Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home or business because it protects the most valuable parts of either party – the people. While some might see a sagging roof and assume it can hang on a little longer, the professionals know that this is one of many signs that prove you need a new roof immediately. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the signs that your roof needs a full replacement.
Has It Been Over 20 Years Since Your Last Roof Replacement?
Unless there has been substantial obvious breakage to the roof shingles, such as from a tree falling on it, most roofing materials should offer at least 20 years of protection from the elements. The most popular residential roofing material, asphalt shingles, have the shortest life span at 20-30 years; however, the shingles provide a customizable approach for rough areas such as tight angles where roof slopes meet. Other roofing materials, such as galvanized steel panels, typically boast longer lifespans.
If you are not the original homeowner and don’t have a full history of the home’s renovations, how can you discover how old your roof is? Reach out to previous homeowners – if they aren’t sure when it was replaced but remember the company that did so, look them up. Alternatively, search for a building permit; or consult with an experienced home inspector or roofing contractor as a final resort for an estimate.
A Leaky Roof Is Just One Warning Sign of Structural Damage
While most cinematic representations of an old roof include properly positioned buckets to avoid indoor swimming pools, it is only one aspect of roof damage. Missing shingles, curling shingles, and damaged shingles are all indications that it’s time for, you guessed it, new shingles. Chimney flashing can loosen, becoming less watertight right where you need it most. These warning signs are typically due to wind or hail damage which can multiply severe issues quickly.
A sagging roof is an additional symptom that requires a new roof. Excessive weight can cause your roof boards to bend, compromising the entire roof and its ability to protect your home or business. By diligently looking out for roof leaks, hail damage, and other warning signals, homeowners can rest assured that their roofs will protect them for decades to come.
“Can’t I Just Purchase and Install the Roofing Materials Myself for a Quick Fix?”
It can be tempting to go with the latter when considering the costs of a full roof replacement compared to a $20 can of roof cement. However, covering the early signs with a DIY bandaid can lead to higher repair costs as further damage accumulates over time.
The best way to ensure a long-lasting roof is to work with an experienced and certified contractor who can properly install the materials. This will cost more initially, but you’ll save yourself from having to replace your roof sooner than necessary due to improperly installed materials or incorrect techniques.
Selling Soon? A New Roof Can Drastically Increase Your Home Value
If you’re putting your home on the market, you want to ensure it has the curb appeal it needs to make a strong impression. One of the most impactful ways to do this is by investing in a new roof – not only will it improve its external appearance, but having a roof in good condition is a huge aspect that potential buyers consider when purchasing a new home.
A replacement roof can be costly but may give your home an edge that attracts a higher sale price. Consider all aspects carefully and consult with professionals before making the investment – it could just put your home over the top!
Get A Professional’s Take
A quality contractor is your best asset when looking for an accurate estimate of the condition of your roof. He or she can identify roof slopes that are not meeting code requirements, look for roof penetrations that have not been properly installed, and even provide a lifespan report on existing layer materials. By utilizing the most accurate technology, such as aerial imagery, they can gain eyesight on the tallest and most hard-to-reach places to discover problem areas, such as ice dams built up against faulty gutters.
Even when inspections are free, it pays to have professionals come in and take care of these assessments. Their eye for detail can easily identify areas that need improvement to prevent future or further water damage, cracks, and other common problems.
Get An Expert on Your Roof Today
We understand that your roof is a big investment at Peak to Peak Roofing and Exteriors. That’s why we offer free inspections to help you make the best decision for your home. Whether you need guidance on minor repairs or are ready for a complete roof replacement, our experienced professionals will help you through the process. Contact us to learn how we can help protect everything and everyone under your roof.