Most homeowners can hardly tell when a roof needs replacement because they rarely check it after installation. Without regular preventative maintenance, the roof will eventually develop some issues. Failure to restore a damaged roof in good time results in costly repairs or a total roof replacement.
The following are warning signs that you might need a new roof.
1. Missing or Damaged Shingles
Shingles are susceptible to damage from exposure to external elements. If only a few shingles are missing and the damage is not widespread, a roofing expert can replace them. However, if a larger portion of your roof has missing or damaged shingles, that's a surefire sign that the roof is approaching its end of life and requires replacement.
2. Leaking Roof
Water coming through the roof may sometimes penetrate the drywall, rafters, and attic walls. The leaking water can cause severe structural damage to your home. So never ignore water stains on the attic's ceiling or walls. A roofing professional can help fix a leaky roof. However, if the damage in your attic is too extensive and the roof has large holes, you may need to install a new roof.
3. Sagging Roof
Generally, a roof should have a straight roofline. So, if you see any areas of your roof sagging, that should concern you. Sometimes moisture build-up might lead to an unidentified leak in your roof. If left unchecked, the excess moisture might compromise the structural integrity, and the roof might eventually collapse. Avoid these sagging issues by always clearing standing water from the roof, using superior roofing materials, and ensuring proper roofing maintenance.
4. Aging Roof
Roofing materials are built to last and to hold out against extreme weather conditions. However, elements and frequent weathering eventually take a toll on the roof. Typically, a roof can last for up to 30 years, depending on the materials used and how well you maintain it. So, when your roof hits start to age and repair costs are piling fast, consider reaching out to roofing services for an estimate. At this point, you can opt for a total roof replacement or install a new layer of shingles to replace the old ones.
Although overlaying existing shingles is cheaper, you could still tear off the old roof and install a new one, so you can easily catch issues beneath the shingles. If you detect any of these issues with your roof, resolve them right away before they get of hand by working with local roofing services.