7 Signs you need a roof replacement

As your home’s principal protection from the sun, hail and rain, your roof is created to endure the elements in order to stay strong. But over time, even the best roof will eventually need repair, replacement or restoration. But how do you know when it’s time to look at a new or restored roof? We’re here to help. Here are seven signs that you need a roof restoration, replacement or repair.

#1. From inside: It’s often possible to spot signs of a deteriorating roof simply from looking inside your home. Some things to look out for include signs of light coming through the roof, trails that indicate leaking, or dark spots, which may indicate water damage. If you find just one sign that water is finding its way through your roof, there’s a good chance you just need a roof repair. However, if several areas are affected, in all likelihood you will need your roof restored or even replaced.

#2. From outside: Depending on your home, you may need to get on a ladder and take a closer look at your roof from the outside. To be safe, avoid walking on a steep roof and take care when walking. Things to look out for include:

• Worn out or loose materials around the chimney, pipes, vents as well other areas where the roof has been sealed or penetrated.
• Signs of wear around the roof valleys
• Signs of mould, rot or moisture
• Curled or worn shingles
• Shingle granules around your gutters (indicating a need for shingle replacement)
• Any sign of damage or wear around gutters and downpipes.

#3. Sags: Any sign of sagging in your roof, either visible from the inside or outside, is a clear indication of roof damage. If sagging is visible, you may need to have your entire roof replaced. It’s imperative that you have roof inspected professionally if any sign of sagging is visible.

#4. Flashing: Typically, flashing in older homes was made of cement or tar. But both of these materials are prone to breaking down over time. Inspect your roof for signs of cracks, breaks or worn out areas. Consider replacing all your flashing material with more modern metal flashing to avoid leaks as well as the need for premature roof replacement or restoration.

#5. Age: Like anything, roofs age over time. A rule of thumb is that any roof should last between 20 and 25 years. If your roof is only 10-15 years old and needs repairs frequently, it’s a good idea to look at having it restored. This will ultimately be less expensive than having to frequently pay for repairs. If you’ve reached the 20-year mark, consider replacing your roof entirely.

#6. Crumbling or cracked tiling: If you see any signs of cracked or broken tiles, they need to be replaced immediately. Tile roofing is very durable and rarely needs to be completed replaced, but if you overlook individual damaged tiles, water can seep in and the timber holding up your roof will rot, creating a much more expensive replacement or restoration.

#7. Corrosion: Corrosion is usually a sign that water is gathering around metal fittings and fasteners. If you see signs of corrosion around your gutters or anywhere else close to metal, it’s important to take a closer look. If you see paint flaking off around a corroded area, rotting timber, or other signs of damage, you need to replace the corroded fasteners and fittings before it becomes a much bigger job.

We recommend inspecting your roof at least twice a year, and it’s ideal to have it professionally inspected every two years, as well as after major storms. It’s important to make sure the expert inspecting your roof shows you the signs of damage and explains exactly why you need a roof repair, replacement or restoration. We also suggest you get quotes from several services in your area that are reputable and have been in operation for years. Any professional roofing contractor should be able to provide you with references from satisfied customers in order to ensure your money is well-spent.

If you need to discuss your roof replacement in more detail, contact us, and we can guide you through the process.