Your roof is a part of your house that constantly protects you and your loved ones from elements 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. This makes it subject to extreme weather conditions and changes in temperature. Unfortunately, too many homeowners don’t pay much attention to the roof over their heads until something happens to it. If you’ve been neglecting yours for far too long, don’t be surprised if you encounter a leak in your ceiling and a host of other roofing problems that may require extensive repair or a roof replacement. Before calling a roofer, take a look at these 7 warning signs you might need a new roof:
1. You Have an Old Roof
One of the most common reasons why people replace their roofs is age. Most asphalt-shingle roofs last 12 to 15 years. If yours is nearing its 12-year mark and roof repairs have been made over the top of an existing roof, it probably needs to be checked for replacement. In case you’re wondering, the factors that influence the acceleration of your roof’s aging process include constant exposure to sunlight, inadequate ventilation, improper design, and the lack of regular maintenance.
2. Curling, Buckling, Broken or Missing Shingles
You’ll know that your shingles are way past their life expectancy or have poorly-installed underlayment when you spot vertical waves running up your roof. Curling takes place when the shingle’s sides are turned outward. On the other hand, a buckling shingle looks like there’s something underneath it that’s pushing it upwards. Both conditions usually occur as a result of increasing roof age, excessive moisture, and a lack of ventilation.
Furthermore, broken or missing shingles that are left unattended will significantly decrease your roof system’s capacity to repel water. When this happens, water could easily enter your house and cause considerable damage. Since roofs are constantly exposed to Mother Nature’s havoc, it’s best to have them replaced as soon as you notice these warning signs.
3. Sagging Roof Lines
Rooflines shouldn’t be anything but straight. Sagging roof lines isn’t just an aesthetic issue that you’d want to ignore. Whether it’s caused by advanced roof aging, poorly-designed roof joints and rafters or the accumulation of snow and ice for several months, you’ll need to have a new roof in place before your old one collapses.
4. Granules in the Gutter
Your roof shingles have granules that protect your home from outside elements by reflecting UV rays from the sun, resisting fires, and adding color to your roof. However, due to weathering, hailstorms, and daily heat exposure, these granules would eventually come off resulting in roof failure. When you clean your gutters, try to see whether they’re loaded up with shingle granules. Another sign of granules that have worn away is inconsistent dark spots in some areas of your roof.
5. Persistent Roof Leaks
Do you notice unexplained large wet water stains on your walls and ceiling? Do you hear dripping in the ceiling following wind-driven rain? If you say yes to both questions, then it’s time to be concerned. Roof leaks are usually caused by damaged flashing, condensation in your heating A/C or cracked shingles. Keep in mind that chronic leaks can greatly compromise the structure of your home which is why this problem requires an immediate roofing contractor near you.
6. Plant Growth
You may be someone who likes to see plants growing on your roof because of the fact that they add a medieval feel to its overall look. However, since moss, algae, and climbing vines retain moisture, cause discoloration, and divert the draining water’s path, you might eventually threaten your roof’s integrity. As the plant’s root system burrows underneath your shingles, they could cause them to buckle and curl until considerable damage is done to your roofing system.
7. Unwelcome Animal Guests
Were you shocked to find animals taking up residence in your attic? These uninvited houseguests probably found their way inside your house through a breach in the roof. If you want to keep these creatures at bay, you may want to consider a roof replacement.
Roof maintenance is extremely important. Failure to do so may lead to serious consequences that include foundation issues and safety hazards. If your roof has been neglected for years, learn to recognize the warning signs mentioned above and promptly replace your roofing system as needed.
Tornado Roofing provide excellent roofing services including roofing repairs, maintenance and replacement. We are very straightforward with our estimates. Our knowledgeable and skilled team of contractors will make sure that you are satisfied with our service. We hold proper State Licensing and comply with the Florida Building Codes and high velocity hurricane zone requirements.
