A roof is an integral part of your home, and you need to keep a close eye on it to ensure that it’s functional in all seasons. No matter how strong the roof appears, there are times you’ll need to do a roof replacement.
Most homeowners don’t give the roof much attention until when they spot a leak, or in Brad Pitt’s case, have an antenna issue. Some do not know when the roof needs a replacement, especially when they don’t inspect it often. Below are signs that your roof needs a replacement.
Water Damage
A roof can get damaged in all seasons, whether hot or cold. Water is among the significant causes of roof damage. When you spot water leaks, you might think that its water droplets from the window. But it could be coming from the roof. If you notice that the roof is damaged by water, it’s a sign your house needs a roof replacement.
Mold and Mildew Growth
Mold and mildew is a common element that affects the roof. Check out for any signs of mold outside the roof. Overgrown mold can make the tiles separate, which lets in water. Inspect the tiles and find out if there are rotting signs or mold. Make urgent steps to replace the roof.
Light Reflection from the Roof
You may not quickly identify light coming through the roof if your house is always bright. Turn off lights and inspect the roof, checking for any gaps that could be letting in light. Do this often, and you’re likely going to identify various spots.
If you spot any light coming in from the roof, it indicates that the roof has holes and cracks and needs immediate replacement.
Loose Shingles
Make it a habit to inspect the roof shingles, especially after a massive storm. Shingles shouldn’t be loose but need to remain flat-lying against the roof. If you spot loose shingles, patched or cracked, it’s high time to replace the roof.
A weak roof can cause injuries to the household. As you check the state of the shingles, don’t forget to inspect the downspouts and gutters. Ensure that the granules are all intact. If the roof is losing many granules, give it a replacement.
Sagging Roof
A functional roof needs to have a straight line on the ridge. If you notice it sagging at the center, you may need to give it quick attention. If you delay replacing the roof, it can collapse. The leading cause of a sagging roof is constant exposure to moisture and water. Low-quality materials and poor installation, snow and ice could also be the cause.
When you plan to replace the roof, ensure you use quality materials, and have the work done by a professional contractor. Additionally, understand how much weight your roof can hold to avoid overloading the roof.
Damaged Flashing
Flashing consists of roof vents and chimneys. Flashing can be damaged when the caulking material under it dries out or when the materials deteriorate due to harsh weather conditions and oxidation.
If the flashing becomes loose, it causes water leaks in the ceiling and walls, causing severe damage and building up mildew and mold. As this stays for long, the wood starts rotting, and this should be a sign to replace the roof.
Roof Lifespan
Every type of roofing material has a lifespan. However, aging depends on roof maintenance, weather elements, and how the roof was installed. The three elements can either shorten or elongate the life span on the roof.
Another age determining factor is the number of layers used during installation. For instance, a roof with multiple layers and over 20 years may need a replacement as soon as possible.
Stay Afloat
Keeping a close eye to your home may not be easy, especially if you have busy schedules every day. No matter how busy you may be, it’s crucial to set aside time to inspect your roof frequently so that you don’t get more damages or even injuries to the household.