Do You Need a New Roof? Signs to Watch For
A new roof can easily cost $20,000 or even more, but there may come a time when you have no choice but to install a new roof. Depending on the materials used, a roof can last for a decade or even longer. Those made from metal tend to last longer, and some metal roofs can last for several decades or more. Roofing contractors can install the roof for you and provide you with a dependable warranty. Before you consult with those roofers on a new roof deck system, look at some of the signs that you may need a new roof.
Constant and Frequent Leaks
While you can live with minor roof leaks, constant and frequent leaks indicate problems with your underlayment, which is the material that sits between the shingles or tiles and the roof itself. Sealing the roof with DIY products is only a temporary fix. If you have multiple leaks in your roof, you need a new one. You should also keep an eye out for cracks and brown spots on your ceiling and in the corners of every room in your house. Those brown spots may occur because of roof leaks, and as the leaks grow, cracks will form.
Missing Shingles
Another sign that you need a new roof is when you have discovered that there are a number of shingles missing. The wind can wreak havoc on a roof and pull off some shingles during a storm, but if you notice several shingles in your front yard or in your gutters, this indicates a more serious roof issue. If you are concerned, you may want to get on the roof yourself and look for problems like missing or damaged flashing around your chimney or shingle edges that don’t sit flush with the roof. If you don’t like what you see, it may be time to think about transitioning to a metal roof as soon as possible. By doing so, you won’t have to worry about any missing shingles, which could be a benefit to many homeowners.
Gutter Troubles
Usually made from metal or vinyl, the gutters on your house catch the rain and snow that rolls off your roof and keeps the water from puddling on the roof. When you clean those gutters, look for a powdery substance or small pellets. These materials are the granules used on the surface of your shingles. As those granules wear off, the shingles can no longer withstand common weather conditions and may decrease the life of your roof. If you notice any of these problems on your own roof, consult with roofing contractors about whether you need a new roof system.