Top Ten Signs That It Is Time To Replace Your Roof
The roof forms a very critical part of the house, and at all times, it should be in perfect condition. Having an elegant roof fixed rightly above your head gives you a warm and cozy environment. If the roof is too old, there might be a future problem, even if it looks good from the outside. Below are the top ten signs that it is time to replace your roof.
- Curling Shingles
Shingles tend to curl when there is cupping or when they are clawing. The former happens when the edges of the roof have turned upwards. The latter occurs when the sides of the roof remain flat, whereas its middle parts begin to come up. These two signs indicate weathering and could lead to potential leaks. When this becomes a clear sign, you do not have much time remaining. Look at the degree of the curling shingles and plan to change your roof.
- Missing Shingles
If you notice some missing shingles on your roof, continue making repairs until a more significant issue presents itself. For instance, if the roof starts taking the appearance of a checkerboard, think of replacing the roof. Buy a new shingle that matches the texture and color of the old one and get a professional expert who will help to fix it.
- Cracked Shingles
When strong winds blow over the roof regularly, it develops cracked shingles. If only a few shingles have broken, they can be replaced. If the shingles have cracked randomly and not just in one specific area, this is a sign that it is time to think about a new roof.
- Presence of Granules in your Gutter
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The presence of granules in the gutters of your roof may not be a problem. The pellets are usually some loose and extra particles that help to keep the scorching rays of the sun off the roof. However, when too many granules begin to fall off, the shingles start to wilt, and the quality of the roof deteriorates quickly. When this happens, it is time to replace your roof. Another sign is the presence of granules in the gutter, which half the lifespan of the roof.
- Shingles Covered with Algae or Moss
The presence of moss or algae is just a cosmetic issue and should not bring a panic mode. They, however, spell trouble. Moss, mold, algae, and fungi show that moisture is trapped in the roof, which is never a pleasant sign. These bacterias adversely affect the aesthetic appeal of your roof and may not be removed by scraping or power washing. Scrapping will chip off the granules and render the roof useless. If you want to replace the roof, go for the algae-resistant tiles or find some zinc strips and install them at your roof peaks.
- Sunlight Through the Attic
If you start noticing the appearance of sun rays through your attic, this may not be a good sign. If sunlight can pass in, then cold air, rain, water stains, and snow can also enter. If any of these is present, there might be a leak. Leaks of great extent should never be assumed because they can result in more damage. These large leaks are a sign of structural damage, and the roof should be replaced as soon as possible rather than later.
- Sagging Roof
You are allowed to panic when you notice a sagging roof. It is a clear indication that there is a structural or foundational issue. If the problem is not handled with immediate effect, the roof may tumble down before you realize it. A sagging roof may also mean that there is a problem with the attic. You may not be in imminent danger, but it is communication enough that your roof can not protect you longer than it has.
h. The Temperature of the Attic is Different from the Outdoor Temperature
The outdoor temperature should be the same as your attic temperature. The consistency is essential as it shows that there is sufficient ventilation brought by good air circulation in and out of your roof. The ridge vent at the shelter is designed to remove the excess moisture and heat. This vent can significantly save your energy bills and inhibit the interior paint from peeling prematurely. Poor ventilation prevents the formation of an ice dam. Ice dams make the exterior paint to peel or blister since the attic is poorly ventilated. If you notice that the attic is colder, warmer, or has an inconsistent temperature with the outside environment, your roof might be having ice dams and should be replaced soon.
i. Presence of Ice Dams
The appearance of ice dams or huge icicles at the edge of your roof is a sign that you should replace your roof. Ice dams can be stopped by ensuring proper ventilation and insulation and installing a durable ice and water shield on the roof.
j. Unreasonably High Energy Bills
Inadequate insulation and ventilation in your roof and attic results in very high cooling and heating bills. Once you notice that your energy bills are incredibly high, it might be a sign that your roof is under-performing. You can rely on this sign to help your family cut unnecessary costs and install a roofing system that will serve you a lifetime.
Conclusion
Not all roofing repairs are do-it-yourself activities. If you feel that your roof has reached the end of its life span, be sure to contact a reliable roofing contractor. This licensed contractor will help discover all the underlying problems with your roof and help to repair them appropriately and within the shortest time possible. Do not wait for more signs to replace your roof; lest you end up bringing the entire ceiling down into your house.