So, your roof has seen better days. Don’t worry; you are not alone in this. But if your roof is really showing its age, it might be time for a roof replacement. After all, your roof is one of the most important parts of your home—it keeps the elements out and protects everything inside.
Neglecting roof problems can lead to water damage, mold issues, and even structural damage over time. Not good. The good news is there are a few clear signs to look for that will tell you if it’s time for a new roof. Read on to discover the major signs you need a new roof so you can take action before it’s too late.
Age of the Roof
If your roof is nearing the average lifespan of its material, it’s probably time for replacement. Asphalt shingles typically last 20-30 years, wood shingles need replacement after 30 years, and metal roofs can last 40-70 years.
To find out your roof’s age, check with the contractor or builder who installed it. If that’s not possible, look in your attic for the manufacturer’s date stamp on the trusses or sheathing. As a last resort, compare photos of your roof over time to spot subtle changes in its appearance and condition.
Curling or Buckling Shingles
If your shingles start curling up or buckling, it’s time for a new roof. The shingles on your roof are constantly exposed to sun, heat, cold, and moisture. Over time, this weathering causes the shingles to warp, bend, or ripple.
Curled or buckled shingles mean your roof is failing and no longer protecting your home properly. Ignoring this issue puts your home at risk of structural damage and water damage. It’s best to consider a roof replacement once shingles start noticeably curling to avoid costly repairs down the road.
Missing Shingles or Tiles
Missing shingles or tiles are a clear sign your roof has seen better days and probably needs replacing. When shingles start falling off, or tiles become loose, it allows water, snow, and ice to seep into gaps in the roof. This leads to leaks, water damage, and insulation issues.
Strong winds or an improperly installed roof are often the culprits behind shingles or tiles coming loose or going missing. The longer you wait to replace damaged or missing shingles, the worse the problem becomes.
Granules in the Gutters
If you start noticing little dark specks collecting in your gutters or downspouts, it’s likely roofing granules. These granules are the small stones embedded in shingles to protect the asphalt or tar material from weathering.
Over time, the granules loosen and wash off. Seeing an increase in granules in your gutters signals that your shingles are breaking down and losing their protective top layer. The loose granules themselves can also clog your gutters and prevent proper water flow and drainage.
Daylight Through the Roof Boards
Inspect your roof through your attic, especially on a sunny day. If you see beams of light coming through the roof, that means some cracks or holes need to be repaired or sealed. Water and moisture can seep in, causing extensive damage.
Call a professional roofer to evaluate your roof and provide an estimate for replacement. While patching a few minor cracks is an option, if there are multiple areas where light is visible or the damage looks significant, a full roof replacement is likely needed to prevent future issues.
Reach Out to Our Atlanta Roofing Contractors
For all your roof replacement needs, reach out to our professional contractors at Atlanta Roofing. We offer free estimates and consultations to assess the state of your current roof and provide recommendations for the best replacement options.
At Atlanta Roofing Contractors, we have years of experience dealing with the installation and repair of different roofs. These include but are not limited to asphalt shingle, metal, tile, and composite. Call us today at 404-737-7179.
We look forward to helping resolve your roofing needs!