7 Signs that You Need a New Roof

A roof can take a lot of wear and last for 20 years or more. However, at some point, it’s going to reach the end of its life and need to be replaced. How do you know when it’s time for a new roof? Here are seven signs that you need a roof replacement.

An asphalt shingle is designed to remain flat and somewhat flexible throughout its lifetime. As the shingle ages, however, it can start to change shape. The corners will start to curl up. When both corners start to curl, the shingle looks like it’s buckling. 

If one or two shingles are doing this, it’s not usually an immediate issue. However, you should have a roofer out to assess the roof’s condition and make any repairs needed to prolong its life. When several shingles are curling or buckling, you may get a recommendation to replace the roof.

Shingles become brittle as they age. They will start to crack and break off as they deteriorate. A cracked or broken shingle can be replaced as needed. However, when repairs are becoming more common, it’s time to replace the entire roof.

Cracks and breaks can also occur after a major storm. Wind can pull shingles up and away from the roof surface. This flapping action can cause them to pull against the nails holding them down, causing cracks or breaks. If you see the damage after such a storm, have a roofer assess the damage. You may be able to get the repairs or replacement covered by your insurance company.

When you look at the top surface of a shingle, you will see a layer of granules embedded in the asphalt layer. These granules help deflect the damage caused by the elements. A shingle in good condition will have a good layer of granules securely stuck to the surface. 

As a shingle deteriorates, the granules will loosen from the surface and fall into the home’s gutters. If you see a substantial amount of granules in the gutter, call a roofer for an inspection. It’s a sign that you may need a new roof.

You can expect a well-constructed asphalt shingle roof to last 15 to 20 years. Some last longer than that. However, once a roof reaches 20, it’s lifespan is coming to an end in the next few years. It’s better to replace the roof before it fails. It allows you to avoid the cost and hassle of an emergency replacement.  

Get a roofer to give you an estimate for the work. Put money aside for the cost. Schedule it at a time that’s convenient for you and your family.

Get up into your attic on a sunny day. Look for any light coming through the roof surface. Anywhere light can penetrate is where water can get in. It may be around a vent or chimney where flashing has pulled away. It might be where you have a cracked or missing shingle. In any case, get a roofer out to make repairs quickly.

While you’re up in the attic, look on the underside of the roof. Check for signs of moisture or rot. Even if light isn’t coming in, water could be. 

The ridge of your roof should be a straight line. The flat parts of your roof should be straight and true. If any part of your roof is sagging, you need to have a professional assess the situation. 

A sagging ridge means the roof structure isn’t holding up. A sag in the surface of the roof usually means the roof deck is rotting. The roofer can give you a full assessment as well as recommendations for repair or replacement.

Probably the most obvious sign of a roof problem is water leaking through it. If you get puddles on your floor after a good rain storm, you need a roofer to check for leaks. They can come down through light fixture, wall cavities, or through the ceiling drywall. 

A single leak can usually be repaired for minimal cost. However, a major leak or multiple leaks can indicate your roof is starting to fail. If that’s the case, it needs to be replaced soon before your house gets further damage.

If you have any of these signs, you need to call a professional roofer to take a look. In some cases, a repair may be all that’s needed. However, the roofer may tell you that you need a full roof replacement.

Contact Crossover Roofing today for a free inspection to assess your roof or to give you a second opinion. We are the Winston Salem roofer residents trust to protect their homes.