Roofs are an integral component of a house and aim to provide high-level protection from external environmental elements. Initially, your roof will have high efficiency to protect the house and your family. Over time, though, the efficiency decreases.
How do you know when it’s the right time to replace your roof? You should look for potential signs indicating the need for roof replacement.
Here are eight potential signs to look for…
#1 The Age Of The Roof
Roofs have an average service life. Usually the service life of a typical roof is around 25 to 30 years. If you are using the roof beyond the average lifespan, it may not work efficiently. Even after regular maintenance, you may not get the desired results from your older roofing system. This is because the components lose their efficiency. The components wear down over time. This is an indication that you need to replace the roof.
#2 Excessive Water Leaks
Roofs can experience water leaks during heavy rainfall and snowfall. Sometimes water leaks are consistent throughout the year. When this is the case, it shows that the roof is severely damaged.
#3 Uncontrolled Growth Of Mold/Mildew
Excessive moisture and water retention by the roof cause the growth of mold on the surface. Usually this happens during the rainy season or after a lot of snowfall. The growth of mold is typically limited to certain areas. When you start to observe the growth of mold/mildew covering the entire roof, though, it is a serious problem. It means the roof’s structural integrity has been compromised. It could even collapse.
#4 Damaged Shingles
The topmost layer of the roof is covered with shingles. Shingles are essential for providing protection to the roof underlayment and the house itself. Within a time span of a year or two after installation, shingles may suffer from various damages. When almost 80 to 90 percent of shingles are broken, cracked, curled-up or have blisters then it’s time for a roof replacement.
#5 Issues With The Insulation
When the roof ventilation undergoes severe damage, it will have an impact on the insulation of the house. You will experience a sudden spike in the cost of your utility bills. This shows that your roof ventilation is not allowing air to move out– instead it’s blocking it. Moreover, there is likely an increase in the moisture content in the roof underlayment. This is an indication that you need a roof replacement.
#6 Roof Flashing Damage
Flashing is the protective layer around the chimney. It protects the edges of the roof and prevents water leaks. If the flashing develops cracks due to any reason, it won’t be able to serve its purpose. You can observe water leaks around the chimney and roof edges. If the flashing damage is minor, fix it; If you’ve got major damage, consider roof replacement.
#7 Roof Sagging
Roof sagging happens when you are experiencing a problem with water getting trapped inside the roof. There’s water retention in the roof underlayment. The wood of the roof underlayment will rot due to the excessive presence of water and moisture. Roof sagging is an indication that you need a roof replacement.
#8 Damages In The Gutter(s)
Gutters are an essential component of any roofing system. They safeguard the roof by keeping it dry and clean. But what if the gutters do not perform efficiently? Water will get blocked in the gutters due to excessive debris. Clogs will lead to blocked and stagnant water and potential ice dams. Winter ice dams exert pressure on the gutter(s) and often cause them to crack.
Summary
Having knowledge of your roof and its potential damages helps you to take preventive measures. Whenever you come across damage on the roof, get help from professionals. Born Carpentry provides reliable roofing services. Call Born Carpentry of Andover, MN, at 612-747-8003 with your questions or to make an appointment.