Usually, homeowners can tell when they have a roof problem. But it’s harder for folks to determine if they can get by with a repair, or if they need a full roof replacement.
Of course, you always want to do what’s best when it comes to protecting your family, your possessions, and the value of your home. But you also want to be sure you’re getting an accurate assessment of the situation when you have your roof inspected.
We recommend that you hire a company that specializes in roofing, only employs licensed professionals, and offers free estimates for their proposed work. Then take a good look at the scope of work details so you’re confident you’re getting your money’s worth. Obtain several estimates if necessary.
Read on to learn more information on how to decide if you need roof repair or replacement.
Signs You Need to Repair or Replace Your Roof
While some of these signs are going to be more obvious to the untrained eye than others, it’s a good idea to have your room regularly inspected for damage that you can’t see or know how to detect. A quality roofing company should include an inspection as part of their regular maintenance program.
But here are 9 factors to consider when it comes to roof issues that need to be addressed:
- Age of the Roof
- Missing, Broken, or Buckling Shingles
- Leaks in the House
- Roof Discoloration
- Signs of Sun Damage
- Rotting Wood
- Damaged Flashing
- Moisture in the Attic
- Sagging Roof
Learn more in this article and find out what Bob Villa has to say about signs you might need a new roof.
When to Repair a Roof
There’s good news and bad news. The bad news first: Any of the aforementioned nine signs mean you need to call a professional and have your roof inspected. Now, the good news: About half the list may only require a repair. Items 1, 2, 4, 5, and 7 might be an easy fix; it will depend on the extent of the damage and the size of the area affected. Each of these five factors can damage the roof’s shingles.
Since shingles cover the entire roofing system and are in some way connected to all nine factors on the warning list, let’s focus on shingles.
Heavy winds, hail, and debris can cause single damage, and if only a few are affected, you might be able to repair the area and just replace the missing or broken shingles. But if your shingles are buckling (also called “curling”), this is a sure sign you’ll need a new roof soon. Shingles can curl in two ways—on their edges, which is known as “cupping,” or in the middle, which is called “clawing.” Warped shingles of any kind can lead to leaks which creates property risk related to walls, ceilings, support beams, and joists.
Speaking of shingles, it’s helpful to know that “granules” are what we call the crushed stone and other materials that are on top of your roof’s shingles. Granules are supposed to be there, as they are meant to help protect your roof from excessive sun damage. However, you don’t want to see loose granules or find granules in your gutters.
Loose granules are part of a new roof installation and no cause for concern, since it should improve over time. But if your roof is at least 10 years old and you see loose granules, it’s time to call a professional for an inspection. You probably have a new roof in your future.
When to Replace a Roof
If your roof is 20 years old, you probably need a roof replacement soon. Depending on climate conditions where you live, damage to the roof, and the quality of materials and craftsmanship during initial installation, most roofs are designed to last between 15 and 25 years. It’s better to replace a roof than to wait for an old roof to completely give out; that way, you avoid costly and potentially dangerous situations. If you don’t know the age of your roof, you can try asking the previous owner or looking for the most recent building permit for the roof.
When you go into your attic and look up, do you see light anywhere? If rays of the sun can find their way inside, so can water. And critters. Also check the attic floor for water stains. If the stains are small in size, it’s worth checking your gutters first and perhaps just clearing, repairing, or replacing (or installing) the gutter system. If that doesn’t stop the issue, or the stains continue to grow, it’s likely time for a new roof. Leaks and water damage aren’t something to mess around with due to how much ruin they can cause.
Dark streaks on your roof are usually caused by excessive growth of algae, which indicates your roof no longer provides adequate protection against the elements. As long as there isn’t any water damage to your home, this discoloration isn’t an immediate reason to replace your roof; over time, however, algae and moss can damage your roof because it tends to keep the surface damp for long periods, increasing the risk of rot and leaks.
Again, there’s good news and bad news. The bad news first: Don’t try to wash or scrape algae/moss off your roof, as this can cause additional damage. You need a pro. Now, the good news: Many new shingles are resistant to moss and algae, so you shouldn’t have to worry about this particular issue again once you’ve installed a new roof.
A final note: If your roof is sagging, the structural integrity of your home has been compromised. For your protection and that of all you hold dear, you should hire a trusted roofing company to replace the entire roofing system as soon as possible.
Want to learn more about local roof repairs and replacement options?
Sentinel is here to help.
At Sentinel Roofing, customer service is our top priority. If you need residential or commercial roofing in central Florida—repairs, inspections, replacements, or installations for new construction—our team of roofing experts provides dependable, professional service every step of the way.
With our satellite software, we’re able to provide an accurate—and totally free—estimate before you hire us. We don’t even need to visit the site! With our easy-to-use tool, a free estimate is emailed directly to your inbox.
For answers to questions, more information, or to request an estimate or service call, contact us today.