A roof is the first line of defense against extreme elements and plays an essential role in keeping your household secure. But just like any other physical structure on your home, your roofing experiences wear, and over time, it will need to be replaced. While it can be challenging to determine the best time for roof replacement, some tell-tale signs should let you know that it’s long overdue. Here’s a blog post from a roofing company in Lake Oswego discussing various signs that your house might need a new roof.
The ceiling is sagging
A sagging ceiling is one of the most obvious signs that you need a new roof. If you notice this while inspecting the roof from inside, it’s probably because there is too much weight on top, and it can no longer support that extra load. This often happens if your roof has been neglected for an extended period to the point that the structural integrity is compromised.
Signs of obvious leakage
Some homeowners will notice water seeping into their homes or falling from ceiling cracks even when it hasn’t rained for weeks. However, this is not always the case, as some minimal leaks can escape your notice until they cause severe damage. Symptoms include stains on ceilings or walls, peeling paint, and warped floors. If you see any signs of water seepage like water stains, it’s best to call a professional roofer for inspection before the problem worsens.
Old roofing
Age is another indicator that your roof may be obsolete. While many homeowners may not realize it, the type of existing shingles or roof tiles on their roofs will naturally deteriorate over time. If you’ve been living in your home for more than 20 years, the chances are that your current rooftop has run its course. By this point, most types of old roofing material like asphalt shingles lose their protective quality and become less effective. Asphalt shingles have a life expectancy of about 20 years.
Missing or curling shingles
Missing shingles are another sign that your house needs a new roof because it could indicate the absence of shingle granules in the asphalt. Granules are small pieces of rock aggregate that protect both sides of an asphalt shingle through ultraviolet light reflection and heat absorption to keep them cool. Without these protective qualities, asphalt shingles can easily be damaged by sun and rain to cause premature deterioration.
Wildlife damage
Holes in your roof are also tell-tale signs that it needs to be replaced. Animals like squirrels and raccoons can take advantage of these holes as entryways into the home. These creatures often leave droppings on your rooftop, which can cause significant damage if they’re not removed immediately.
Moss, mildew, and mold growth
Moss, mold, and mildew are other signs of a rotting roof that calls for roof replacement. Moss can be harmful because they trap moisture within the roof shingles, which eventually leads to rot. Meanwhile, fungi like mold and mildew grow underneath the damaged shingles where it’s dark and moist. Without proper ventilation in the attic space, this moisture will eventually seep into the home and cause damage to its interior.
Storm damage
Storms are common in most parts of the world. Severe storms with high winds and heavy rains will cause significant damage to homes that don’t have strong enough roofs to withstand them. This may result in shingles being blown off the top, which will need roof repair. If the roof damage is too severe, you might want to consider complete roof replacement rather than conducting redundant, costly repairs.
Leaks in chimneys and skylights
A leaky roof can also cause damage to your home’s interior if they seep through its walls or ceilings. This often happens when there is a problem due to a missing shingle. Leaks in the chimney are hazardous because they can cause damage to your roof and other parts of your home.
Energy-inefficient roof
Roofing materials that do not have the proper insulation properties can also cause damage to your home’s interior. This usually causes heat or cold air inside the attic space, which is then transferred into rooms below it, causing an increase in energy bills and discomfort for homeowners. A possible solution to all these problems is replacing your roof with suitable insulation properties to prevent heat or cold air from seeping into rooms below.
Need a new roof?
Replacing your roof helps to enhance protection from the elements and enhances the value of your home significantly. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above on your roof, don’t hesitate to contact Her Roofing company in Lake Oswego!
FAQ
How much does a new roof cost?
The cost of a new roof will vary depending on the type and size and its material. We suggest calling your local roofing company. They will be able to provide you with a quote based on the size and time it would take to complete your project.
How long does it take to replace a roof?
Replacing a roof can take anywhere from one day to several weeks, depending on the size of your home and the type of roof material used. Her Roof company in Lake Oswego will be happy to advise how long it will take to replace your roof based on its design and other factors that may influence the project’s schedule.
How long will my roof last?
Roofs are designed to last for many years. Most asphalt shingle roofs have an expected lifespan of around 20-30 years if they’re replaced before the onset of major problems like rotting, moss growth, wind damage, or storm damage. Metal roofs can last even longer, with some lasting up to 50+ years, depending on their quality and design.