4 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Roof

November 13, 2017

Roofs are an integral part of keeping us safe from the elements. There’s a reason the idiom for a home is having “a roof over your head”. With that in mind, keeping your roof in good condition is important for the health of your house. This includes knowing when it needs to be replaced. Here are signs to watch out for when it’s time to replace your roof:

1. Age of Roof

Roofs are susceptible to decay, thanks to the elements. Rain, snow, and hail – all forms of precipitation will wear away your roof. On average, a typical roof has a lifespan of 20 to 25 years. The number of shingle layers and the efficiency of a roof’s ventilation system can increase durability. When you are building your dream custom home, work with your builder to ensure your roof is efficient and durable. Having a timeframe will give you an idea of when the age of your roof might start affecting your home.

2. Condition of Shingles

Shingles are what compose most roofs. Fortunately, there are some very obvious signs letting us know they need work. The first sign is missing shingles. These are easy to spot. If a shingle is out of place, the roof will appear flatter and discolored in that section.

Missing shingles are often the result of old age or inclement weather. Shingles will also begin to curl and buckle as they age and need to be replaced – particularly on the sides of the roof most hit by the sun. Curling eventually leads to them falling off entirely.

Depending on the extent of the damage and the age of your roof, you may be able to repair it or may need to replace it entirely. If you have to replace your roof, it’s a good opportunity to consider other roofing materials or styles that may be a better fit for your home and future needs.

3. Rising Electricity Bills

Roofs are meant to protect your home from the elements, and they also insulate it. They keep the unwanted weather out and keep a moderate temperature inside. If you find that your electricity or heating bills have risen, then roof damage could be a potential culprit. If your roof is damaged and it cannot properly insulate your home, then your ventilation and heating systems must work that much harder to maintain the desired temperature.

4. Leaking

Leaking happens in the most extreme cases of roof decay. If your roof is leaking, that means parts of it have been completely destroyed. In this case, you must have it replaced immediately or the decay may spread. Not only are leaky ceilings unsightly, but they are also dangerous. The water damage from leaks can cause further rot and mold, which creates health concerns for your family.

There are several other signs to look out for when it comes to your roof, but these are some of the biggest signs it’s time to replace your roof. Roof repair is definitely not something you want to neglect. Thankfully, there are some things you can do to care for your roof and help lengthen its life span.