Are You Near The End Of The Life Rating Of Your Shingle
Asphalt shingles are given a life rating in years to indicate how long they might last. Usually, this rating is anywhere from 25 years to 50 years. The life rating doesnt always mean that your roof will remain good for that long. It is, however, estimated that an average asphalt shingled roof will last between 20 and 30 years. If your roof has been installed for more than 20 years, you should consider having your roof inspected to see if it is time to have it replaced.
Common Flat Roof Problems Leading To Replacement
If you see the following indications, be sure that minor roof repair wont be enough.
One of the biggest issues flat roofs face is pooling water, which can result in irregular stress that causes cracks. Over time, the roof may shift a bit, meaning it may not be as level as it was when it was installed. This will most likely result in water pooling in dips and divots. While flat roofs are manufactured to stand up to water, these pools need to be drained as soon as they form to ensure water doesnt seep into the roofs layers. When left unchecked, the pools will harm the roofs surface and shorten its lifespan.
Bubbling and blistering are defects that typically result from adhesion failure. The visible bubbles are generally filled with water or air. This could be a result of poor workmanship, bad insulation or insufficient ventilation. When caught early, the problem can be dealt with left untreated, the blisters will get too large to be fixed. They can later pop and leave holes in your roofing that make your property vulnerable to interior damage. The cause behind this could be that the roof had excess moisture when it was installed.
Are The Edges Of Your Shingles Curling Back
In Utah, our roofs are exposed to extreme temperature swings. We have extremely cold winters and extremely hot summers. These temperature extremes will weaken the integrity of the shingles on your roof and may cause the edges to curl back. If you notice any curling or lifting of the shingles on your roof, it is definitely time to get your roof replaced.
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What To Expect If You Replace Your Roof Before You Sell:
If your home demands a full roofing overhaul to sell, then prepare to fork up a significant sum to cover the project. HomeAdvisor reports that homeowners spend on average between $5,346 $10,787 on roof replacement, though Jennifer and Andrew Oldham have witnessed clients spend as much as $60,000.
The good news is, a roof replacement returns a fair amount of investment: 61.2% to 65.9% by Remodeling Magazines estimate. Industry research leaders the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and the National Association of Realtors echo this calculation in their joint 2019 Remodeling Impact Report. New roofing ranks the number one project for appeal to buyers and likely added value to home at resale. The report estimates that a new roof brings an average $8,000 return, with 33% of agents stating that a new roof has helped them close a sale.
Your Asphalt Roof Is About 20 Years Old
The life of a roof is how many years you get out of it. For a standard 3-tab asphalt shingle roof, thats 25-years.
As long as your roof has been properly ventilated and installed you should get pretty close to that 25 years of roof life. So obviously you want to replace your roof before it starts leaking or fails completely.
A reputable roofing contractor will recommend that you replace your roof somewhere around 80-85% of the manufacturers life of the roof. For example, you should consider replacing a 25-year roof around the 20-year mark.
Dont wait until its too late, get ahead of any potential problems and replace your roof before the end of its life.
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The Shingles Are Covered With Moss Or Algae
Okay, this is actually no reason to panic. “It’s just a cosmetic issue,” says McGavic. People may choose to replace the roof just because they don’t like the aesthetic . Whatever you do, don’t take matters into your own hands by power washing or scraping away at the green stuff. “That’s a good way to chip off all the granules, which again, essentially renders your shingles useless.”
How much time you’ve got left: As long as you can stand the look. Consider a wash that’s one part bleach and one part water to remove algae or moss. Or look into zinc strips that can be installed at roof peaks and will eventually eliminate the problem. If you do decide to replace your roof, consider tiles that are algae-resistant, like GAF Timberline roofs, a Good Housekeeping Seal holder.
Moss Mold Or Fungi Have Taken Over
Moss, mold and fungi indicate trapped moisture, which can ruin a roof. To do away with moss that collects in shaded corners of your roof, use a stiff brush but be careful to address any underlying problems. If obvious moss remains after brushing, contact a professional to get the roof properly inspected.
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Exterior Signs That Its Time To Replace Your Roof
Before we get into the signs you can see on the outside of your roof, we want to issue a word of caution. Please dont walk around on your roof if you dont need to. Weve said this before, but its worth repeating. Roofing is a dangerous job, even for professionals.
All you need to do to inspect your roof is to climb up on a ladder and take a peek. You should be able to spot any of these problems from there.
