Buying a house is a monumental moment in a person’s life. When you purchase a home, you make a significant financial commitment and commit to putting down roots. You will no longer think about moving to a new apartment every year. Instead, you will be at your new house for several years, maybe even a lifetime.
However, more work goes into owning a house than you might think. Notably, most people do not think about what is over their heads, but it is essential. Unchecked, your roof could degrade in quality. As a result, you need to know the signs you need a new roof. Fortunately, we are here to educate you on the most common signs.
Water Damage in the Attic or Highest Floor
If there is water damage in your attic area or highest floor, that’s when you need to replace roof structures. Water damage at the upper end of your house is a sign your roof is no longer doing a great job of keeping the rain out of your home. Signs of water damage include moisture marks, brown, yellow, or gray stains, and paint peeling off the walls.
Furthermore, you should see if you have damp rafters or leaks. These are other signs your roof is damaged. However, it is crucial to note that not everyone can be a roofing expert. As a result, we recommend bringing in a roofing expert to do an inspection once a year. It will cost you some money upfront, but it could save you thousands of dollars in repairs.
Your Roof Is Sagging
If your roof is sagging, it is a sign you need a new roof. A roof sagging means moisture got trapped in the wood and rotted the boards under the roof. The result of this is the roof sagging away from its foundation. Replace a sagging roof immediately because it can sink further and cause more damage to your house’s structure.
A sagging roof is not as easy to spot as you might think. It is not as if it is sagging several feet, so you might not notice it immediately. You should check your roof for signs of trapped moisture. These can include rotting boards and sagging spots in the lowest sections of your roof.
Another thing you can do is see if you can see the sagging visually. Take several steps back from your house or even head to the other side of the street. Look at your home from several angles. The roof should appear straight at all angles. It should be easy to notice if your roof is sagging significantly.
Some Shingles Are Missing
Roofing shingles are in place to create a watertight, wind-resistant seal that protects the inside of your house from the elements. As a result, assessing the state of your shingles is a good way to see if your roof has damage beyond repair. You can replace a few damaged or missing shingles, but several missing shingles can be signs you need a new roof.
If you notice your shingles start to curl, it is a sign they are no longer properly attached to the roof. As a result, they have sustained damage and are no longer effective. Strong winds and storms can cause your shingles to curl. You can speak to a roofing consultant to see if they think they can repair it or if it is time for a new roof.
Another thing to do is check your gutters and downspouts for shingle granules. If you notice several granules, it is a sign that your shingles are degrading. Even if they are flat and no shingles are missing, lots of granules in your gutter is a sign you need a new roof, as your current roof is nearing the end of its life.
Your Heating and Cooling Bills Are Increasing
Bills are expensive, but they are a regular part of life. You should know how much you pay monthly for your insurance, internet, and utilities. While utility costs vary monthly, there should not be a drastic shift. As a result, if you notice a drastic increase in your energy costs, it is a sign you need a new roof.
A damaged roof will no longer insulate your roof as well as it did in peak condition. As a result, it takes more energy to heat or cool your house, and your energy bill will increase.
Moss and Mold Have Started To Grow
Moss, mold, and other sometimes dangerous fungi start to grow in moist areas. As a result, if you notice mold or moss growing in your attic near the roof, it is a sign of excess moisture. As we have mentioned, moisture in your attic is a sign your roof is no longer doing an adequate job of protecting your house from the elements.
If you notice mold, you can try to wipe it away with a stiff brush. If the mold is in its early stages, that should do the trick. However, if it has grown significantly, you may need to contact a professional for assistance.
Your Roof Has Outlived Its Lifespan
Roofs do not last forever. Unfortunately, everything will eventually degrade, so there will come a time when you need to replace your roof if you plan on living in your house your whole life. There are three common types of roofs available to the everyday consumer, such as:
- Asphalt shingles
- Metal
- Clay tiles
Roofs with asphalt shingles usually last 10 to 20 years. Metal roofs can last 30 to 50 years, depending on the elements in your area. Finally, types of roofs with clay tiles last around 40 years.
Replace Your Roof Today
Your roof is one of the most fundamental pieces of your house. Without it, you are not protected from the elements. As a result, it is crucial to know the signs you need a new roof.
You can stay safe and secure if you keep an eye out for the six signs outlined above. Contact the roofing experts at A to Z Construction today to speak with an expert.
