It's important to check your roof regularly! Roofs are expensive and if you wait too long, the damage will only get worse. Here is a guide that can help you decide whether or not it's time for new shingles.
Checking your roof regularly is crucial because otherwise, you might not know there was ever an issue until it becomes too late. Many signs indicate when it may be time to replace your roof, including water damage, animals taking up residence in the attic or behind her gutters, and more. This article will show you how to determine if your home needs new shingles before the problem gets any worse.
Roof check-ups
How frequently you check it will depend on the climate and your roof’s age. If you have a newer roof, you might only need to check it every few years. If you have an older roof, you will likely need to check it more often. It also plays a role in whether or not you call for routine roof maintenance. It is important to remember that some damage might not be visible from the ground. That is why it is advisable to call a professional to take a look at your roof if you are unsure whether or not it needs to be replaced.
Inspecting your roof is a fairly easy job that most homeowners can do themselves. All you need are binoculars, a ladder, and a hose. Begin by inspecting the roof for any missing or damaged shingles. You can do this by using the binoculars to get a closer look or by going up on the ladder. If you do find any damage, make sure to replace the shingle as soon as possible because it can only lead to more damage in the future if left untreated.
image © Jean Louis Tosque
Water damage
One of the most common signs that your roof needs to be replaced is water damage. Pay close attention to any black streaks you see on your ceiling or walls. This usually indicates a problem with your shingles, which can cause leaks and other issues later on if not repaired immediately.
In addition to the black streaks, you will want to pay attention to whether or not there is moss growing on your roof. If there is, it's a sure sign that something isn’t right because moss only likes damp environments. Make sure you contact a professional if this is happening so they can inspect the rest of your roof for damage while they are up there.
Evidence of animals
It might seem harmless enough, but animals taking up residence on your roof can do a lot of damage. They can cause holes, which then leads to water damage, and they can also chew through wiring which can create a fire hazard. If you notice any evidence of animals, such as droppings, nests, or chewed-up insulation, it is time to call a professional to take a look at your roof and seal up any potential entrances.
For people that have previous experience with unwanted guests, critters like raccoons and squirrels can be a common problem. They will most likely enter your home through the attic, so it is important to check for any damage up there as well. Make sure that the insulation is all intact and there are no holes where the animals could enter. Also, if the animals have families nested, it is important to get them out as soon as possible to avoid any further damage.
Age of roof
The age of your roof is also a good indicator as to whether or not it needs to be replaced. Most roofs have a lifespan of about 20 years. If your roof is older than that, it is likely time for a replacement. However, this number can vary depending on the materials used, so if you are unsure, it is always best to consult a professional. If your roof is very old or in need of replacement, here are some important questions to ask yourself before taking action:
- How much does a new roof cost? This will help determine how much money you need to save. You want to make sure you can afford it before calling for professional assistance.
- Do I own my home? If not, call your landlord ASAP because they might require you to get a new roof before selling the place.
- Does the current state of my finances allow me to make this upgrade? You want to get a new roof but you don’t have the money? Talk to your bank about a loan or see if there are any grants or programs available to help fund the replacement.
- How long will it take for a new roof to be installed? This is important to know so you can plan for the time being without a roof. Most replacements take about 2-3 days, but this could vary depending on the size and complexity of your home.
- What kind of shingles should I get? There are many different types of shingles on the market these days. Make sure to consult a professional to see what would be the best fit for your home.
image © Harald Matern
These are all important questions that you should ask yourself before deciding to get a new roof. It is very expensive and you want to make sure that it is the right move for your home. However, in many cases, a replacement will be the best decision you can make for your home. With proper maintenance, a new roof could last another 20 years or more before needing to be replaced again. Even though the budget for a completely new roof can sometimes be draining, don’t wait too long because the longer you leave the problem your roof is facing untreated, the worse it will get. A new roof can significantly increase your home’s value while protecting what matters most to you.