Your Asphalt Roof Fails Prematurely
Your roofing materials should live as long as the manufacturer specifies. However, there are cases when your roof fails prematurely and leads to a roof replacement well before you should need one.
Two of the common causes of premature roof failure are improper roof installation and inadequate attic ventilation.
When your roof wasnt installed using correct roofing techniques youre going to find shingles in your yard or even full sections sliding off your roof. If your attic wasnt properly ventilated then the damage from the trapped heat and cold will drastically shorten your roofs life.
Be aware, when your roof isnt properly ventilated or properly installed the manufacturers warranty on your roofing materials will be voided. This leaves you with only your contractors workmanship warranty to fall back on to replace your prematurely failed roof.
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Gaps In Chimney Flashing
The flashing around the vents, skylights, and chimney on your roof help fortify these openings against leaks. Thatâs why itâs extremely important to make sure there are no cracks or breaks in the flashing, especially if itâs made of cement or tar, which erodes over time. Metal flashing typically has a longer life.
Subtle Signs Of Roof Damage
Depending on the way your home was built, you may not be able to easily see every angle of your roof easily. This can be a problem if you dont make it a habit to normally check your roof for shingles that may be:
- Missing
- Warped
- Worn out
If you do notice any of these damages, you should contact our team right away so that we can perform a thorough inspection of your roof. In most cases, we do not advise others to climb onto the roof and check for damages, because this can cause more damage in the process and it could be unsafe, especially if there are issues present. If you are unable to perform a regular or reliable visual check on your roof, it is always a good idea to have an annual checkup to ensure your roof is performing its duties as it should.
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How To Know When It’s Time To Replace Your Roof
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An aging roof will begin to show telltale signs that it might be time to consider replacement. Many homeowners think that the lack of any active or visible leaks means their roof is good enough. Not so. The optimal time to replace a roof is before it begins leaking. When your roof begins to show the following signs of major wear, it is time to start shopping for a new roof. This way, you have adequate time to carefully consider your options and properly qualify a roofing contractor. Looking for the signs that a roof has worn beyond repair can save you money, extensive emergency repairs, and homeowner headaches down the road.
Look For Shingle Issues
Inspecting your roofs shingles is another way to determine whether or not your roof requires additional attention or a replacement entirely.
When inspecting the exterior shingles of your homes roof, be sure to look for any cracks, mishappen shingles, or shingles that have curled or bent upwards.
Shingles that are curled, cracked, or misshapen may require a further inspection to determine whether or not they can be replaced individually or if you are better off investing in an entirely new roof.
Finding shingle granules on your roof or piling up in your gutter can also be a sign that it is time for a complete and thorough roof replacement. Excessive shingle granule loss is a surefire sign that the roofs condition is not where it needs to be to provide maximum protection and insulation for your home.
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Sign #: Falling Mortar
Mortars are mainly used for bedding roof junctions such as ridges and verges . You should check your mortars frequently, as these materials have a limited lifespan, and you should also look out for early signs of degeneration caused by extreme changes in the weather. These ridges and verges are highly susceptible to cracking and eventually may be dislodged and fall off in occurrences of strong winds.
Falling mortars may be a problem for older roofs where mortar was used as bedding for the tiles. If this starts to break down , then it may be an indication that the roof is reaching the end of its life. Keep in mind that mortar is best replaced rather than repaired.
Sign #: Debris In Gutters
Check your gutters for pieces of asphalt shingles or sand-like granules that are used as a top coat this material protects your tiles, and if granules are falling from your tiles and into your gutters, then it could be a sign that your shingles are deteriorating. Of course, a few loose granules are normal, but if you notice an increase in residue, this may be a warning sign.
The protective coating of a roof tends to slough off due to atmospheric changes, constant exposure to weather, long-term usage and moisture, which causes the asphalt to weaken. Therefore, you should aim to repair tiles and replace their protective coating on a regular basis.
You should also check for debris falling from trees nesting on your roof, as this can cause the coating of your roof to weaken. Therefore, regular garden maintenance is important.
Make sure that you inspect your roof regularly in broad daylight, and if you notice deformed, distorted, curled areas, or tiles bald from their protective coating, then you may need to make some roof repairs. And, if you live in North Yorkshire, give us a call. Wed be happy to have our Harrogate roofers take a look at your property and recommend repairs.
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Sign #1: Rotting Underlay
Roofs rely on the underlay and tiles working together to keep water out. If there is a single tear in the underlay, then you may be able to patch it, but since there is already an existing tear somewhere from the roof, it can be an area where water may seep through.
