Your roof is the first line of defense between you and the outside elements. So, it’s very important to take good care of it.
But most residential roofs last only but so long. And most people don’t have metal shingle roofs, which are known to last longer than asphalt.
Rather than waiting for your roof to begin leaking or crumbling away, you should replace the shingles in advance. But how do you know when it’s time to update your old roof? Here are some telltale signs to help you determine this.
You Have an Old Roof
If you were around when your home was first built or the roof was replaced, you should know the answer to this. As a rule of thumb, asphalt roofing tends to last between 20 and 25 years.
This will also be determined by whether you have a single layer of shingles and proper ventilation. In the event you have multiple layers of shingles and it’s more than 20 years old, then your old roof needs replacing.
Shingles Are Curling
Now, when you begin to see your shingles buckling and curling, it’s time to upgrade them. Just look at the slopes of the roof to see if you notice this. Or if there is a loss of granules. These are sure signs you’ve reached the life expectancy of your roof shingles.
Some of the Shingles Are Missing
Here is a sure sign that your old roof is beginning to fall apart. This is caused by the hot sun, mixed with wind and rain. Over time, your shingles will fly away during storms and windy days.
Shingle Granules Are Found in the Gutters
Check inside of your gutters to see if there are granules inside. At the end of your shingle’s life cycle, granules will begin to chip away and wash into the gutters.
Another sign is the granules are becoming darker in color in certain areas of the roof. This means the granules are becoming worn out.
Roof Boards Are Bouncy
If you’re not afraid of heights and have experience being on your rooftop, check this out for yourself. If the roof boards feel bouncy or spongy, then they’re growing weak from moisture.
Also, get into your attic space to see if there’s sunlight seeping through.
Cracks Are Showing on the Shingles
Again, your shingles can be very telling of whether your roof is in need of repair. Cracks in your shingles mean they’re growing old and need replacing. So, the more shingles you see cracking, the quicker you need to have work done.
Moss or Algae Is Covering Your Roof
Now, this isn’t so much a structural issue as it is a cosmetic one. However, you will have to worry about it spreading along your roof and onto the side of your home. And, if there are cracks, it could even seep into your attic.
What you don’t want to do is to try power washing the roof on your own. This will only risk granules falling off and causing damage to the shingles.
Is It Time to Replace Your Old Roof?
Then you need to hire an experienced contractor. At Over the Top Roofing and Construction, we have an expert team of roofers. We offer an assortment of services, which include roofing, construction, insulation, masonry and repairs for gutters and chimneys in Milwaukee and Menomonee Falls.
So, if you’re looking to have your roof replaced or inspected, then don’t hesitate to contact us. Free estimates are also available, so give us a call today!
