4 Signs It’s Time for a Roof Replacement

There are fun home improvement projects – and then there are ones you just have to grit your teeth and do. Replacing a roof falls into the latter category. And while it might not be super fun, it’s incredibly important to the integrity of your home.

Signs You Need a Roof Replacement

Outside of the foundation, the roof might be the most important element of your home. It protects the entire structure from the elements and ensures your house is able to serve its purpose. It’s also one of the most expensive parts of your home, which means you don’t want to replace it until necessary. But how do you know when it’s the right time?

Here are several signs it may be time for a roof replacement:

• Age

Age alone can be a good indicator under certain circumstances. Every roofing material has a finite lifespan and you can usually tell when to replace a roof based on the amount of time it’s been since the previous installation.

Slate, tile, and copper roofs generally last the longest – as much as 50 years or longer in some instances. Those with fiber cement shingles generally last around 25 years, while asphalt shingles have an expected life of right around 20 years.

• Condition of Shingles

Age alone can’t be the only factor. (It’s possible that one asphalt shingle roof will need to be replaced in 17 years while another might last 25 years.) You have to pay attention to the condition of the shingles.

Do the shingles still look fresh and new, or can you see faded areas, water stains, and a dull, patchy appearance? As you examine your roof, pay careful attention to common problem areas. This includes the slopes of the roof that receive the most direct sunlight. 

You should also visually inspect the valleys (where two or more roof slopes meet). Damage in the valleys is particularly dangerous and may make your roof susceptible to leaking.

Here’s another pro tip: Check your gutters and downspouts and look on the ground where the water is discharged. Do you notice any pieces of shingles or roof granules? (Roof granules look like coarse, black sand.) If there are lots of granules coming down your gutters and downspouts, this is a clear indication that your roof is wearing out. 

• Saggy and Droopy Spots

As you inspect your roof, look for any changes that indicate saggy or droopy spots in the roof. This is a likely indicator that moisture is penetrating your shingles and damaging the supporting roof deck. If safe to do so, you can get on the roof and try gently pressing on these areas. A spongy or bouncy feeling indicates a problem area. Call a roofing professional to check it out immediately. 

• Seeing Daylight from the Attic

You can actually tell a lot about your roof by viewing it from the underside. This requires you to climb up into your attic. As you (carefully) walk around in your attic, look up and search for any signs of moisture or water stains. Pay especially close attention to corners of the home and areas where walls meet the roof.

Don’t Delay – Act Now!

Your roof is more than a structural component. It provides a number of distinct benefits and serves several unique purposes. Failing to act swiftly could lead to problems like:

• Poor energy efficiency and high energy costs. It’ll cost more to heat your home in the winter and cool your home in the summer.
• Weather protection. An old roof is susceptible to water leaks and other damage from the elements. This could compromise the interior of your home and lead to major problems down the road.
• Curb appeal. An old roof really starts to look bad. It can hurt your home’s appearance and leave your house looking older than it really is.
• Health concerns. When a roof leak or other problem goes undetected, it may lead to mold or mildew growth in the attic, interior ceiling, and/or drywall. This may cause very serious health issues for you and your family.

If you notice some of the signs mentioned in this article, please don’t delay in getting your roof fixed. Waiting even a few extra weeks could mean exposing your house to unnecessary risks and excessive deterioration. The time to act is now!