5 Signs You Need A New Roof

The roof on your house can be damaged and the life shortened by many different things. Going from extreme heat to cold, water builds up in the valleys and eaves, high winds, tree branches, animals, and improper ventilation. The roof is your protection for the rest of the house. It protects everything from the ceiling to the floor.

A roof that has been letting water seep in for a period of time can damage ceiling panels, wallboard or paneling, and even the floor. Insulation will be ruined and mold will start setting in. This is why it’s important to have your roof inspected at least once a year.

Shingles have a warranty from 20 to 40 years, depending on the brand. Premium shingles are supposed to last longer, but improper venting and extreme weather conditions can shorten the lives of these shingles also. If your roof is getting close to its twentieth birthday, you should consider replacing them in the near future.

If your roof looks like its been to a salon for a perm, it’s definitely time to consider putting on a new roof. This is a sign of improper venting which should be taken care of when replacing new shingles. The shingles are getting too hot and are being baked, nails will loosen and the shingles will start curling. This is a sign you will be able to see from the ground without ever climbing on the roof.

 This can be detected by looking in your gutters and walking across your roof. The shingles will be slick due to granules rolling off. If there is a buildup of granules in your gutter system or even at the bottom of your downspouts, it’s time to consider replacing the shingles.

Most of the time, water leaks in from improperly sealed or damaged flashing around the chimney and vent pipes. These can usually be repaired with a good calking or roof tar. If the leak is coming through a valley or the edge of the roof, it’s possibly time for a new roof. Before installing the new shingles, the decking should be inspected for soft spots, warping, or other damage. If the decking is in bad shape due to water damage, this must be replaced before installing the shingles.

A roof that is sagging in the middle or has spots that are curved in like a bowl, it is a sure sign of decking damage, or even worse, damage to the structure of the roof itself. The shingles will need to be torn off so further inspection can be done. You don’t want to install a new roof if the rafters or trusses are broken or cracked. These will have to be replaced before new shingles are installed.

When having a new roof installed, it will need to be done right or else there will be premature failure. This is a big investment and you will want it to last for many years into the future. Water getting under the shingles will start rotting the decking underneath. The eaves and valleys are prone to leakage due to standing water. All pipes should be properly flashed.

The roof should have either turbines or a ridge vent installed so it will stay cooler. This will involve cutting areas out of your roof and should be done by a professional. Keeping your new roof free of obstructions, such as leaves and branches, will let water flow better and not remain pooled in the valleys. Taking car of your new roof will increase its life many years over one that is not maintained.