Often, the roof happens to be the most overlooked part of a house in terms of maintenance. Unless you notice the shingles falling apart or a leakage, you would probably let as it is. Well, regular inspection can help you detect potential dangers much before they strike. People afraid of heights generally hire a roofing contractor or manufacturer to inspect the conditions of their roofs.
Now, you might be wondering when you should be replacing your roof, right? Here are certain signs that indicate that your old roof has served its purpose.
- Missing shingles
- Cracked, damaged or loose shingles
- Rotting or molds
- Missing shingles
- Dark spots or holes
- Signs of leaking or water damage
Conducting a visual inspection twice a year would be sufficient to determine when a replacement would be necessary. Of course, you wouldn’t wait till the condition of your roof deteriorates to the extent of collapsing.
Roof replacement time based on material
The durability of your roof largely depends on the material used to make it. Have a look at the average lifespan of different types of roof, based on material.
- Asphalt shingles: 15 to 30 years
- Composition shingles: 12 to 20 years
- Wood shingles: 20 to 25 years
- Metal roofs: 50 to 75 years
- Rubber roofs: 30 to 50 years
- Elastomeric membrane roof: Around 30 years
These timeframes may vary depending on several factors like the quality of maintenance and climate. The materials may get worn out more quickly if the roof is exposed to humid climate and severe winters. It is recommended to get your roof inspected for possible damage after high winds or storm. Remember, your roof offers essential protection to your possessions as well as your family members. Evidently, you should take care of the structural integrity of your roof.
Signs that indicate that your roof needs a replacement
Here are certain indicators that tell that you need to get your roof replaced. Under such conditions, it would be wise to reach out to a reputed roofing contractor.
- Buckled or curled shingles
In case you notice that the shingles have become curled or buckled, it clearly indicates age. Therefore, you need to get your roof replaced. The shingles may buckle due to the accumulation of moisture, that pushes the nails up from the decking of the roof. Evidently, your home would be left exposed to the external elements. During a storm, the roof may blow off altogether.
- Missing granules
When you find the granules missing, it clearly indicates that your roof is losing its ability to stand the weather. Have a look at the gutters on the roof and try to find out whether or not the granules have accumulated there. At times, the granules accumulate in the downspout splash pan. When you shake it, you would hear a rattling sound. This eventually means that your roof needs a replacement.
- Growth of algae or tar streaking
At times, bacteria growing on the shingles eat them up over a period of time, which make the shingles lose their weatherproofing abilities. You would notice algae growth or tar streaking on your roof under this condition. This happens when you use cheap shingles, or the manufacturing company uses limestone or other fillers to minimize the cost. Algae can eat this limestone away, resulting in black streaking. In case this happens, you have no other alternative than to replace your roof.
Apart from this, you might notice streaks of light peering through your ceiling, or the temperature in your attic different from the interiors. Have a consultation with the established roofing contractors around. You may consider replacing your existing roof with an asphalt shingle one, or any other type of roof. With the right service providers around, you can get your roof replaced at an affordable cost.
