One of the most common roofing questions that homeowners have is, “How often should I replace or repair my roof?” This is largely influenced by the material your roof is made from.
Roofs made from asphalt shingles average a 15-30 year life. On the other extreme, roofs made with metal can last upwards of 50-75 years before needing replacement.
Still, there are some sure-fire signs you need a new rood–even if it’s made from the sturdiest material.
1. A Sagging Ceiling
A sagging ceiling can be a serious sign that it’s time for a roof replacement. Often, it is caused by water build-up between your roof and ceiling.
If left unrepaired or unreplaced, your roof could eventually fall through.
A sagging ceiling may not always be obvious. If you spot what looks like a small bubble or soft spot in your ceiling, test it with a broom handle. If the ceiling gives or bubbles up, it’s got water damage.
The sooner you have it looked at and repaired, the less damage you are likely to incur.
2. Wind Damage
High winds are a common cause of roof damage. Storms and inclement weather can rip shingles right off your roof.
If you notice missing shingles, get them repaired immediately. The longer you leave empty spaces on your roof, the more vulnerable your roof becomes. Leaks, cracks, and holes can develop where missing shingles used to be.
3. Creature Damage
Mice, bats, squirrles, racoons, birds, insects, and many kinds of creatures like to make their home in your roof. As these critters burrow in or build their homes in your roof, they cause damage.
Small holes occur or cracks in your roof. This leads to further damage and leaking.
4. Hail Damage
If you live in an area where hailstorms are common, they can become a danger to your roof’s health.
The impact of hail gradually knocks granuals off of your shingles and weakens them. Weakened shingles lead to leaks or overall roof deterioration. If you have severe damage from hail, you may need a total roof replacement.
5. Substantial Moss Growth
One of the signs you need a new roof could be as simple as visible moss growth. Sadly, this is a form of roof damage that many homeowners don’t take seriously.
Moss grows where there is excess moisture. Excess moisture can lead to bacteria growth, mold growth, or water damage.
Sometimes moss can be removed with a simple bleach and water solution. However, if your roof has substantial moss growth and you suspect leaking becuase of it, it’s time to call a professional.
6. It’s More Than 15 Years Old
If your roof is at least 15 years old, (even if it’s made of metal), it’s worth getting it looked at.
15 years is typically the minium amount of time a roof is said to last. That’s with the cheapest materials.
Anything over 15 years and you’re roof is “getting up there” in age. A professional roofer can asses your roof and let you know if it’s time for a touch-up, for repairs, or for a replacement.
Fortunately, roofs made of sturdy materials are less likely to have serious damage resulting in roof replacement at this point.
7. Curling Shingles
One of the biggest signs that your shingles are wearing out is when they begin to curl at the ends.
Weather and normal roofing wear creates valleys between shingles. It can also lead to curling shingles where they normally connect with the neighboring shingle.
Sometimes a roof will last for a while even with curling shingles. Still, it’s wise to have them looked at by a professional who can tell you if they are far enough gone to need replacing.
8. Improper Installation
Shody craftmanship often results in shingles that deteriorate quickly. If your roof wasn’t installed properlly, you may see shingles falling or breaking often and easily.
Unfortunately, poorly installed roofs can mean a shorter life for your roof. They can lead to leaking or other problems that are costly to repair.
The best way to avoid this is to have experienced roofing professionals install your roof in the first place. The best houses have quality roofing material that’s been installed up to the highest roofing standards.
9. Light Peaking Through
When you look up at your ceiling with the lights off and see rays of light shining through, it’s not a good sign. In fact, it means your roof has sustained damage and is far enough along that an entire replacement may be needed.
Think of it this way, if light is getting through, other things are as well. Water, critters, wind, debris, you name it.
Light streaks coming through your ceiling are a clear indicator that shingles are missing and leakage is happening. This can lead to damage to more than your roof as water enters your home and create mold or mildew.
Light streaking through your ceiling is one of the more serious signs that you need professional help repairing or replacing your roof. Don’t wait to contact a roofing specialist at the first sign of light streaks in the ceiling of your home or business.
More Serious Signs You Need a New Roof
Signs you need a new roof extend beyond obvious holes or water leaks. While these well-known signs should never be ignored, there are still many less-obvious indicators you need professional help.
Roofing damage can be more than costly, it can be dangerous. When in doubt, reach out to an experienced roofing specialist near you.
For more helpful home care tips, browse the Residential portion of our blog.
