A small repair may be enough to keep your roof in working condition for a few more years. However, that small repair may only be the beginning of your roof's deterioration. Knowing when it is time to replace a roof can be a challenge for many homeowners. So, is it time for a new roof on your home?
Look for Light Coming Through the Roof
Typically, the only light that comes into your attic should be through a gable window or skylight. If you see light coming from the roof deck, you have a problem. It may be coming from around the chimney or a vent. It could be because there are missing shingles or a rotted roof deck. In any case, get a professional out to look at the situation because you either need an immediate repair or an entirely new roof.
Consider the Age of the Roof
When was your current roof installed? If the roof is 20 years or older, you need to start budgeting for a new roof, even if your current one is in decent condition. Asphalt shingle roofs have an approximate lifespan of between 20 and 25 years. As the roof ages, shingles will start to deteriorate. The older it gets, the faster it will break down.
Assess the Condition of the Roofing Materials
From the ground, take a look at the condition of your roofing materials. For an asphalt roof, you want to look for shingles that are missing, broken, cracked, cupped or curling. All of those are signs of roof deterioration. If one or two of the shingles have problems, a repair may be enough. However, if multiple shingles are affected, and the damage is spread across the roof, you may need a replacement.
Check for Sagging
The deck and the ridgeline of your roof should be straight without any hints of sagging. If the roof deck is sagging, it is a sign the plywood below is rotting due to a leak. A sagging ridgeline is a sign the entire roof structure is compromised. You may have to go through an entirely new roof construction to repair that type of problem.
Examine the Underside of the Roof for Leaks
At least once a year, go into the attic of your home and look on the underside of the roof deck. You are looking for signs of water leaking. Many leaks start under the asphalt shingle layer, showing up only as water stains on the underside of the deck. Catching a leak early could prevent a major problem later. If you see signs of extensive leaking, however, you may find that you need an entirely new roof.
If your roof shows signs of trouble, it's time to bring in the professionals for an inspection. They can assess the condition and make recommendations on how to proceed. Call Roof Rescue to set an appointment. We have been the experts in roof repairs, roof replacement, and new roof construction in the Sachse area for the past 20 years.