The roof may be considered the vital protector of any home. But over time, it’s bound to show signs of wear and tear here and there.
As the roof shields you from the elements and keeps you safe and comfortable, they must remain well-maintained. This ensures your home remains livable.
Listed below are six telling signs that indicate you may need to call in an expert and have your roof replaced.
1. Shingles Are Damaged
Although shingles are built to be sturdy, they tend to get worn out and damaged over time. Shingles are what deflect various elements from penetrating your home after all.
Generally, shingles should not curl, crack, have moss or algae growth, be loose, or have missing pieces.
If your shingles are starting to disintegrate, it may be a sign you need roof replacement right away.
Now, the question you might want to ask is: How do I find the best roofing contractor near me? Well, you have to do your research because this is a major decision that needs careful consideration.
Contact several contractors and check if they have the necessary license, certifications, training, and insurance. Also, look at reviews posted by their previous clients.
2. Unexpected Beams of Light
Inclement weather or other natural disasters may cause holes and openings on your roof. The best way to check is to go to the attic and look under the eaves. If you notice beams of light filtering through, your roof may have been damaged.
You need to have a professional inspect your roof to determine the extent of the damage. If your roof turns out to be heavily damaged, then it might be time for a roof replacement.
3. Infected With Mold and Algae
Mold and algae are bound to develop from things that constantly collect moisture. As roofs do just that, routinely check for mold and the like. Fungi not only damages your roof but can also lead to health problems for you and your family.
Similarly, algae can cause roof rot if left unchecked. Nipping mold and algae growth in the bud will save your roof from further damage and spare you from considerable expenses. But if the damage is extensive and beyond repair, then it’s time for roof replacement.
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4. Water Damage and Leaks
If you start to notice sudden wet patches or stains on your ceilings and walls, this may be a sign that your roof needs to be replaced. It’s not wise to ignore this sign as water leaks, if left unresolved, could totally ruin not just your ceilings and walls, but even your flooring, furniture, and home appliances.
In addition, water leaks encourage mold and mildew growth and cause wood rot. Perhaps the worst thing that could happen is when water leaks affect your home’s electrical system.
5. Visible Sagging
A sagging roofline is as visually unappealing as it is dangerous. A lot of collected moisture is what usually causes a roof to sag. If your roof shows any sign of sagging, it would be wise to immediately reach out to a roofing contractor.
As roof replacement requires specialized work, bringing in experts can ensure the repair is done right the first time around. This is also less costly in the long run.
6. Increasing Energy Bills
If your roof is damaged, chances are your utility bills will also rise. Functional roofs normally trap heat efficiently, whereas damaged ones don’t. Your heating and cooling system would thus need to expend more energy to regulate the temperature in your home. Because your heating and cooling system is working harder than it needs to, you can expect your bills to be higher than usual.
So, if you notice that you’re paying more for your utility bills, consider having your roof checked by a professional.
7. More Than 20 Years
No matter how well-maintained your roof is, if it’s been around for more than two decades, it’s probably time to replace it. With age, roofing materials eventually disintegrate, making your roof more susceptible to damage.
If your roof is 15 to 20 years old, it’s nearing the end of its lifespan. At this point, you should prepare for a roof replacement.
Bottomline
Ensuring that your roof is in excellent condition is essential not only in maintaining the aesthetics of your home but also in safeguarding it.
Many indicators tell you if it’s time to have your roof replaced. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, immediately taking action can save you a great deal of trouble later on.
