It’s every homeowner’s worst nightmare: You look up one day to find that a yellow stain has spread across your ceiling. Even worse, it’s starting to drip — one of the worst signs you need a new roof.
Water damage can be an ongoing headache for any household, and roof leaks may be the first indicator that pops to mind when you consider potential roofing problems—but they’re far from the only threat to your roof.
Beyond the telltale leaks and water stains, here are four common signs you need a new roof.
1. Your Roof Is Getting Old
Depending on the roofing materials you’ve used, you may be wondering, “How long does a roof last, anyway?”
Metal and clay roofs can last anywhere from 30 to 100 years, but more popular asphalt versions last only 20 to 40 years. If the last roof was built before you bought the house, consider getting a new roof around the same time your neighbors get theirs: homes built in the same area around the same time will see the same weather conditions and wear.
2. There’s Structural Damage
Obviously, if you’ve seen major structural damage due to a weather event or a falling tree, you know it’s time to replace your roof. However, it’s just as important to pay attention to minor damage to your home.
Head up to your attic to check for any beams of light coming through the ceiling, in addition to the water stains that indicate a leaky roof. Don’t forget to also look for any visible sagging or other structural issues.
3. Your Shingles Are Wearing Down
Warping, twisted, or curling shingles can be a major sign that you need roof repairs. Because your shingles protect your roof as a whole, any damage can lead to further structural disrepair.
Go outside and look at your roof when the sun is hitting it. This can help you spot odd patterns or unusual shadows from bucking or curling shingles.
Even if you don’t glimpse visual deterioration from afar, you might find shingle granules in your gutters during your regular outdoor cleaning. These shingles are designed to reflect heat and keep your roof from baking in the hot sun, so finding many of them all at once is a bad sign.
4. Unsightly Cosmetic Issues
While moss and algae are often easy to take care of as a DIY job, too much of them can overwhelm the structure of your roof. Worse, these common nuisances pose a major threat to the structure of your home. Because they invite moisture, they can lead to water damage and rot if left unchecked.
Be Aware of These Signs You Need a New Roof
With proper upkeep, a roof can last for decades. Unfortunately, normal wear and tear can lead to cosmetic and structural issues that make it hard to justify pushing off a replacement.
When you notice these signs you need a new roof and you’re set on getting a replacement to protect your home, we’re here to help. We have over 20 years of experience serving residential clients in the Fresno area and beyond, so learn more about how we can help!
