How do you know when your house needs a new roof? There are various tell-tale signs, and some of them are pretty simple and straightforward. What’s most important is that you inspect your roof with a critical eye to evaluate its condition before you consider a roof installation.
According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, you should inspect your roof in the spring and fall. In spring you’ll be looking for damage from the past winter’s snow and ice. In fall, you’ll need to clean out any debris, such as leaves, from your gutters and downspouts so they won’t clog. That’s a good time to check for roof damage, or signs that your roof is nearing the end of its life.
Think you need a new roof because you have a leak? Maybe, maybe not. The following questions should help you decide whether you need a reroof or just a repair. If in doubt, call us for a no-obligation evaluation. We specialize in roof installation in Dearborn Michigan http://roofingdearborn.com.
- How old is your roof?
When was your current roof installed, meaning either totally replaced or just reshingled? Most asphalt roofing shingles are made to last from 20-25 years, although a number of factors will affect their life. Harsh weather, insufficient ventilation and lots of debris on a roof (such as leaves from trees) can damage and age shingles. Installing a new roof over an existing roof will also shorten the life of asphalt shingles. Today new GAF.com shingles are made to last a lifetime.
- Are your shingles curling?
Examine the slopes of your roof that are directly in the sun and see if you spot either shingle curling or buckling. Curing or buckling shingles are one indication you will likely need a new roof. If your roof isn’t that old and your shingles curl, you may have defective shingles.
- Do you have shingle granules in your gutters?
Those granules that coat your shingles help protect them from wear (and provide those nice colors). And while it’s common for shingles to lose some of their granules during heavy rains, granules tend to come off more as the shingles age and become drier and stiffer. You also may see areas on your roof where the granules are gone.
- Does your roof have shingles missing?
Asphalt shingles may be torn off even on a newer roof, if the wind is severe enough. That’s especially true should a nail come loose or if there was incorrect installation. But older shingles are less flexible and more easily picked up by those nasty wind gusts and end up in your neighbor’s yard. That’s an indication you need to think about a new roof installation. Check the roof valleys too. Missing shingles in that area may lead to leaks.
- Is there anything growing on your roof?
Algae and moss are two culprits that can make a roof look unsightly. Algae spores are carried by animals and the wind, and once entrenched can cause dark streaks on a roof. Algae may not harm your roof and can be cleaned with environmentally friendly, biodegradable products, using caution not to damage your shingles. Moss is another matter. Moss grows on surfaces that don’t get much sunlight and can hold moisture that can damage a roof over time. While you can carefully brush it off, the moss will likely regrow.
- Can you see daylight through the roof boards?
If you are able to get into your attic, it’s a good idea to do so during daylight hours and check your roof. If you can see daylight coming through the roof boards, your roof life may be over. It’s also wise to check for moisture in the attic, another sign of a possible roof failure.
It’s important to inspect your roof after a severe storm for damage. And if your roof simply appears old, worn, or sagging, it’s time to get an estimate for a new roof from http://roofingdearborn.com. If you really do need a new roof and delay replacing it, you could end up with bigger and more costly problems.
