How Can You Tell When You Need a New Roof?

5 Tell Tale Signs you Need a New Roof

As a homeowner, you already know that preventative maintenance is required to help keep your home in tip top shape, but when should these repairs be made?  Often, the average homeowner does not know the warning signs to look for before something turns from a minor issue into a major disaster. This task is made even more difficult when dealing with your roof.  Knowing when you need a new roof is no different. Not only is it often neglected as it is hard to see from ground level, but to inspect it requires climbing a shaky ladder.  Many times small leaks remain undetected until the owner notices a stain on the ceiling.  Here is a list of what to look for before you need to start catching drips in a bucket during the next rain storm.

Shingle Shape

Are the shingles on your roof curling or peeling?  While shingles on your roof have a life expectancy of 20 to 25 years, areas exposed to direct sunlight for long periods will age faster.  If your shingles are curling and losing their protective granules this is a sign they are nearing the end of their projected use.  It may signify that your roof may not be properly vented retaining too much heat, or possibly has a leaking issue that is causing the roof decking to buckle.

Missing Shingles

If you are missing shingles, especially in the valley areas, then this is another reason that you may be in need of a new roof.  Valleys are an important aspect of the roofing dynamic, draining water and snow off your roof and into your gutters.  If this valley area is compromised then you may be in need of a new roof.

Moisture

When you are on your roof and you feel sponginess when you walk, then this may mean that your decking has become damaged by moisture entry.  Check inside of your attic to see if there is any visible daylight coming through, or if there is any wetness on the interior rafters or insulation. If any discoloration appears in your shingles, this may also be a sign your roof is in need of repair and should be inspected by a qualified roofer.  Remember, water runs down hill and will not always appear directly under the affected shingle, so close and professional inspection may be required to find where the leak has occurred.

 Shingle Granules

If your gutters are loaded up with granules from your shingles this means your roof may be nearing the end of its life cycle.  As shingles age, the tar that holds the protective granules to the surface gets dry and brittle and they easily wash off into the gutters.  Losing this layer allows water to penetrate the shingle and enter the house.

Flashing

Chimney flashing or other areas where exhaust pipes protrude is another area to be concerned with when it comes to sealing up your existing roof.  Often this is only done with roofing cement or tar, which will age and crack over time.  If this is the case, water will enter the dwelling where the chimney exits causing damage to the interior.  This should be replaced with a long term, water tight metal flashing.

The roof is the most important component of your house, without a sealed roofing system then all other areas will eventually take damage.  Knowing the signs to look for in the beginning will help you prevent major damage from occurring later. The experts at GDC Contracting INC in Westwood, NJ can provide you with a free estimate and walk your roof looking for signs that may not be visible from the ground. Call us today!