Signs You Need a New Roof
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home’s exterior, providing the first line of protection against rain, snow, sleet, and everything in between. Considering its role in safeguarding your home from the elements, your roof sustains a lot of wear and tear over the years. You will need to replace your roof eventually; however, you must know what to look for to determine if it’s time. Here are the signs that you need a new roof.
Your Roof’s Age
If you know when your roof was installed, you can calculate its age compared to its estimated lifespan. An asphalt shingle roof can last between 15 and 30 years, depending on the quality of the roofing materials, the skill of the installation, and the general weather conditions it’s exposed to over the years. For instance, the more economical three-tab shingle may have a 15-20-year lifespan, while architectural shingles may last closer to 25-30 years.
If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, this is a sign that you should start considering a roof replacement for your home. Even if the roof looks like it’s in good condition, the asphalt shingles may have lost their resilience and durability and won’t provide reliable protection much longer.
Missing or Damaged Roof Shingles
If you’re unsure about the age of your roof or if its age falls somewhere in the middle of the estimated lifespan, there are other signs to look out for. Missing shingles are one of the most obvious signs. If this upper layer of your roofing system is missing or damaged in any area, it exposes the underlayment and subjects the rest of your home to further deterioration.
Also, damaged, cracked, torn, or curling shingles are signs that your roof needs replacing. You may even notice granules collecting in your gutters, indicating that your asphalt shingles have worn down.
Algae Growth and Discoloration
Algae growth is another sign that you may need to replace your roofing system. This typically looks like dark streak marks on your roof, as the algae grow on the shingles and cause streaks when it rains. This discoloration indicates the asphalt shingles are damaged and can no longer perform reliably.
Leaks, Water Damage & Other Storm Damage
A harsh storm may damage your roof, resulting in leaks, water infiltration, and other problems with your roofing system. These are all signs that it’s time to replace your roof. It’s essential to address these issues as soon as possible, as the damage will only continue to worsen.
How Often Should You Replace Your Roof?
How often you should have a roof replaced depends on various factors, but any of the signs above indicate that the time is now. Exterior Pros can provide a professional assessment of your roof’s condition and help you determine if it’s time for a replacement. We proudly offer roofing services for homeowners throughout the greater Milwaukee, WI, area, and we would be happy to do the same for you. Contact Exterior Pros today to get started with our roofing services.
