Signs a Roof Replacement is Needed

Roofs protect the interior of a house from the elements, keep residents warm and dry, and conserve energy. A decaying roof can mean serious trouble for the rest of the home.

Let’s explore some signs of wear and tear that merit prompt attention.

Age of the roof

Most roofs last about 20 to 30 years, with 50 being the maximum life expectancy most manufacturers guarantee. A roof this old or even older may need considerable repairs or a replacement.

Visible wear

Look for curled edges or cupped shingle tabs as signs of wear and tear. They’re some of the telltale signs that the roof is wearing out. Bald spots where granules are missing are also a sign of wear, as are cracked shingles, which can be due to wind damage.

Any of these signs mean it’s a good time to contact a professional roofing company for advice.

Shingles and roof valleys

Missing shingles are a clear sign of a failing roof. Compromised shingles can cause leaks through roof valleys or rain directly seeping in.

Granules in the gutters

If shingle granules appear on the gutters, they are breaking down. Look for coarse, black, sand-like material, the residual from granules collected in the gutters.

Sagging roof

If the roof sags, the end of its lifespan may be drawing near. Moreover, it could imply structural problems with the roof’s construction. Sagging happens when moisture gets trapped under the roof, or the boards rot. Therefore, this problem will likely appear in humid and rainy climates.

Algae and wet spots

Algae and wet spots don’t have to mean a roof needs replacement, but they’re worth investigating. In the worst-case scenario, they could be surface-level manifestations of more severe problems. For example, they could mean moisture is building up under the roof, possibly causing rot. Have a professional roofer inspect them to determine if they signal the need for significant repairs or even a new roof.

Daylight through roof boards

You shouldn’t be able to see the sunlight seeping through the roof boards. If daylight is visible, it could mean serious issues, such as failing roofing materials.

Water damage

A failing roof will likely let moisture and water leak through the ceilings. Check for water stains on ceilings and walls. While such stains aren’t necessarily roof-related, they could be the signs of a major issue with the roof.

Safeguard the roof

Have a professional inspect your roof periodically. While none of these signs alone mean replacing the old roof, a combination of issues could indicate potential damage that demands prompt action.

Irish Roofing Company provides Scottsdale with residential tile roof installation and replacement, shingle roof installation and replacement, metal roof installation and replacement, roof repair, roofing maintenance, and roof inspection services. Count on our uniformed, knowledgeable, and experienced roofers for high-quality roofing solutions.