4 Signs You Need a New Roof This Year
Some home improvement projects, like installing a new kitchen or bathroom, can be exciting, while others feel like a chore. It’s hard to get excited about the prospect of a new roof, but as a homeowner, it’s one of the most important things you can do to keep your home healthy. If you haven’t had a roof replaced for a while, there are signs to indicate if it’s time for a new roof this new year.
Sign 1: Visible Damage or Wear
If you can see damage, that’s a clear sign that you need a new roof. Most visible damage comes from severe weather, usually after a windstorm, hail, or ice dams from freezing temperatures. The damage you’ll see is usually cracked or missing shingles, although ice dams can be more difficult to spot. While a few broken or damaged areas can usually be repaired, especially on a young roof, a significantly damaged roof will almost certainly need to be replaced. As soon as you see damage – or suspect you may have an ice dam – it’s time to call the professionals.
Moss or algae growth is another visible sign that you may need a new roof. Because these growths tend to keep the surface damp, excessive green patches can indicate that there may be water underneath the shingles. Washing and scraping these patches can cause more damage, so if your roof is older and starting to show more visible green patches, it’s time for a replacement.
Sign 2: Leaks or Signs of Water Damage
If you see signs of water damage, which can come in the form of marks running down your walls, splotches on your ceiling, or other staining, you need to see if your roof is to blame. If it is, it’s time to replace before the water damage worsens. If you suspect the watermarks are coming from a leaky roof, look in the attic for signs of damp rafters or beams. Water can cause significant damage to the structure of your home and can be very costly to fix, so taking care of the root of the problem is essential.
Sign 3: Rising Energy Bills
Head up to your attic. If you see light streaming in through cracks in the beams, that means that there is a gap that can impact your energy bills. When your roof needs replacement, you will have a much harder time keeping your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. As your heating and cooling systems fight with air leaks, your bills will start to creep upward. A tightly insulated roof will help keep your home insulated from the elements and can help ensure your energy use is efficient.
Sign 4: Age-Related Wear
Even if you have no visible damage or leaks, an old roof needs replacement before issues develop and the problem gets more expensive. If your roof is over twenty years old, you are likely beginning to see some signs of age-related wear. Most roofs have a lifespan of 20-30 years and should be replaced as soon as they start to indicate their age. A sagging roof signifies that the subroof is beginning to wear away. Loose granules and curling shingles are among the first signs that a roof is ready for replacement. If you find granules in your gutters during cleanout or by the drains after a rainstorm, it’s a concern if your roof is aging. While a new roof may shed some granules during the first few years, a settled roof shouldn’t, so losing granules means that your shingles are beginning to wear down. When shingles begin to warp and curl on the edges or in the middle, they can open your roof up to leaks, damaging ceilings, support beams, and walls. This may be difficult to see, so if your roof is over twenty years old, it can be a good idea to have the roof professionally inspected.
What Happens if I Put Off Roof Replacement?
If you have severe damage, you’ll know it and see that you need to take action. However, creeping signs that you need to replace the roof can be easier to ignore. If your roof has just hit its twentieth birthday and you are starting to notice a few indicators, you might be safe to keep an eye on things and address replacement again in a few months. But if you are seeing more significant signs, like water damage, warped shingles, or sagging spots, you can’t wait very long. If you put roof replacement off for too long, you’ll likely need to do more than just a simple replacement.
Can I Afford a New Roof?
There’s no secret that a new roof is an investment. However, it is often more affordable than most people think, especially with the financing options many contractors offer. If your roof was damaged due to a storm, you may even be able to claim insurance coverage. The best way to determine how to budget for your new roof is to contact a roofing professional. They can assess your situation, give an accurate estimate, and help you with financing options.
Your roof will usually tell you when it’s time for a replacement. If your roof shows signs that it’s at the end of its life, putting off the replacement isn’t a great decision. When you see that your roof is ready for replacement, contact a roofing contractor to see your next steps.
Trust All-Nu Construction for Your Roofing Needs
When it’s time for a roof replacement, don’t wait! Protect your home with experienced care from All-Nu Construction. Our team offers professional assessments, quality materials, and reliable service to make sure your roof keeps your home safe and efficient. Contact us today for a free estimate and discover how we can make your roofing project stress-free and affordable.