your yard aren’t damaged, they may be able to be put back on your roof. You should collect them and be careful not to damage them. You can put the shingles back on the roof if you have the skills. If not, you should contact a professional to re-install them.
If you notice that the shingles are damaged, you should dispose of them properly. If you have extensive damage on your roof, you want to document it with pictures or videos, including the shingles in your yard and the damage on your roof. You may be able to create a claim with your insurance company.
7. Your Home’s Curb Appeal Is Lacking
You might be surprised to know how much your roof can add to or take away from the curb appeal of your home. You may think that because you can’t really see the roof, it doesn’t matter. However, you can see the roof more than you realize from the road. This is why it’s important to consider the look and style of your house when selecting a new roof. Before you contact local roofing replacement companies, you must assess the architectural style of your house. When you have a good understanding of the style of your home, you are better able to select the roof color that matches your house.
Quality roofers will tell you that you should consider the exterior features of your home when making a decision about a roof. These features include the shutters, flower boxes, and color of the siding. Another item that you should consider when making a determination about your roof is the way the sunlight hits it. The darker the color of your roof, the more it will absorb heat from the sun. They can be as much as 20 degrees warmer. You may want a lighter color if you live in a warmer climate.
8. Debris in the Gutters
If you notice debris in your gutters, you may want to consider contacting local roofing replacement companies. There could be various kinds of debris in your gutters, including leaves, twigs, and other materials. When this accumulates and clogs your gutters, it can become a problem. Roofing companies will tell you that clogged gutters can cause water to back up under the shingles, which can cause damage and rot to your roof.
During the winter, debris in your gutters can lead to ice dams, which can cause water to back up and enter your home. Water also overflows clogged gutters, damaging your foundation, walls, and roof. In addition, when you have debris in your gutters, the debris can attract pests. Rodents, insects, and birds may create a pest infestation in or around your home. To prevent damage to your roof, you should ensure that you have your gutters cleaned a minimum of two times per year. If you have a significant number of trees around your home, you may need to clean them more frequently.
9. Your Neighbors Are Getting a New Roof
When you notice your neighbors are getting a new roof, you may want to contact local roofing replacement companies. This is especially true if you notice that many of your neighbors are getting roofs. Most likely, the homes in your neighborhood are around the same age. Therefore, if your neighbor’s roofs need to be replaced, your roof will probably need a replacement soon.
In addition to needing a new roof soon, if houses with new roofs surround your house, your roof may look old, dated, and in need of a replacement. Over time, roofs discolor, and your roof will fade as it gets older. This will be a stark difference from your neighbors’ new roofs. As a result, you may want to consider replacing your roof. Sometimes, if everyone in the neighborhood is using the same contractor, they will give you a discount if so many people use their services. You may be able to make a deal similar to that if you all use the same roofing contractor.
We have compiled the top nine signs that may indicate it’s time for a new roof. However, if you are vigilant and provide regular maintenance to your roof, you may be able to extend its life span.