1. If the Roofing is Over 20 Years Old, it’s Time for a New Roof
A roof will not last forever. Eventually, it will be too old to perform its job well. Common asphalt shingle roofs last around 20 to 25 years before they should be replaced. Other roofing materials have different life expectancies; for example, copper and tile can last 50-100 years depending on the climate and how well they’re maintained.
A replacement roof may be necessary for roofs less than 20 years if they’re damaged, improperly installed, or installed over an existing roof. In this case, it’s up to you and a roofing professional to decide whether repair or replacement is the best option.
2. Shingles are Damaged, Mossy, or Missing
Shingle condition is a good indicator of whether or not you need a replacement roof. The shingles are a roof’s first line of defense, which means they’re usually the first part to show signs of damage. Some issues are direct results of poor shingle health, like leaks and home heat loss.
Healthy shingles should be dark, uniform in color, and lie flat against the roof. If your shingles look patchy in spots or are covered in moss, they aren’t able to do their job as effectively. If you find shingles on your lawn after a storm, your roof will have bare patches that are vulnerable to the elements, resulting in leaks and other problems.
3. The Roofline is Sagging or Buckling
A healthy roof should have strong angles and straight lines. If your roof is beginning to sag or buckle inward, that indicates an underlying structural problem and it’s time for a new roof. Structural problems should be evaluated by a roofing company immediately.
4. Leaking is a Sign that it’s Time for a New Roof
Roof leaks are one of the most common (and easiest to detect) roofing issues. If you have a roof leak, you’ve probably seen stains or dark spots on your ceiling. You may also notice the paint bubbling or peeling away. These are all signs that water is seeping through your roof and into your home.
While roof leaks aren’t automatically a sign that you need a replacement roof, you should consider the severity of the problem along with the age of the roof. If you have major leaks, then a new roof might be in order. Leaks can eventually lead to bigger problems like structural issues and mold.
Need a New Roof?
After reading through the list, have you decided that it’s time for a new roof? New roofs offer many benefits, including better insulation, waterproofing, and better energy-efficiency. Contact your trusted, local roofing contractor for an estimate.
House Doctor Home Inspection provides home inspections and other services to all of Rhode Island. Contact us to schedule an appointment.