10 Signs Your Roof Needs to Be Replaced
Replacing your roof at the right time can save you from costly home repairs. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to know when it’s time for a new roof. There are several signs that indicate that your roof needs to be replaced, and it’s important to be on the lookout for them.
At Bill Ragan Roofing, we’ve been helping homeowners understand the signs that their roof is giving them for over 30 years. We can provide you with the knowledge you need to determine when it’s time to replace your roof.
We’ll break down 10 signs to look out for that indicate your roof needs to be replaced, including:
1. You Have an Older Roof that’s Leaking
The signs of a deteriorating roof can be subtle, yet severe. Missing shingles, visible leaks, water damage, and missing flashing are all warning signs that your roof needs to be replaced. Storm damage can also play a role in the need for a roof replacement.
Your home warranty may cover some of the costs, but if you’re not sure, don’t panic. Have a local licensed contractor assess the roof and provide a paper trail of their findings.
Read More: Should I Replace My Roof if It’s Not Leaking
GAF Energy Solar Roofs, metal roofs, and flat roofs are all popular choices for new or replacement roofs. Many new shingle colors are available to choose from and can drastically improve the curb appeal of your home. If you’re looking for a way to improve your home’s energy efficiency, new roofs can help lower your cooling bills.
On average, roofs last between 10 to 20 years, but it depends on the material and the installation. If your roof is at least 10 years old, don’t forget to celebrate its 10-year anniversary with a roof inspection.
2. Cracked, Curling, or Missing Asphalt Shingles
When you have an older roof that’s leaking, it can be a sign that your shingles are deteriorating and in need of replacement. If you have asphalt shingles, you should check to see if they are cracked, curling, or missing altogether. If any of these conditions are present, it is a sure sign that your roof has reached the end of its lifespan and must be replaced.
Storm damage can also cause your shingles to be missing, but improper installation can be the cause as well. If you find yourself in this situation, it is important to remember that you may have a viable insurance claim if wind damage caused the missing shingles.
You should also be aware of the many other signs of shingles damage, such as water damage, metal roofs, flat roofs, and local roofs. For flat roofs, it is important to look for water damage or cracked seams that could indicate a need for a roof replacement.
3. Vegetation Growing on Your Roof
After examining the cracked, curling, or missing asphalt shingles, it’s time to look for signs of vegetation growing on your roof. Moss, lichen, and other types of vegetation can grow on aging roofing materials, indicating it’s time to start considering a replacement, particularly if the roof is 10 to 15 years old.
Algae can leave unsightly black streaks on a roof, but this doesn’t necessarily mean it needs to be replaced. A professional roof cleaning company can soft wash the roof to remove the algae, but if the roof is deteriorating due to shingles damage, storm damage, or water damage then a replacement may be in order.
Metal roofs can last up to 50 years, and many new shingles come with extended warranties for up to 50 years. Flat roof’s seams can last up to 15 years, but the average lifespan of most roofs is between 20 and 25 years. If your roof is older than that, don’t panic.
4. Finding Asphalt Shingle Granules on the Ground or Gutters
After vegetation has taken root on your roof, the next sign of an aging roof is the presence of asphalt shingle granules on the ground or in the gutters. These granules are crucial to the longevity of an asphalt roof, serving as protection from fire, UV rays, and providing the roof with color. Unfortunately, losing them is a huge sign that it’s time to replace your roof.
Storm damage, deterioration, and age all contribute to granule loss. If you find loose granules on the ground or in the gutters, don’t panic. A licensed contractor can provide an inspection to determine whether the roof is still viable or if replacement is in order.
Additionally, be aware of other signs like missing shingles, water damage, and old roofing materials. Modern paint colors, gutter guards, and carriage houses can also contribute to the appearance and longevity of your roof. If it’s been 10 years since your roof was installed, you may want to consider a home warranty to cover any possible repairs.
5. Noticing Rot or Discoloration on the Decking in Your Attic
After finding asphalt shingle granules on the ground or gutters, noticing rot or discoloration on the decking in your attic is another sign that your roof is deteriorating. When water gets underneath the roofing materials, it can seep through the wood decking and cause it to rot and discolor. This can lead to mildew and mold, as well as structural damage from the weight of your roof.
If your roof was damaged in a storm, it is important to inspect your decking for rot. You may also need to replace the roofing materials if they are too old or too damaged. If your shingles are more than 10 years old, it’s time to consider replacing them. Even if your shingles look fine, if they are that old, you may be missing out on the benefits of a newer shingle color that provides better energy efficiency.
