If you've caught yourself glancing up at your roof lately, wondering if it will survive another storm, or if it just looks like it's seen better days, it may be time to replace it. Here are 8 signs to look for when determining if you need a roof replacement:
Age of the roof
The lifespan of a roof is typically about 20 years, with some types lasting as long as 25 or 30. Once you've surpassed this mark, it's time to start thinking about replacing it.
Roofs come in all different types of materials (shingles, tiles, rubber, wood, and more). The material plays an important role in the lifespan of your roof - wood shakes can last up to 40 years, for example, but asphalt roofs only have a life expectancy of around 15-20 years.
Curling or buckled shingles
If you notice that your shingles are curling or buckling, there's a good chance the roof needs to be replaced. These are signs of structural damage and indicate that the water is penetrating through cracks in the shingle layers.
Loss of granules on asphalt roofs
Asphalt roofs have sand-like granules mixed in with them. When they weather away over time, it means that the underlying material has most likely cracked or peeled off as well. Not only does this mean your roof isn't getting proper protection from the elements anymore, but it also means it may need to be removed soon because minor leaks can easily become major problems with cracked materials installed on top!
Missing shingles
If your roof is missing shingles, it means the top surface of your roof is no longer getting proper protection from the elements, and thus it may ultimately deteriorate faster. Moreover, if leaves or other debris get in between missing shingles, they can turn into a host to mildew and mold that are harmful to the material underneath!
Corroded roof valleys
Roof valleys are the areas that are formed when two slopes meet. They collect water and channel it off the roof. Leaves and other debris often get trapped in the valleys, which prevents the flow of water off the roof. This can lead to corrosion, which will result in significant damage to the roof.
Damaged flashing
Roof flashing is made of thin metal and is used for weatherproofing. It protects the roof from damage from objects such as tree branches, which can puncture it and cause leaks. Flashings are prone to rusting or any other kind of deterioration if they have not been installed properly. While damaged flashing can typically be replaced, significant damage to your roof may have already taken place.
Water damage
If you have visible signs of water damage on your ceiling or walls, there are compromised areas of your roof. Have it checked out as soon as possible to determine the amount of damage incurred and to prevent future damage.
Daylight is visible through the roof boards
If you can see light coming through your roof, then other things can probably seep through those cracks or holes too, along with cool or hot air escaping from your home. There is clearly something wrong with your roof and needs to be addressed as soon as possible.
Roofs are often ignored until there's a major problem, which usually results in damage to other parts of your home. At Nashville Roofers, we recommend having your roof inspected regularly so that smaller issues can be taken care of quickly.
Call today to schedule a free roof inspection!