5 Signs That You Need a Roof Repair or Replacement
The process of replacing or repairing a roof can be a stressful experience. From choosing a trustworthy contractor to managing the entire process and avoiding pitfalls, it’s no surprise that many homeowners put-off the project as long as possible.
Your roof does, however, represent a very important investment in the protection of your home. If your roof really needs to be repaired or replaced, it’s not a good idea to wait. Here’s a few key questions that can help you determine how well your roof is doing:
#1: How old is Your Roof?
The average effective lifespan of an asphalt roofing system is between 20 and 25 years. However, if you’ve ever had a contractor install new material over your existing roof, you may need to consider a roof replacement much sooner.
This practice, known as “overlaying,” serves as a quick fix or shortcut for some contractors. Unfortunately, it often means that there is a more serious problem hiding underneath your shingles.
#2: Are Your Shingles Damaged?
If you can see curling or missing shingles on your roof, this is a red flag that you may need a roofing repair or replacement. You should also check to see if there is a major build-up of shingle granules in your gutters. Both of these signal roof decay problems that will leave your home vulnerable to the elements.
#3: Do You Have Damaged or Missing Flashing?
The flashing systems on your roof are extremely important for the prevention of water infiltration. If you notice any broken, damaged or missing flashing, this is another big warning sign that you may be at a high risk for water damage soon.
#4: Have You Noticed Any Ice Damming?
During the winter, you should always check for ice damming issues. If a roof is not ventilated properly, the heat from the attic can melt snow on top of the roof. As the melted snow runs-off to the edge of the roofing system, the cold air causes it to re-freeze and form an ice dam.
As this process repeats itself, it adds significant pressure to the roof edges. It can eventually start to pull apart the materials on your roof and allow water to seep into your home.
#5: Have You Noticed Any Evidence of Water Damage?
In some cases, water damage can be very obvious. In others, it can be pretty hard to find at first. Any brown spots on your ceiling or walls is your first clue. You should also check the attic to see if the insulation is soggy in any places. If you can see any light coming through the roof, that’s another big red flag.
There may be other noticeable signs of damage to your roof. These key questions are just the start of a complete assessment.
Want A Professional Opinion?
If you think you might need a repair or replacement, it never hurts to give Wagner Roofing & Remodeling a call! We really want to help you get the most out of your home, so we’ll never pressure you into setting an appointment.
We have experience working with asphalt, metal, stone-coated steel, rubber and flat roofing systems. To learn more about how Wagner Roofing & Remodeling can help, click here.