Signs a Roof Replacement is Needed
Missing shingles are a clear sign of a failing roof.
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 roof inspection, installation, sealing and repair. We offer shingle services, tile roof services, flat roof services, roof cleaning, roof inspection, roof installation, leak repair, roof recovering, roof repair, roof sealing, skylight installation and replacement, and wood shake services for commercial and residential customers.
