A new roof is one of the most important investments you can make for your home or business. Not only does it protect structures from the elements, but a new roof can also increase your home’s value by 20-28% (yes, that’s right – by up to 28%!). One of the top signs that your house needs a new roof is that if it’s more than 20 years old – you may need to at least start saving for a new roof.
Now, some roofs can last up to 50-years. So, obviously, the year-life calculation will depend on the quality and durability of the material used and other factors such as storm-related weather.
How to Tell If Your Roof Needs to be Replaced
Between periods of howling winds of up to 50-70+ miles per hour, sweltering sun of 90-100+ degrees, and thick ice or hammering rain, it’s no wonder the brutal elements outside can wear our roofs down over time. The truth of the matter is: Roofs don’t last forever (Well, there are roofs that can last up to 100 years, but that is not the average homeowner).
To know for sure if your roof needs to be replaced, consulting with a roofing professional for an opinion is the best route to take. For the sake of education though, there are a few telltale signs you can look for:
Loose Roof Tiles or Missing Shingles
Water can enter your home through gaps in the roof or cave in when sagging, so when shingles or roof tiles go missing, it can be a serious problem. It’s also important to call a professional roofer right away. Missing roofing components of any kind can lead to leaks and other damage, so it’s best to get the problem fixed as soon as possible.
Once damage has caused a leak, it can cause all sorts of problems:
- Mold and/or Moss Growth (hidden or seen)
- Weakened ceiling/attic coverings
- Wet Insulation
- Dry Rot
- Weatherproofing Damage
Buying a House That Needs a New Roof
When it comes to buying a new (aged) house, the roofing structure can make or break the sale. However, some will buy go ahead and buy a home already knowing they will have to replace the roof. Other times, you may only want to ensure the roof will not have to be replaced or that there is no current damage from a “faulty” roof. Regardless, you will want to watch out for:
- Small leaks may not always be visible at first.
Hidden debris in gutters. - Unsealed shingles.
- Mold, mildew & fungal issues.
- The list goes on…
Damaged Flashing
Flashing is a thin, waterproof material that is used to seal the gaps between roofing materials and your home’s walls. It is usually made of metal but can also be made of plastic or rubber. Most commonly it’s made from the aluminum nowadays.
If a section of flashing becomes damaged, it can allow water to seep into your home, which can cause serious water damage. Watch out for:
- Rust & Corrosion
- Indoor Leaks
- Dents, Bends, Cracks & Other Disfigurements
- Missing Flashing
- Fascia Board Mold or Staining
- Small Holes
Wildlife Damage
Squirrels. Possums. Mice and rats. Bats. Birds. Wasps. Even raccoons. They are all typical culprits that can cause harm to our roofing system. If you see any of the following, you want to schedule a maintenance check with your professional roofing company:
- Droppings, urine, nesting, unsettled insulation, or ripped ducts in attic.
- Destroyed shingles and chewed-on wood underneath.
- Week louvers and poor screening in the chimney or attic.
- Broken pipes or decayed soffits.
Damaged Shingles
You may not immediately notice damaged shingles, but when you do, they will appear:
- Curled
- Cupped
- Clawed
- Broken
- Cracked
Gutter Grit or Trash
Gutter grit and trash causes major issues over time. #1 – The gutter can become clogged, which can lead to water damage to your home. #2 – The debris can also attract animals, which can cause even more damage.
If you think you might have a problem with your roof gutter, it’s important to call a professional to take a look. They can help you clear the debris and make sure everything is in good working order. Don’t let a simple problem turn into a big one – call MY PITTSBURGH ROOFING today and get you roof inspection completed.
Water Stains on Ceiling, Wall, or in Attic | Moss & Mold Growth
Water stains on your ceiling, wall, or in your attic can be caused by a variety of factors. But the most common cause is a leaking roof. If you have a water stain on your ceiling, wall, or in your attic, it’s important to have it inspected by a professional. If you wait too long, you may experience moss and/or mold growth.
Light Seen Through the Roof
If you can see light coming through your roof, it means there are cracks or holes in your roof letting in light. This is not a good situation and needs to be fixed as soon as possible.
Neighborhood Roof Replacements
Chances are that if your neighbors are replacing their roof, it’s time for you to consider a new roof.
Sagging Roofs
One of the deadliest signs of roof damage is sagging. If you notice sagging of any kind, you must evacuate due to the risk of collapse. The, call a roofing expert.
A sagging roof comes from:
- Water Leaks and Pooling
- Rafter or Truss Support Damage
- Loose Roof Sheathing
- Insect Damage
Old Age & Brittleness
Believe it or not, the highs and lows of our weather cycles cause shingles to crack and break – leading to brittleness.
That said, over time, brittle roofs can mean old age. Having your roof inspected regularly can prevent this. Rule of thumb is that if your roof is approaching around 15-years of age, you should have a professional inspect it. Regular maintenance is key!
Do you need a maintenance check to help you monitor the aging of your roof? Help extend the life of your roof by scheduling a roof inspection and avoid costly repairs or replacements down the road. MY PITTSBURGH ROOFING is equipped to provide you with comprehensive assessments and estimates.
