If you’re a homeowner, then you know that there are a few maintenance tasks that need to be done regularly to keep your home in good shape. One of those tasks is checking your roof for any damage or signs that it may need replacement.
Today, we’re going to take a look at some of the most common signs that your roof needs replacement. So, if you have any doubts about whether or not you should call a roofing contractor, keep reading!
Before we take a look at the signs that you need to look out for, let’s first take a look at why it’s so important that you keep an eye out.
Why it’s important to keep a close eye on your roof
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home. Not only does it protect you and your family from the elements, but it also helps to keep your home structurally sound.
A damaged or poorly maintained roof can lead to a number of problems, such as:
- Water damage: If your roof is leaking, it can cause water damage to your ceilings, walls, and floor. It can also lead to mold growth.
- Pest infestation: If there are cracks or holes in your roof, it can give pests easy access into your home.
- Structural damage: A damaged roof can put additional strain on the rest of your home’s structure, which could lead to problems like cracks in your walls or ceiling.
- Increased energy bills: If your roof isn’t properly insulated, it can allow heat or cold to enter your home, making your HVAC system work overtime to maintain a comfortable temperature. This can lead to higher energy bills.
As you can see, there are quite a few reasons why it’s important to keep a close eye on your roof and to call a Spokane roofing contractor at the first sign of trouble. With that being said, let’s take a look at some of the most common signs that your roof needs replacement.
Signs your roof needs replacement
Here are a few signs that you need to keep an eye out for when it comes to your roof.
Your roof is over 20 years old
It’s important that you consider how old your roof is – it’s one of the most common signs that your roof may need to be replaced.
Most residential roofs have a lifespan of 20-25 years. So, if your roof is getting up there in age, it’s definitely something that you’ll want to keep an eye on. If you, like most people, haven’t been in your home for 20 years or more, you won’t know off hand how old your roof actually is. This is where you’ll have to consider previous plans and even contact the owner before you if needed.
It’ll be worth it as if you are aware of the age of your roof you’ll be able to get ahead of any issues before they arise.
Water damage
One of the most common signs that your roof needs replacement is water damage. This can manifest itself in a few different ways, such as:
- Water stains on your ceiling: If you notice any water stains on your ceiling, it’s a good indicator that there’s a leak in your roof.
- Water damage to your walls: If you notice any water damage to your walls, it’s also a good indicator that there’s a problem with your roof.
- Mold growth: If you see mold or mildew growth, it’s another sign that there’s a leak in your roof that needs to be fixed.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important that you call a roofing contractor as soon as possible. The longer you wait to fix the problem, the worse it will become – and the more expensive it will be to repair.
Your shingles are cracked or missing
Shingles are the part of your roof that’s most exposed to the elements, so it’s not surprising that they’re often one of the first parts of your roof to show signs of wear and tear.
If you notice that your shingles are cracked or missing, it’s a good indicator that your roof needs to be replaced or at least repaired.
Your gutters are full of shingle granules
If you take a look at your gutters and notice that they’re full of shingle granules, it’s another sign that your roof needs to be replaced. Shingle granules are what give your shingles their color, and if they’re coming off in your gutters, it’s a sign that your shingles are starting to break down. This is not a good thing.
If you notice this problem, it’s important to call a roofer as soon as possible.
Your roof is sagging
If you notice that your roof is sagging, it’s a sign that there’s a serious problem. This is usually caused by water damage or poor construction, and it means that your roof is in danger of collapsing.
This is not something you want to ignore. If you do, you could be putting your life and the lives of your loved ones in danger.
Attic leaks
If you have an attic, it’s a good idea to check it regularly for signs of leaks. If you notice any water stains on the ceiling or walls, it’s a good indicator that there’s a problem with your roof.
If you find an attic leak, ring up your local roofing contractor. Attic leaks won’t go away by themselves, so make sure you tackle the issue quickly. It’ll only get worse
Rotting underlay
If you notice that the underlayment is rotting or breaking down, it’s important that you have this looked at. The underlayment is what provides protection from the elements, and if it’s not in good condition, your roof is at risk of serious damage.
If you notice this problem, it’s important to call a roofing contractor as soon as possible.
Damaged flashing
Damaged flashing is another sign that your roof needs to be replaced. The flashing is what helps to seal your roof and keep water out, and if it’s not in good condition, your roof is at risk of leaks. Leaks, as we mentioned above, lead to all sorts of problems, including mold, stains, and damage.
Mold or moss growth
While moss is great outdoors, you don’t want this in your home. If you are noticing moss or mold in your home, it’s definitely time to get the professionals in. Mold and moss need moisture to grow, so if you see them in your attic or elsewhere in your home, it means that there’s water getting in somewhere.
These are just some of the most common signs that your roof needs to be replaced. If you notice any of these problems, it’s important to call a roofing contractor as soon as possible.
Take care of your roof with Rocky West Exteriors
At Rocky West Exteriors, we’re here to help you take care of your roof. We offer a wide range of roof services in Spokane, Coeur d’Alene, and Sandpoint, including roof replacement, roof repair, and more.
Don’t wait until it’s too late to take care of your roof. Contact Rocky West Exteriors today at (509) 998-6522 or send us your details and we’ll get back to you in a flash.