9 Signs You Need a New Roof

A home is only properly protected if the roof works well. Durable roof systems from superb residential roofing manufacturers will protect your home for decades, especially if they are installed correctly and maintained regularly. However, these roofs break down and need replacement over time.

Timely roof replacement will keep your home protected and save you money in the long run. To help you decide when it’s time to replace your roof, trusted roofing contractor STARR Roofing & Gutters lists nine signs you should look out for.

9 Signs You Need a New Roof

1. You Have an Old Roof

Asphalt shingles from trusted manufacturers usually have a 20- to 30-year lifespan. That said, if a roof is nearing the end of its expected lifespan, you should hire a roofer to look for hidden issues, even if it looks good and doesn’t seem to be giving you trouble. A professional inspection will allow you to plan your residential roofing replacement.

2. Curled Shingles

Extreme weather can take its toll on your roof, causing extensive damage at some point. Curling and lifting often happen due to high winds during storms. These usually mean your roof only has only one to five years left until it needs a complete roof replacement.

3. Granule Loss

Granules protect your asphalt shingles. Over time, asphalt shingles lose them due to storms and other extreme weather events. You can expect a 10- to 15-year-old roof to have significant granule loss, which indicates your roof only has a few years left until it needs replacement.

Losing granules is normal during the first few weeks after your roof is installed. These are just excess granules from manufacturing. But if you see excessive granule loss a short time after installation, hire a roofer to check for poor installation or product defects, which may be covered by your roofing warranties.

4. Cracking

Cracked asphalt shingles could mean your roof is reaching the end of its service life. Depending on the severity of the issue, you may need to replace your roof soon. For instance, a few cracked shingles in an isolated area are still repairable. Your roofer can simply replace the cracked shingles. However, if the cracks appear in different areas, you might need to tear off and replace your roof soon. Roofs with several random cracks likely have three to five years left.

5. Sunlight in the Attic

It might look unique and even fascinating, but sunlight poking through your attic means your roof is susceptible to water damage. These gaps allow rain, snow and cold air to enter your attic, leading to leaks and temperature fluctuations. Hire a metal roofing expert to inspect and learn the severity of damage to your attic.

Roofers can still fix holes in your roof. They can patch it up and restore your roof’s performance if the holes are small. Large holes or gaps, however, would likely require roof replacement.

6. Sagging Roof

Sagging is an indication of significant roof damage. It is a sign that your sheathing and rafters — the roof’s structural support system — have suffered serious damage or started to rot. Mold infestation can also be the culprit behind this. It typically occurs if your roof has a neglected leak, which also increases moisture levels in your attic. 

Roof inspections can reveal signs of wood rot and mold growth. They can improve your roof after experts remove a localized infestation, but you’ll likely need a full replacement too. 

7. Missing Asphalt Shingles

The number of missing asphalt shingles and the areas where this problem usually happens can give you a clue as to whether your roof needs a replacement soon. Your roofer can still replace a few missing asphalt shingles, but you might need a full replacement if a significant number of shingles are missing in random locations.

An old asphalt roof with missing shingles may also need replacement if your roofer can’t find the same shade to replace the missing shingles. You want to use the same shade because your roof would look unappealing with the color difference between the faded old shingles and the new ones.

8. Moss or Algae Infestation

Moss and algae are cosmetic issues that could make or break your property’s curb appeal. These wouldn’t cause any problems that will shorten your roof’s lifespan, even if you’re using a metal roofing system. However, consider replacing your roof if you intend to sell the property. Roof replacement can increase your home’s value and curb appeal. 

There are several options to prevent moss and algae infestation on your new roof. Modern roof systems have algae-resistant shingles that extend their lifespan and performance. You can also use zinc strips on roof peaks to prevent moss growth.

9. Roof Replacements in Your Neighborhood

If your and your neighbors’ houses were built around the same time, you should consider replacing your roof when you see your neighbors are already replacing theirs. To confirm your roof’s age, hire a reliable contractor such as STARR Roofing & Gutters. They can carry out professional roof inspections and provide an estimate of your roof’s remaining lifespan.

Roofing-Related Questions You Should Ask Before Buying a Home

If you’re buying a home with its old roof intact, ask the following questions to ensure you’re making a sound decision:

How Old Is the Roof?

The roof’s age can determine the issues you might find later. For instance, a 15-year-old shingle roof might only have one to five years left due to granule loss, severe cracking and missing asphalt shingles. 

Is the Roof’s Warranty Transferable?

If the roof is relatively new, ask the current homeowner if the roofing warranty is transferable. This will give you peace of mind knowing the roof is covered.

What Repairs Were Done to the Roof?

An old roof has likely been through numerous repairs over the years, which is a good indicator of its overall health. It also gives you an idea about the possible issues you can encounter after buying the property.

Request a Roofing Quote Today!

You deserve excellent roof inspection and replacement services. Let the experts at STARR Roofing & Gutters help you with your roofing project. Call us at (512) 736-6539 or fill out this contact form to get an estimate.