How to know when it’s time to replace your roof

Do Ineed a new roof? This is a common question homeowners ask when they can’tdecide between roof repair and roof replacement. Your roof creates a barrier between your family and outside elements. Therefore, knowing when to replace itis vital in maintaining a safe and protected home for you and your loved ones.

Unfortunately, since roof replacement comes with a higher upfront cost, many homeowners opt to repair or wait. However, roof repair is only a short-term solution, and waiting too long can cost you more in the long run.

So, how can you tell when it’s time to replace your roof?

1. It’s old

A roof that is more than 15 years old may be in need of replacement. Most roofscome with a 15 to 20-year warranty, and with time they wear and tear, reducing their durability and effectiveness.

Furthermore, modern roofing materials such as AB Martin Metal roofing provide numerous benefits, including:

• Increased energy efficiency
• Enhanced durability
• Eco-friendly
• Longevity, up to 40 years

Getting a new roof ensures you enjoy these benefits, and it improves your roof’s curb appeal.

2. Leaks

This is one of the most visible signs that show you have an issue with your roof. Discoloration on your ceilings and cracks on your walls indicate you have moisture and water leaking into your home from your roof.

Over time, leaks can affect your home’s structural integrity and foundation.

Additionally, leaks can cause mold and mildew growth, resulting in rusty nails and rot. Mold growth also poses a health hazard to your loved ones, making roof replacement critical. With newer roofs, you get proper intake and ventilation,eliminating mold and mildew growth issues.

3. High energy bills

A sudden spike in your energy bills when your consumption remains the same could indicate you need to replace your roof. A good roof acts as an insulator against cold and warm air from invading your home. Hence, energy could be escaping through your roof or attic due to poor ventilation and insulation.

You can have an expert take a look at your roof to determine whether it’s thecause of your high heating and cooling bills. Replacing your roof is your bestbet at keeping your energy consumption low and increasing your home comfort.

4. Missing or broken shingles

As mentioned earlier, your roof wears and tears over time, resulting in loose, broken, or missing shingles. For example, for people living in storm-prone areas, losing shingles to winds is a sign you need to call a roofing contractorfor roof replacement.

Missing or broken shingles also make your roof susceptible to moisture damage and leaks. When it rains, water can seep into your attic through the spacesleft by missing and broken shingles. Also, curled, stained, wet, and bent shingles indicate you need a new roof.

5. Missing granules

Once your shingles start deteriorating, they break off into small sand-like pieces, and they fall on to your yard or landscape. You can also check yourgutters or downspout for any signs of granules.

Missing granules indicate your roof is drastically losing its weatherproofing abilities. Hence, your roof can’t withstand storms, high winds, or extreme UV light.

6. Damaged flashing

Flashing around your chimney, skylights, and vents keep water and moisture from seeping into your home. Hire a roofing contractor to inspect your roof’s flashing for cracks or breaks as they could lead to leaks. If an expert detects the problem early enough, you may not need to replace your roof.

However, if it’s too late, you will have to replace your entire roof as it may have extensive damage such as rot, sagging, and mold growth.

7. Bubbled, peeled, or stained paint

A leaky or damaged roof can result in deterioration of exterior paint aroundthe roofline. Although you can paint your roof’s shingles to maintain theirshine and appearance, it doesn’t fix the root cause of your problem.

Your roof may still leak and deteriorate further, affecting its ability toprotect you against weather elements. It’s financially wise to replace yourroof when the paint starts to bubble to save money in the long run.

Need roof replacement services?

Roof replacement is a long-term solution to all your roofing problems. Since it’s an expensive investment in your home, you’ll have to do it right the first time, and only a professional can achieve this.

Esh Builders are an experienced roofing company that provides quality roof replacement services. We use GAF shingles and AB Martin Metal Roofing. Contact us today to book your roof replacement appointment.

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