6 Signs That You Need a New Roof

Roofing replacement is one of the basic steps in maintaining a safe home. According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, homeowners or landlords should ensure their roofs are inspected at least twice every year.

A solid roof above your head is the ultimate barrier between your family and the elements. Your roof should be a top maintenance priority so that you enjoy a warm, cozy, and leak-free home year-round.

When is the best time to get your roof replaced? There are some telltale signs that you need a new roof and are due for a replacement. Here are the big six.

1. Visible Signs of Aging on Your Roof (Or: Your Roof’s 25th Birthday is Approaching)

Just like anything else, roofs have a typical lifespan. One of the signs that you need a new roof is when your roof physically looks old and worn.

An old or damaged roof with signs of aging can cause leaks and moisture buildup, leading to other problems like mold, mildew, and wood rot. Additionally, an outdated roof may not provide adequate protection against the elements: heavy rains, snowstorms, and even lightning strikes. Finally, an unsightly roof may decrease the value of your home.

For example, shingle roofs are built to last between 20 to 30 years. If you still have a 35 years roof, start thinking about putting a new one sooner than later.

2. It’s Time for a Roofing Replacement When it Starts Leaking

The most obvious warning sign that you need a new roof (and that it’s time to call a roofing contractor for a roofing replacement) is leaking.

Don’t wait too long before replacing your roof when you spot discoloration on your ceiling or any other sign of moisture. Likewise, it’s definitely home roof replacement time if you can spotlight rays or see inside your attic without switching on the light. Any delay in fixing a leaky roof can compromise the home’s structural integrity, making it a safety hazard.

According to the Insurance Information Institute, approximately one in every 50 homeowners file water damage or freezing claims yearly, accounting for 29% of all homeowners insurance claims.

3. The Neighbors Are Getting New Roofs

Homes built in your neighborhood are experiencing similar wear and tear from the same type of weather conditions. If professionals built all the homes around the same time as yours and your neighbors are replacing their roofs, it’s time for you to do the same. Even if you don’t see any obvious signs that you need a new roof right now, don’t put off replacing your roof until it leaks or shows other signs of damage. The damage will be much worse by then, and the repair costs will be much higher.

Roof replacement is expensive, but it is necessary to protect your home. You can save money in the long run by replacing your roof before it becomes too damaged.

4. Missing Shingles

If you notice a few missing shingles, you may choose to replace them. However, if your roof is old, matching the color with the existing shingles might be challenging. Missing shingles expose your roof to water and wind damage. Plus, a roof with missing shingles is simply unsightly, especially for those thinking of selling their homes.

That said, if you have an uncomfortable number of missing shingles, this is a sign that you need a new roof. You’ll need to call a roofing contractor to replace the entire roof by then.

5. Dark Streaks from Algae Damage

Pay close attention to your roof; dark stains may indicate algae’s presence. Gloeocapsa magma is a photosynthetic cyanobacterium made up of spores of algae. It is responsible for forming black/dark green stains on roofs. Sometimes, you may also spot moss growing on your shingles.

Fortunately, these can be washed away with 50-percent diluted bleach sprayed on the roof. However, you must call a professional roofing contractor if the problem is extensive enough to warrant a roof replacement. In the future, consider a metal roof because it is resistant to algae and moss.

6. There is Staining, Peeling, or Bubbling Paint

During the rainy season, leaky roofs tend to cause deterioration of exterior paints, especially along the roofline. This is also a sign that you need a new roof since it is no longer appropriately protecting your home from the elements. In addition, when the rainwater seeps into the walls, it stains the inside paint too. So again, we suggest hiring a professional roof contractor to fix the problem or replace the whole roof. Replacing your roof now will save you money in the long run by preventing further damage.

Other warning signs include:

• Loose Granules
• Cracked Shingles.
• Peeling And Curling Shingles
• You’re Finding Granules In The Gutter
• Flashing Damages

Work with The Best Professional Roofing Contractors for Quality Roof Replacement Services

Since a roof is your home’s last line of defense from elements, hiring a professional home remodeling contractor to ensure that regular roof inspections and maintenance are done right is very important. If the roofing contractor says it’s time for roof replacement, don’t neglect or delay adding a new roof to your home. Leaks and damages are health and safety hazards—and can cost you more when neglected than putting on a new roof at the right time.

At HelloProject, our roofing contractors will help you catch the problem quickly and safely replace your roof in the shortest time possible to prevent further damage. Contact us at 800.900.7875 to enjoy a world-class customer experience and top-of-the-line roof replacement services.