If you look at the outside of your roof, you might not be able to notice a roofing problem. A tiny leak in the roof can go undetected, and thats what makes it riskier. These leaks tend to grow in size, and youll only notice when water has already seeped through the underlay.
If the underlay is already worn out and rotting, then it will need a replacement. Rotted underlay can weaken the foundation of your roof and cause it to collapse. In this case, a new roof will be required, as its impossible to replace only the underlay of a roof.
Look For These Common Signs That Its Time For A Replacement
If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan and may have seen a number of extreme weather events in its time, look for the following symptoms that it may be due for a replacement:
- Cracking and splintering
- Leaking, rot, or water damage
- Missing granules
- Ventilation issues
- Roof sagging
Again, a roofing professional may be able to give you better insight as to what constitutes as needing a roof replacement. Your roof depending on its status may very well only need some simple repairs before it is shipshape again.
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Your Roof Has Started To Sag
In all the other cases, weve said that you have some time to plan the replacement. Once your roof starts sagging, however, you cant waste any time. This means that the roof is beginning to lose structural integrity and it could well come crashing down.
If youre concerned about the state of your roof, why not give Worthmann Roofing a call. Well come in and do a free inspection so that you know exactly what the situation is.
Dont hesitate to contact us if you need tree removal in Gainesville or surrounding areas.
When To Make Repairs To Your Existing Roof System
Over time, your roof is going to sustain damageits just a fact. However, the amount of damage will determine whether you simply need to make a few repairs or to instead replace the whole thing. If the damage done to your roof is minor, youll be better off having a roof repair team come out to your property instead of shelling out a bunch of money on a complete replacement.
Speaking of which, its no secret that a roof replacement will be the much more expensive option. If your budget is tight, it may be better to hold off on a new installation and patch up your existing roof system for the time being. Plus, repairs are often much quicker than the replacement process.
Another sign that you should not replace your roof system yet is if you recently replaced it. A new roof is a big investment, so you should do what you can to see that investment through. On the other hand, you may have a historic or classic roof and want to maintain its architectural integrity. Repairs can help you there, too!
To summarize, heres when you should repair your roof:
- There are isolated leaks or damage.
- Youve recently replaced your roof.
- You want to maintain the roofs integrity.
- Youre on a budget.
- Youre on a tight schedule.
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When To Repair Or Replace Your Roof
Our homes are probably the largest investment that well make in our lives, and its important to keep them properly maintained. Roof repair and replacement is an important part of that maintenance, but it can be difficult to know exactly when your roof needs attention. Team Roofing is here to help you keep your roof in top shape! Lets take a look at a few of the signs that it may be time to replace or fix your roof.
Repair or Replace, and When?
Fortunately, not all roof issues require replacement. If the damage is in a limited area, our pros can simply replace the affected materials and have your roof as good as new. The passage of time is the most common reason we advise roof replacement. Whatever your exact situation might be, we are here to take care of it!
- If you can notice the damage, its time for new materials. Shingles can buckle, curl, and come loose. If you see any part of your roof with damaged materials, give us a call so we can fix it before it gets worse.
- Dark streaks or algae growth can be indicators of water and moisture seepage. Once water infiltrates your roof, it may be too late for a repair. This situation should be fixed immediately because it can lead to mold and mildew growing in your home.
- Depending on the materials and manufacturers guidelines, it may be time for a new roof after 20 years. If youre not sure if your roofs time is up, we can conduct a multi-point inspection and determine the best way forward.
When To Replace Your Roof: How To Tell If Its Time
Last time you climbed up a ladder and cleaned out your gutters, you got a magnified view of your roof. A few turned up shingles, moss, some rust action are these blemishes normal, or are they signs that you need a new roof?
When you start noticing your roofs age, bring in the experts to determine if its time for a replacement. Roof damage can lead to leaks and cause significant structural damage. Plus, beyond protecting your home, your roof plays a key role in curb appeal when its time to sell.
We want our houses to look as good as possible from the curb and from the photographs. And now that we use a lot of aerial shots and drone shots, the roof is much more visible. So its just that much more important that the roof looks good, shares top real estate agent Andrew Oldham, who, along with his partner Jennifer Oldham, sells 70% more single-family homes in San Jose than the average agent.
Dont let a roof in disrepair bring down your homes value. Follow these six steps to determine if you need to replace your roof.
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