7 Common Signs That You Need A New Roof

Did you know that the roof is one of the most important components of your home or commercial property? In essence, it protects both you and your property from being exposed to the elements. However, roofs wear out over time and must be replaced. Failure to have a new roof installed when it’s needed can lead to a tremendous amount of unnecessary damage to your home or building. The bottom line is that as a property owner you need to be well aware of the state of your roof. 

The question that you may be asking yourself at this point is how do you know when it’s time to have your roof replaced? The following information will provide you with seven (7) common signs that you need a new roof. 

7 Telltale Signs It's Time for a Roof Replacement

Your Roof Is Old Or Getting Old

An average roof should last approximately twenty (20) years on a residential or commercial property. If your roof is that old or older than you should have it inspected by a professional roofing company. Even if you don’t see any of the following common signs that you need a new roof you may very well need to have your roof replaced now or in the near future. The longevity of your roof depends on several factors such as the ventilation and if the roof was removed or layered upon in the past. 

The Shingles Are Showing Their Age

A telltale sign that your roof is getting old and needs to be replaced is when the shingles start to look damaged. You may also notice that some of the shingles are actually missing. Cracks and holes in the shingles, and curled shingles are red flags that your roof is damaged. Failure to address the issue provides water an easy access to enter into the wood deck below the roof shingles. Once that happens it can rot the wood. At that point, it will be a significantly more expensive and extensive repair. 

Contact a professional roofing company if you notice....

  • The shingles have holes in them

  • The shingles are cracked

  • The shingles are curling up

  • Any shingles are missing

The Color Of The Shingles Are Inconsistent

Did you know that when your roof is new or on the newer side, the shingles will have a consistent color across the entire surface of your roof? When your roof is starting to fail and needs to be replaced you will begin to notice that the shingles start to look discolored and mottled in appearance. If you have wood shingles, a chance in the color is a key indicator that they are suffering from rot and need to be replaced sooner rather than later.

The Roof Is Leaking

If your roof is leaking the bottom line is that you need a new roof. That being stated, some leaks are more obvious to detect than others. For example, if the ceiling in your bedroom is leaking you will know it right away. You may even feel the ceiling dripping water as you’re trying to sleep. Before it gets to that point your roof will typically start leaking into the attic. If your roof is on the older side it’s always a smart idea to go up into the attic on a regular basis in order to check it for leaks. Look closely for any signs that water has entered into your property. 

Signs Your Roof Is Leaking

  • Water is dripping from the ceiling down the walls

  • The ceilings have water stains

  • Water is entering into the attic

You Can See Light In The Attic

While you’re up in the attic checking for signs of leaks, it’s also a smart idea to see if you can see any light penetrating through the roof boards. If you see light, it means your roof is in trouble and needs to be replaced. In essence, it means that water has damaged the roof structure and needs to be repaired immediately. Once you climb down from the attic, your first order of business should be to contact a professional roofing company to schedule a roof inspection and estimate. 

Debris Starts Collecting In The Gutters

Did you know that asphalt shingles shed embedded granules as they near the end of their life cycle? That means you will begin to see the granules and pieces of shingle in your gutters when your roof needs to be replaced. 

Your Roof Is Sagging

If your roof is sagging, you can typically see it by standing in the yard or grounds. The bottom line is that your roof should not sag in any manner. A sagging roof is dangerous and can easily lead to structural failure. 

In conclusion, the information as listed above is all telltale signs that you need a new roof. If you do need a new roof, do not delay. Failure to do so will lead to damages to your property that are significantly more expensive to fix than replacing the roof shingles. If you’re curious as to the costs of having a new roof installed, according the national average the investment in your property ranges from $5,000 to $30,000. Although adding a new layer of shingles over the existing layer can be 25% less expensive, it is highly advised to have the old shingles removed before having the new roof installed. 

Let us inspect your roof and send you a roof installation estimate.