Your roof is one of the most important structures in your home that helps to protect you and your family. While most homeowners believe that their roof will last for up to 25 years, there are many problems that could occur before your roof has reached that age. With the right care, your roof will last longer, but if you notice early wear, you could have a problem.
Your roof takes a lot of abuse from seasonal storms, wind, and sun damage. Over time, you could start to notice that your shingles are showing signs of damage. Replacing your roof is a large expense, but one that shouldn’t be put off. Damage to your roof and shingles could result in further structural damage.
A roof replacement is a big job, and you may be wondering about the best season for roof repair. Generally, the summer or spring weather is fine enough to allow your crew the time and proper conditions to get the job done. Let’s take a closer look at a few of the signs that will tell you that it’s time to replace your roof.
Curled Shingles
If you can see that some of the edges of your roof’s shingles are starting to curl upwards, it could be an indication of water damage or moisture under your water barrier. When there is excess moisture in your attic space, the evaporation process can force the nails holding your shingles upward, causing them to curl or buckle.
Granules
Your shingles are manufactured with sand-like granules on the surface to aid in water distribution. When you clean out your gutters, if you notice that there are a lot of granules in your eaves, it could mean that your shingles are wearing out. When your shingles become bare of their granules, they lose their ability to properly direct water off of your roof, putting you at risk of leaks.
Missing Shingles
One of the most obvious signs that it may be time for a new roof is that you have a few missing shingles. Some storm damage can occur in high winds, but if you notice that your roof is missing random shingles, it could indicate that your structure is losing its integrity and should be replaced.
Light
The purpose of your roof is to create a solid barrier from the outside to protect your home. If you can see any points of light coming into your attic space, you have a problem. Missing shingles or cracks in your roofing are indications that your roof may be allowing moisture to enter the house.
Ice Dams
In the middle of winter, if you are getting large icicles or ice dams forming at the edge of your roof, it could indicate that you have a problem with your roofing. Your shingles are meant to divert moisture off of the surface efficiently. Ice dams form when your shingles have gaps or are misaligned.
High Bills
If your energy bills are excessively high, it could mean that it’s time to replace your roof. If heat is escaping through your roof, your heating system is forced to work overtime, making your bills go through the literal roof. You will need to have an inspection done to tell you where the problem is and if it is time for a roof replacement.
Attic Temperature
Your attic temperature is meant to be consistent with the outdoor temperature. With the right venting, your attic should allow the proper airflow to maintain the right temperature balance. If your attic is warmer than the outside temperature, you could have a problem with ventilation. A lack of proper airflow can cause ice dams to form and create a buildup of moisture in your attic, resulting in structural damage.
Algae
When mossy algae start to form on your shingles, it could mean that it’s time to replace your roof. Manufacturers often try to save money by using fillers like limestone in their shingles. This limestone can attract algae that will eat away at the shingles and interfere with their structural integrity. Once your shingles are damaged, they potentially will allow moisture to reach the interior of your roof, causing damage.
Mold
Mold can be hazardous to your health and your roof. If your attic is not properly vented, moist air can get trapped, creating an environment where mold can thrive. As moisture builds up in your attic, it creates condensation that can quickly create a mold and mildew problem. If not corrected quickly, this moisture can cause your roofing base plywood to rot, creating structural damage.
As a homeowner, you want your roof to give your home the right protection. When you start to notice serious issues like missing shingles, a loss of granules, or moisture in your attic, you have a clear indication that you may have a problem with your roof. A seasonal inspection of your roof will alert you to any serious problems. Look for any one of these signs that your roof may need replacement to save you and your home from unwanted damage.
