Considering roof replacement can be daunting. Replacing a roof is an expense that takes a chunk of your budget, but is extremely important. An aging roof that needs to be replaced can cause serious problems and lead to even more expensive repairs down the line. Knowing the signs that your roof needs to be replaced can help you determine when to take action. Let’s look at the signs that indicate that your roof needs to be replaced.
1) Your Roof is Over 12 Years Old
Most roofs need to be replaced every 15-30 years. Asphalt shingle roofs last an average of 12 to 15 years. Tile or metal roofs often have a longer lifespan. The weather conditions in your particular area play a big impact on the wear and tear of your roof, as well. For example, if you live in extreme heat, or in an area with extreme rain, you may need to replace your roof more frequently. As soon as your roof reaches the age that it needs to be replaced, you will need to start thinking about your next roof.
Keep in mind that if you previously made roof repairs over the top of your existing roof, you may definitely consider seeking a roof replacement as soon as possible. Sometimes, homeowners will use the overlay process as a quick fix to hide more significant roofing issues. If you have purchased a home, be sure to make note of when the roof was last replaced, as well as when the overlay process happened.
2) Missing Shingles or Curling Shingles are Visible
As a homeowner, it is easy to forget about your roof. Nonetheless, we recommend that homeowners check their roofs every spring and fall. Try to inspect the rooftops, gutters, drains, and downspouts. This is a great opportunity to check of damages signs, including how
extensive damage is on your roof. We also recommend checking your roof if you have weathered a serious storm, especially during hurricane seasons. Serious storms can cause extensive damage, and some of the damage can be hard to see from the ground.
Curling shingles and missing shingles are tell-tale signs that roof damage has happened. Rain, snow, and high winds can cause the components of shingles to wear down. Seeing granules or debris from your roof in your gutters can be a sign that your roof needs to be replaced. Any missing piece of your roof can make your home exposed to the elements.
3) You See Damaged or Broken Flashing on the Roof
Flashing is an important part of the roofing system. It helps keep moisture out of the roofing system joints. Depending on the age and quality of your roof, your flashing could be metal, tar, or roof cement. Missing, degraded, or damaged flashing can put your roof at risk for water damage.
One of the best ways to see if your roof needs to be replaced is to climb a ladder and take a better look from the outside. Be sure that you can easily manage a tall ladder and walk around your roof. Keep in mind that if you are concerned about your safety, it is best to hire a professional to look at your roof for you and evaluate your roof.
If you do get up on your roof, it is essential to look at the nails, the chimney, the roof shingles, the gutters, and the sealant. All of these elements are incredibly important. If one of these parts of your roof is damaged, you will need to make repairs as soon as possible. If any of these parts are damaged, broken, rusty, torn off, missing, or rotting, we recommend contacting a roofing expert.
4) Discolored Walls and Ceilings
Discolored walls and ceilings are a less obvious clue that your roof needs to be replaced. If you have noticed strange water stains on the exterior or interior walls of your home, or on your ceilings, these stains could indicate that your roof is leaking. One way to find out if your roof is leaking is to check the insulation in your attic. If your insulation is soggy or wet, you may have a problem.
Wet walls can cause mold and mildew, both of which can cause health problems for you and your family. Depending on the water damage, you could need to have walls replaced, which will add to your overall costs. As soon as you see any water spots on walls or ceilings, we recommend contacting an experienced roofing company. The faster you fix the problem, the less damage you will have overall.
5) A Significant Portion of Your Roof is Damaged
Replacing a roof is always more expensive than repairing a roof. In some cases, it needs to be done. Typically, when your roof is 40% damaged or more, it is a good idea to consider fully replacing your roof. Replacing a roof is serious. While repairs often start at a few hundred dollars, the cost to replace a roof usually costs between $5,000 and $15,000. The cost of a roof replacement depends on multiple factors, including the size of the roof, the materials used on the roof, and the cost of labor.
Even though replacing a roof is expensive, it is necessary. When Georgia homeowners put off roof replacements, their homes could become devalued. If you need to sell your home, it will be much less appealing with a damaged roof that needs to be replaced. Pest infestations can also happen when roofs have cracks and damage. Finally, homeowners can face leaks, increased energy bills, and pest infestations when their roofs are not properly fixed.
Contact the Alpharetta Roof Experts at Bullard Exteriors Today
At Bullard Exteriors, we have decades of experience when it comes to roofing. We will examine your roof and advise you as to whether you need to replace your roof, or whether a partial repair will be enough to keep your home safe. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation. Learn More at https://www.ownerly.com/home-improvement/types-of-metal-roofs/