If you think your roof has water damage, it is important to call a licensed contractor who can inspect the decking and roofing materials.
6. Other Houses in Your Neighborhood Are Getting New Roofs
If you notice that other houses in your neighborhood are getting new roofs, it may be a sign that you should consider replacing your roof as well. Aside from age, signs of deteriorating roofs, such as missing shingles, water damage, and discolored patches, can lead to the need for a new roof. Even if there is no storm damage or related posts, a roof that is more than 10 years old may need to be replaced.
It’s a good idea to have a licensed contractor take a look at your roof if it’s close to or past its 10 year anniversary. To ensure you get the best roof possible, you should also look for a contractor with a Master Elite certification.
Not only will this provide great curb appeal and natural light, but it will also increase the value of your home and help with cooling bills. When it comes to replacing your roof, you should also check for any home warranties that may cover it.
7. The Roof Is About to Turn 25
It’s been 10 years since your roof was installed and the time has come to start preparing for a new one. It could be due to storm damage, missing shingles, water damage, or it could just be time for a fresh look. Whatever the case, it’s important to get an inspection from a licensed contractor to ensure your roof is up to the task of protecting your home.
A roof replacement is a big job and you want to make sure it is done right. Make sure to look for signs of damage, such as water stains, sagging areas, and curling shingles, and if you find any, make sure to document them with pictures or video if possible. If the roof is more than two years old, get a home warranty to make sure the work is done to the highest standards.
Once you have a new roof installed, you’ll be able to enjoy great natural light and improved curb appeal. You can even take advantage of the extra space and create a rooftop garden or install modern paint colors for that extra touch.
8. Sagging Roof
As your roof reaches the 10-year anniversary of its installation, it’s important to pay attention to any potential signs of deterioration or damage that may have occurred over the past winter. One of the top signs to look out for is a sagging roof.
Sagging is caused by a structural issue below the shingles, such as severe water damage or a broken rafter, which can be difficult to detect without the help of a professional. A licensed contractor will need to remove the shingles and plywood sheathing to assess the damage and determine the best course of action.
If your roof is showing signs of sagging, it may require a new installation. In addition to replacing the shingles, you should also consider replacing the flashing, which helps protect your roof from storm damage. If your roof is relatively new, you may be able to get away with simply replacing the missing shingles. However, if it is more than two years old, it’s likely time for a complete overhaul.
9. Shingle Pieces in the Yard
In addition to sagging roofs, homeowners should also be aware of the presence of shingle pieces in the yard. Many times, these shingle pieces are small chunks that have come off of the roof due to storm damage, missing shingles, or water damage.
Flat roofs may also suffer from water damage, which may result in many shingle pieces in the yard. In other cases, the shingles may be a different color, indicating that the roof is more than 10 years old or nearing its 10-year anniversary. When this happens, it’s important to get a home warranty and contact a licensed roofing contractor for a full roof inspection.
In addition to checking for shingle pieces, the roofing contractor should also look for other signs of damage, such as visible leaks, missing flashing, and water damage. If a roof is more than 20 to 25 years old, it may be time for a new roof. Some homeowners may choose to install metal roofs or solar roofs, while others may opt to stay with traditional shingles.
10. Grit in the Gutter
After confirming that pieces of shingles are not scattered in the yard, it’s time to take a look at the gutters. Grit in the gutter is one of the top signs that your roof may be near the end of its life. Loose granules in the gutters may indicate that your shingles are losing their waterproofing ability, and are no longer able to protect your home from wind, rain and storm damage. Additionally, missing shingles can lead to water damage and rot on your flat roofs, as well as in your attic.
If you have noticed a new shingle color or many shingles in the gutters, your roof may be nearing its 10-year anniversary. In fact, most shingle manufacturers guarantee their products for 10 to 15 years, but some even offer warranties for up to 25 years. It’s important to check your home warranty to ensure you are covered for any roofing repairs or replacements.
Conclusion
Replacing a roof is a major investment, and it’s important to identify when it’s time to replace it. There are common indicators that can help you decide if it’s time to replace your roof. Look for signs such as cracked, curling or missing asphalt shingles, vegetation growth, and evidence of rot or discoloration on the decking in your attic.
If you notice your roof is about to turn 25 or your roof is sagging, these are also indicators that it’s time for a new roof. Knowing the warning signs and the average lifespan of a roof can help you make the best decision for your home. It is important to contact a licensed contractor for an assessment to determine the best approach.
