4 WAYS TO TELL IF YOU NEED TO REPLACE YOUR ROOF
when to replace your roof Your roof protects your home from the elements but it isn’t invincible. Every home will need a roof replacement eventually and some will need it sooner than others. Typically, a roof can last you anywhere between 20 and 25 years depending on the roofing material used. However, since there’s no reminder set to tell you when to replace your roof, you’ll need to look for the signs.
CHECK FOR LEAKS
The first place to look for signs that it’s time to replace your roof is your attic. You’ll need to inspect the eaves and infrastructure for things like stains or streaks which indicate a water leak. Light peeking through the top of your attic are also signs that your roof has been compromised.
CHECK YOUR INSTALLATION DATE
Go through your records to find the paperwork from when you had your roof installed. Most contractors will give you a rough estimate of how long you should expect your roof to last. Check the install date and any other related paperwork to get a good indication of when to replace your roof. If you have asphalt shingles and your roof was installed 25 years ago, then you probably need to call your roofing company.
CHECK THE SHINGLES
As you know, roofing shingles are supposed to lay flat on your roof, overlapping one another. If any of your shingles are bowed, curled, broken, or damaged in any other shape or form, it could be time for a replacement. Sometimes, if the damage is isolated to a small section after a storm, you may only need to replace the shingles. However, if the damage is extensive and is combined with water leaks inside the house, you’ll want to call your local roofing contractors.
CHECK FOR SAGGING
A sagging roof is a clear sign it’s time for a total roof replacement. Over time, your roof can become compromised by water and storm damage that will cause extensive rot. That rot will slowly eat away at your roof’s integrity, leaving a large droopy spot where the materials are weakest.
Another great way to know when to replace your roof is to have it inspected. Typically, you should have your roof inspected biannually or annually and the inspector can give you a rough estimate of its remaining lifespan and any current damages. If your roof needs to be replaced, it’s essential that you do so immediately to avoid further damage to your home.
