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When Should I Replace My Roof?

When Should I Replace My Roof?

Even though we enormously depend on them, we tend to overlook and ignore our roofs. With poor quality roofing, we get uncomfortable and dangerous living environments. For climates with frequent rainstorms and snow, quality and efficient roofing is a must.

This is why you should regularly inspect and clean your roof. You should also contact professional roofing companies now and then, to get expert opinions on the matter. Our roofs are very vulnerable, especially if they are poorly manufactured or installed.

If you suspect that your roof needs replacing, here are some of the signs which can help you out with that decision:

Old Age

Just like windows, doors and sump pumps, roofing materials have their own lifespans too. However, these age limits vary depending on the material, installation process and amount of maintenance. For instance, wood needs much more cleaning than metal. This is because wood is the main target of pesticides, rot, and mold.

If it’s isn’t shown the needed care, wooden shingles will last half less than expected. This is also the case for climates with frequent and dangerous storms. Your roof may look fine on the outside, but after a large storm passes, the roof surely suffers the consequences.

Ok, but what are these expected lifespans for roofing materials. When should I replace my asphalt roof and when my metal one? Well:

  • Asphalt roofing – Will last a max of 20 years, only applies for the fiberglass subcategory. Organic lasts even less.
  • Wooden roofing – There are many types of wood used for roofing. Depending on which one you choose, your roof can last from 25 to 60.
  • Metal – Very strong and aesthetically pleasing, metal can last to 100 years if properly maintained. However, it’s very vulnerable to temperature changes, resulting in dents.
  • Tile – Because it’s entirely made from earthly substances, tile has a very large lifespan. In some cases, this roofing has lasted up to 100+ years. However, you need to regularly clean it and remove moss and algae.

Issues with Shingles and Flashing

The most obvious sign that you need roof replacement is the issues with flashing and shingles. Before you notice some cracked or missing shingles up there, you will probably face a couple of roof leaks or rotten piles of wood in the attic. When it comes to shingle or flashing issues, a very vulnerable area is the chimney. The mortared joints, connecting the roof with the chimney can become overwhelmed with cracks and holes.

If you notice granules in the gutter or missing shingles up top, schedule a consultation with professional roofing and check the underlying cause and issue.

Nature’s Influence

Roofs can get decorated by moss, algae and bird nests, but this doesn’t mean they should be replaced, right? Wrong! If you need to frequently clean up your roofing and remove moss or algae, you probably have moisture problems. And when a home is facing such a situation, it either has improper piping or a broken roof. When the task of maintaining your roof becomes too hard, check your warranties and see whether you are reaching the age limit.

Attic Issues

Having a saggy roof or ceiling is obviously a sign for roof replacement. Luckily enough these “worst case scenarios” can be avoided, you just need to know where to look. Sometimes the signs aren’t that obvious but hidden in places where you would least expect. Such places are attic joists, windows, and walls. Here is what to look for:

  • Unpleasant smells and sounds in the attic
  • Rotten wood, especially in attic joists
  • Mold growth inside and on walls
  • High humidity levels
  • Window cracks and leaks
  • And roof leaks, of course

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