The roof is the most essential part of your home’s exterior. It is a structural support that keeps your house together and protects the rest of your home from water damage and harsh elements. However, your roof can eventually get old or wear out, even with regular preventative maintenance on your home.
While replacing an old or worn-out roof can be an unexpected expense or an inconvenient project, delaying it might result in more significant issues that will need more attention. Here are four warning signs it’s time to replace your roof.
1. Damaged or missing shingles
Your roofing shingles are the first line of defense, and they guard you against harsh elements and weather. However, as your roof ages, shingles may become loose, crack, or go missing altogether. Missing or damaged shingles can leave your roof prone to water damage and may also be a sign of a critical issue with your roof structure, which may require roof replacement.
It’s essential to schedule regular roof inspections to prevent missing or damaged shingles. A professional roofing company like Bold North Roofing can identify potential issues early and recommend necessary maintenance or repairs.
2. Granules in gutters or the ground
Asphalt shingles are embedded with granules that help protect them from UV rays. These granules are essential to an asphalt roof’s lifespan, and noticing them in your gutters or the ground is a sign it might be time for a roof replacement. Intense hail storms can also lead to granule loss, so if you notice loose granules after a huge storm, your best bet is to file a storm damage insurance claim.
3. Your roof has outlasted its lifespan
Depending on the roofing material, a roof’s lifespan is between 20 and 50 years. Asphalt shingles are considered the most popular of all roofs, and they tend to last anywhere between 15 and 30 years before requiring any major repair or replacement. Metal roofs are quite costly but need fewer repairs and can offer protection for 30 to 50 years.
Be sure to note the date of your roof installation so that you can estimate your roof’s lifespan. If your roof is getting old, it’s time to call a local roofing contractor to get a replacement.
4. Excessive moss or mold on your roof
Moss and mold can grow on a rooftop that doesn’t get sufficient sunlight, particularly in cool, moist weather. While these growths can be a cosmetic problem, they retain moisture on your roof surface and eventually cause damage to the granules on the apex of the shingles due to freezing. Moss may also affect the ability of your roof to drain, which may lead to water leaks.
Treating and removing moss from your roof is usually the best way to eliminate the issues without further repairs or investment. However, if you discover excessive moss around your top, it is best to hire a professional to determine the root cause and reasons for the growth.
Endnote
Spending money on a new roof is not fun, but waiting for too long can cause damage to your home or cost you more in the long run. Consider getting a new roof if you notice one of these common signs. Find a roofing contractor near you to schedule a roof inspection and help with your roof replacement project.
