A properly installed and maintained roof can last up to 20 years or more. The lifespan of your roof depends on a lot of factors, so it isn't possible to pinpoint an exact time frame, but there are a few tell-tale signs that it's time to upgrade or repair. Here are five signs:
1. Shingles or Tiles Are Curled and Worn
Shingles curl when they are exposed to the elements, especially when they are made from asphalt. Asphalt is a type of tar used to coat roofing materials like shingles and tiles. Over time, asphalt can start to break down and oxidize, which causes it to flake off the roofing material in small pieces. This process causes the shingles or tiles on your roof to curl up at the edges and become more brittle over time.
When shingles curl up at the edges, it can lead to other problems with your roof over time. Wind can blow through the cracks in your curled shingles and cause them to wear down even more quickly than normal. The same thing happens if rainwater gets trapped under your curling shingles — it will cause them to wear down faster. If this repeatedly occurs over several years, you may need to replace your entire roof sooner than expected if you want your home's exterior appearance to remain intact for many years.
2. Missing Shingles
Missing shingles are the most obvious sign that your roof is in need of replacement. If you notice any missing shingles, it is best to have them replaced immediately. Missing shingles can allow water penetration into the attic and cause serious damage to your home.
Missing shingles are caused by several factors, including age, wear, and tear improper installation, or defective materials. When there are missing shingles on your roof, it is important to determine what caused them to prevent further damage.
When there are missing shingles on your roof, water may seep through the spaces between the remaining ones and into your attic. Missing shingles cause mold or mildew growth which can lead to serious health problems for those living in the home, as well as structural damage due to moisture buildup within the walls of your house. Additionally, if water seeps through these gaps, it could cause rotting of attic insulation which will result in additional energy loss within your home during the winter months, and that is why you need a company that specializes in Austin roof repair.
3. Significant Roof Leaks
A significant roof leak is one that you notice as soon as you walk into your home or business. There will be water spots on the ceiling and walls, and there may be a musty smell. If you have noticed these signs, you should immediately call a professional. There are several causes of significant roof leaks:
Faulty gutters – If your gutters are clogged with leaves, pine needles, or other debris, then they cannot do their job properly, and they may break away from the house altogether, causing significant leaks.
Poorly installed shingles – If your shingles were not installed properly, then they may start to fail prematurely, which could lead to significant roof leaks down the road.
4. Broken Flashing
Flashing is a type of metal or plastic used around the edges of roofs to prevent water from getting into the structure of the home. If flashing breaks or rusts through, water will leak into your attic and cause damage. This can cause major problems for homeowners because it is difficult to see the problem until the damage has already occurred.
The most common reason for broken flashing is improper installation. Not all contractors know how to properly install a new roof, and you might end up paying for a job that does not last as long as it should have been able to last. Broken flashing can also happen if there was an accident during installation and someone damaged it during installation or repair work afterward. It also happens when old flashing rusts through over time due to exposure to natural elements like rain and snow over time without proper maintenance by homeowners.
5. Shingle Granules in the gutters
This is a common sign of an impending roof replacement. When shingles start to wear out and break down, they start falling off into the gutters. This can be a sign that your roof needs to be replaced soon because if too many shingles fall off, they can clog up your drains and cause water damage inside your home.
When shingles get old and brittle, they become more prone to breaking apart and falling off when there's even just a little bit of wind or rain. Also, if you have high winds or hail in your area, this can also lead to more shingles getting washed away from your home and into your gutters as well.
Gathering information and knowing the status of your roof will make the process a lot easier when it comes time to go ahead and upgrade. By using the above tips, you will be able to get a good idea of how long or if it is time to get a new roof for your home.
Authors Bio.: Maggie Bloom
Maggie graduated from Utah Valley University with a degree in communication and writing. In her spare time, she loves to dance, read, and bake. She also enjoys traveling and scouting out new brunch locations.
