Many homeowners take their roofs for granted. But roofs have a key role in protecting us from weather damage. And unfortunately, they don’t last forever. Most homes have asphalt roofing which lasts a maximum of 20 years and only if the conditions are ideal (clear weather, regular maintenance and proper gutters).
Tile, wood and metal roofing lasts longer, but it is equally vulnerable to difficult weather. So besides checking your warranties, if you suspect that your roof is starting to deteriorate, here are some common signs that indicate the need for roof replacement:
1. Attic Leaks
The first place you should investigate is the attic. If you notice unpleasant smells, mold growth and rotten wood, you probably have a broken roof. To find the leak, follow the trail of rot and damp. The experience may be unpleasant so wear a mask and some gloves while you are at it.
If attic leaks go unfixed, they can spread to other parts of your home including the basement and foundation floors. So, call a professional roofing company to repair your attic leaks and replace that old roof, before the ceiling starts to collapse.
2. Algae & Moss
When nature starts spreading its roots around your home, it means that things have started to go astray. Mold, moss, algae and even bird nests are a sign that your roof started to deteriorate. They are most likely to occur on wooden roofing, especially if there hasn’t been regular maintenance involved.
Sometimes algae and moss may just mean that your roof is dirty, but in most cases, it is a sign for moisture build up and immediate replacement. And if there is mold all over the place, check your gutters, roof and pipes. Unwanted excess water can come from lots of places and a poor or damaged roof is one of them.
3. Broken or Missing Shingles
Roofs can be made from many different types of shingles such as fiberglass, terracotta, copper and wood. But what every type of roof has in common is that these shingles can break, fade or even start to go missing. This usually happens in old roofs or after a severe storm.
If your shingles start to curl up or break, you probably need roof replacement. To check whether the whole roof is the problem or just a part of it, schedule free consultations and put your mind at ease because missing shingles can lead to more complicated things.
4. Sagginess
One of the worst-case scenarios is having a saggy roof. This looks like somebody has vacuumed the roof from the inside or like a car has fallen on it. Saggy roofs can lead to damage considering the whole house, including the foundation or structure. If you notice inward bending or if the attic starts to seem smaller, call a roofing company and see what’s going on.
Sometimes sagginess can occur because of structural damage and not the other way around. When the experts are inspecting your home, make sure they explain the reasons behind the sagginess and whether it is due to structural misalignment and cracks.
