Your roof is your home's first line of defense against the elements, but unfortunately, they don't last forever. Over time, wear and tear, weather damage, and natural aging take their toll.
Here's a summary of the general signs that your roof needs replacement.
Needs Extensive Repairs: This is a broad indicator that the overall condition of your roof is compromised. Extensive repairs suggest numerous issues throughout the roof, making a full replacement more cost-effective and reliable in the long run compared to patching multiple areas.
Leaking, Sagging, or Water Damage: These are all red flags that point to a failing roof. Leaks allow water intrusion which can damage ceilings, walls, insulation, and even structural elements. Sagging indicates the roof deck is compromised and can't support its weight, posing a safety risk. Water damage from leaks weakens materials and promotes mold growth.
Water Stains on Ceilings: Water stains are a telltale sign of a leak in the roof above. The location of the stain might not pinpoint the exact source of the leak, but it definitely indicates water is getting through and needs immediate attention.
Excessive Roofing Material Debris in Gutters or Yard: Large amounts of granules (the small pebbles on asphalt shingles) or broken pieces of shingles accumulating in gutters or the yard signal significant wear and tear on the roof. This means the protective layer of your shingles is deteriorating, exposing the underlying material to the elements and increasing the risk of leaks.
We strongly suggest you watch this short four-minute video with Ken Lillejord, our Roofing Consultant, Residential & Commercial.
Ken has over 44 years of roofing experience and extensive knowledge of roofs and roofing materials. He talks about the process he uses to help you choose the best roofing solution for your new or replacement roof.
Specific wear indicators for the type of roofing materials on your roof:
Asphalt shingle roof
Missing Granules: When viewed from the ground, missing granules look like dark patches on light shingles or lighter patches if the shingles are black or dark. When you clean, you will also see large amounts of granules in the gutters.
Curling Shingles: Curling is the result of the asphalt in the shingles drying and shrinking over time, making them brittle.
Lots of Moss: Widespread, long-term moss growth damages shingles. The moss also gets under them and starts to lift them up.
Shingles Blown Off the Roof: If the shingles have blown off your roof, it could mean that the majority of shingles have dried and cracked as a result of exceeding its life span. The alternative is that the shingles were fastened incorrectly during install. Both options are a potential requirement for a full roof replacement.
Age of Roof: This is an important factor to consider as, unfortunately, the older styles of asphalt shingles do not last as long as their warranties indicate.
Cedar Shake Roof
Curling, Splitting, or Cupping of Shingles: As cedar shakes age, they can become warped or cupped, losing their ability to shed water effectively. Splitting shakes create openings for water infiltration. Depending on the severity, both situations require repairs or replacement.
Moss Growth: While adding a certain rustic charm, excessive moss growth on a cedar shake roof can trap moisture and accelerate shingle deterioration.
Insect Infestation: Cedar shakes are susceptible to insect damage, particularly from wood-boring beetles. Extensive infestation weakens the shakes and necessitates repairs or replacement
Concrete Tile Roof:
Cracked or Broken Tiles: Concrete tiles are generally durable, but they can crack or break due to impact, age, or extreme weather events. Damaged tiles compromise the roof's watertightness and require replacement.
Missing Tiles: Similar to missing shingles, missing concrete tiles leave the roof vulnerable to water exposure.
Deteriorating Mortar: The mortar between concrete tiles can deteriorate over time, allowing water to seep through. Repointing the mortar joints might be sufficient, but a full roof replacement might be necessary if the damage is extensive.
Loss of Granules (for coated tiles): If your concrete tiles have a colored coating, losing granules exposes the underlying concrete and reduces the tiles' resistance to UV rays and water damage. Significant loss might necessitate a full replacement.
Remember, early detection and addressing minor issues can often extend the lifespan of your roof and avoid the need for a complete replacement. If you notice any of these signs, it's best to get an inspection and recommendations from one of our roofing professionals.
Changing Roofing Material
You may want to change the roof materials on your home completely. If you desire, we will remove your existing roof and replace it with a different product.
For example, many homeowners are now switching from cedar shingles or concrete tiles to asphalt shingles. This has many advantages.
Or we can use the same type of product as before.
Benefits of Roof Replacement
You get the safety and security of a brand new, fully warrantied roof installed by thoroughly trained and experienced technicians.
A roof replacement will also put an end to any functional issues you’ve experienced and provide long-lasting protection for your home. You’ll have proven protection against damage to the interior and structural integrity of your home and better energy efficiency.
Furthermore, your home will receive the aesthetic and curb appeal benefits of a very different new look. Enhanced curb appeal can translate into higher house and resale value, especially because fewer repairs will be needed.
Put them all together, and roof replacement will increase your home’s value and your peace of mind.
