Roofs shield us from all the risks and perils of weather. With time, it will need a replacement. If water has started dripping from your roof on your heads, you have waited too long to repair or replace your roof. Here are some subtle but sure signs that indicate that a roof replacement is required.
It’s About Time:
Generally, a roof is made to last at least 20 years. But this is not a hard and fast rule. A roof may or may not last this much. Or it could last much longer. It depends on the material, weather conditions, humidity, and salt levels in the air, and how it was fitted. But to be on the safer side, you may start looking for signs of decay (which we will point out below) once your roof hits the 15-year mark. If houses around you are wearing a new roof and they were as old as your house, then you need to consider roof replacement too.
First Stop, Attic:
For inspecting the quality of your roof, start from within. Get up and go inside your attic with a strong flashlight. Look for the following signs there:
Sunbeams: Before you turn on your flashlight, look for any sunlight penetrating through the cracks. It will be easy to identify, as the attic is dark, and you can see beams of light entering the attic through cracked shingles.
Seepage: After that, turn on your flashlight and see any signs of water leakage. The telltale sign of water leakage would be dark spots, stains, moisture, damp smell, and even water drops hanging on or dripping.
Drooping Area: Inspect the structure of the roof from inside and see if it is slacking or feels shapeless anywhere. If you see any such spot, poke it gently with your hand or a stick. If it feels soft, and wet it shows the roof has been damaged from the outside to let the water seep in.
Get on Your Roof:
After inspecting from the inside, it is time to go up on the roof. But it can be dangerous too. Do not attempt it, if you are not comfortable going up or have the proper equipment. Ask for professional help instead. If you can go up easily then look for the following signs on the exterior of the roof:
- Rotting shingles
- Curling shingles
- Cracked shingles
- Broken shingles
- Missing shingles
- Shingles that are missing granules
- Shingles with cupped tabs
- Decaying shingles
- Damaged flashing
- Damaged decking
- Unwelcome plant, moss, or algae growth. It could spell trouble in the long run.
- Inspect the roof valley; where two parts of the roof meet. It often develops cracks.
- Sagging or uneven ceiling surface
- Any other sign of rot or wear and tear that you could be of concern
Granules Build-Up in Your Gutters:
Poor or low-quality shingles lose their granules rapidly, especially after a rain or two. If you notice a lot of shingles granules gathered in your gutter, then it means your roof needs an inspection and might need a replacement. We hope by following these steps you will be able to tell if your roof needs a replacement.