How often do you go up into your attic and on your ladder outside to inspect the condition of your roof?
For most people, the answer to this would be never. We take our roofs for granted, with many of us only thinking about getting a roof replacement when there is obvious physical damage to the exterior.
This is not the right course of action. There are many causes of roof damages and unfortunately, not all of them are easy to spot. Catch them early and you may save yourself a lot of money down the road.
From unwanted growths to damaged shingles, read on to discover the eight signs you need to consider replacing an old roof.
1. Your Roof Is Leaking
If you notice a leak in your roof, you can take that as a clear sign that you need to find a roof replacement service immediately. After heavy rainfall, check in your attic for signs of water intrusion.
If the leak is minor, or limited to a small section of the roof, then you may just need a repair. Always get a professional to inspect it, however, as putting off a replacement after leaks can lead to costly repairs further down the line.
2. The Roof Is Sagging
A sagging roof indicates a major structural issue, and a replacement will be necessary. It could be a sign that there is a problem with your attic’s decking or even the supports in the foundation.
If you notice any drooping in the roof, call for an expert as soon as you are able. The problem is much easier to deal with at the onset, so don’t let it progress.
3. There Is Moss or Algae on the Roof
If you notice any moss or other growths on your roof, you can easily brush it off yourself. However, if this is a regular occurrence, then it may be time to call in the professionals.
This may be a very early indication that you have a case of roof rot, a problem that is caused by long periods of moisture and that can quickly start to cause serious structural damage if left unchecked.
Regularly check your attic and internal walls and ceilings for signs of mold or mildew. If you notice patches appearing, a new roof should be at the top of your priorities.
4. The Shingles Are Cracked, Curled, or Damaged
The first thing you should do is go into your attic and turn off the lights. Look up. If you can see light coming through, then your shingles are likely cracked or otherwise damaged. This can quickly lead to leaks if the weather turns bad.
If your shingles are starting to curl up, or are cracked, then repairs are needed. Shingles should always lie flush against the roof, so damaged shingles are easy to spot. The best time to check for shingle damage is after a storm or a period of severe weather, as weathering is the main cause of shingle damage.
It is important to note that there are two types of shingle curling to look out for. Cupping occurs when the outer edges of the shingles turn upward, while clawing refers to the process of the middle rising as the edges stay flat.
5. Entire Shingles Are Missing
A few shingles missing isn’t a major problem, as they can easily be replaced individually. In theory, you can keep patching up your roof until a bigger problem comes along. In practice, however, what you will find is that your roof soon starts to look like a checkerboard.
It’s almost impossible to find shingles in the exact same shade as your old ones, and colors can also change as a result of weathering. After a few minor patch-ups, many people opt to replace the whole roof.
6. Your Heating Bills Are Going Up
If you’ve noticed your heating bills increasing every winter, it may be a sign of poor roof insulation. Though most people blame poor door and window insulation for low-energy efficiency, the roof is often the main culprit.
It allows air to blow in and then leave easily, which during the winter months can result in climbing energy bills. Replacing your old roof with a new, better-insulated one will save you money in the long run.
7. It Is Nearing 20 Years Old
How old is your roof?
Installing a new roof could be on the horizon for you if your roof is approaching 20 years of age. It is a much better idea to replace it than to wait for leaks or shingle damage to appear.
Exactly how long your roof will last will depend on the material, where you live, and how well it has been maintained. If you aren’t sure how old your roof is, make arrangements for it to be inspected.
If you notice lots of people in your neighborhood getting work done to their roofs, then it is a good indication that you should do the same. This is because, generally speaking, neighbors tend to replace their roofs at similar times.
8. It Shows Signs of Poor Installation
If your roof wasn’t installed well, then it might not reach the 20-year life expectancy of the average roof. It will deteriorate at a faster rate and may suffer from more leaks.
Look out for shingles that appear uneven or awkward or reoccurring problems early in the roof’s lifetime and call a roofing company you trust to examine it and replace it using high-quality materials.
When a Roof Replacement Is the Best Plan
If you notice any of these eight signs, it is a good idea to get it checked out as soon as possible and have a new roof installed if needed. Roof replacement costs can seem expensive, but it is a wise investment that will save you from even more costly repairs down the road.
At HP Roofing, we only use the best quality materials to provide reliable and friendly roofing service. If you’re in Lubbock, TX, or the surrounding areas and are in need of a roof replacement for a residential or commercial property, we’re here to help. Contact us today to get your free estimate!
