The average midrange roof replacement costs upwards of $20,000, but the average homeowner in 2017 spent just over $6,000 to have their roof replaced.
The best thing you can do for your home and your pockets is to catch any issues before they grow worse. As a homeowner, it’s crucial to know what warning signs to look for.
Are you wondering if your residential roof needs repairs or replacement? From leaks to damage, keep reading to learn 7 warning signs that it might be time for new roofing on your home.
1. Your Roof Is Old
Depending on the roof you own, a roof can last anywhere from 20 to 50 plus years. Shingle roofs tend to sit on the lower side, with an average lifespan of about 20 years.
Generally speaking, one should expect a residential home roof to last between 20 and 25 years.
How old is your existing roof? Was your existing roof installed over several other layers? If the answer is yes and your roof is over 20 years old, it’s likely time for a replacement.
Is it properly ventilated? Was the old roof removed before the most recent roofing job? All these factors influence the lifetime of your roof.
2. Your Roof Has Algae or Moss
Does your roof have significant dark spots? Algae causes dark streaks on roofs. It doesn’t always harm the roof, though. Typically, these streaks can be removed by spraying a bleach and water combination on your roof.
It’s important to use low water pressure, though, so you don’t knock protective granules off your roof’s shingles. If you opt to clean your roof on your own, be sure to protect your greenery from bleach run-off, too.
Algae can lead to significant roof damage, depending on how much of it there is or how deeply it has penetrated your roof. It’s a good idea to call a roofing service if you notice algae spots so that you can repair any damages before you have to replace your roof.
Moss grows on roof surfaces, too, especially those that don’t get a lot of sunlight. While it’s often cosmetic, it can become more than that. Moss holds moisture against the surface and can cause significant damage over time.
3. Curling and Buckling Shingles
Curled or buckling shingles are often a sheer sign that it’s time to replace your home roof. Take a look at the slopes of your house, especially those that get direct sunlight.
Do you notice that your shingles are losing granules or curling? If the answer is yes, it could indicate that the shingles have aged past their life expectancy. It could also mean that your roof is defective.
If you notice curling or buckling, don’t wait to contact a professional roofing company. They’ll assess the damage and let you know if you might be entitled to reimbursement from a previous installer.
4. Roof Valleys or Missing Shingles
Are you shingles falling apart? Do you have any missing shingles? If the answer is yes, it’s probably time for a new roof.
The valleys of your roof are the most integral areas. Rain and snow and other debris flow through valleys and into your gutters. If the valleys become compromised, your roof could become susceptible to roof leaks.
Roof leaks can lead to additional home damage, which is why it’s vital to call a roofing service as soon as you notice compromised or missing shingles.
If you do notice missing shingles, check to see if all the shingle tabs are properly in place, or ask professional roofers to do so for you.
5. Granules in Your Gutters
Check your gutters. Are they loaded up with shingle granules? Towards the end of their life cycle, roofs begin to lose more granules.
If you notice the darker color on some parts of the roof, it could indicate algae, but it could also indicate that the granules have begun to wear away.
If your gutters contain lots of shingle granules, then it means those shingles have reached the end of their life.
6. Daylight and Moisture
Have you noticed any daylight coming through the roof boards on your home? Go up into your attic to see if there is even the slightest amount of daylight coming through.
If you can safely walk on your roof, notice if you feel any spongy areas as you walk around. If you feel a bit of bounce or sponginess under your feet, it means that the roof’s underlying decking is weakened.
The weakening results from moisture damage, which means it’s probably time to get your roof replaced.
7. Chimney Flashing
Does your home have a chimney? The chimney area is of great concern. What is your flashing made of?
If your chimney flashing contains tar or roof cement, it might need replacing with a more long-term flashing solution. Water-tight fitting metal flashing systems last much longer.
If the flashing is damaged, get it fixed as soon as possible, before you have to replace the entire roof.
Don’t Wait to Get Your Residential Roof Checked
Is your residential roof upwards of 20 years old, and you’re wondering if it might need replacement? Have you noticed changes such as curling or buckling shingles?
Do you have a leak? From dark algae spots to granules in your gutters, there are many warning signs that indicate it’s time for a new residential roof.
The best thing you can do if you’re unsure is to contact a licensed, professional roofing service to make an assessment of your roof’s damage before it grows worse. Many roofing services offer free assessments and accurate quotes, so you shouldn’t have to worry about breaking the bank for that first visit.
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