Having to replace a roof is something a lot of homeowners try to postpone until the last minute because of how expensive it can be. Besides foundation work, roofing is probably the most important expense a homeowner will have to face. But there are some times when patching won’t be enough and you’ll need to have the whole thing replaced. Here are some signs that your roof needs a replacement.
Start from the Inside Out
One of the first things you should do is climb to your attic and look for any signs of deterioration there. Bring a flashlight with you and start looking for leaks. If you spot any light beams coming through the roof, then this is a clear sign that there might be leaks and that your roof may need to be replaced.
Check Your House Records
Another thing you should do is follow the paper trail and try to find out the last time the roof was changed or re-shingled. Knowing how long ago work was done on the roof and which materials were used should give you a good idea of whether it’s time to replace it.
As a general rule, the average asphalt shingle roof will last up to 25 years, while one that was installed over existing shingles will have a 20 year lifespan. Ultimately, only a roofing contractor who’s familiar with your area’s climate and conditions will be able to tell you if your roof is on its way out. So, if you’re living somewhere like La Crosse WI, only a roofing La Crosse WI contractor will be able to help.
Your Shingles are Starting to Curl
If you’re noticing that your shingles are starting to curl, then this could be another indication that your roof may need to be replaced completely. Roof shingles can curl in two ways: clawing and cupping.
Clawing is when the center of the shingle lifts up, but the outer edges remain flat. Cupping is when the edges start curling up. In both cases, these are clear signs of wear, and should be addressed as soon as possible. Again, you may be able to postpone repairs for up to five years in some cases, but in most cases, repairs have to be done immediately to prevent massive leaks.
Shingles are Missing
If we’re looking at it from a purely functional standpoint, you could technically get away with just one or two shingles missing. However, finding shingles that match with the other ones can be close to impossible. That’s why a lot of people decide to get the whole thing replaced so they don’t end up with a roof that starts looking like a checkerboard. It’s all about how much you can afford to pay and what your priorities are.
Conclusion
The roof is one of the most important parts of your house, and roof issues have to be addressed swiftly to avoid complications. Make sure that you consult a reputable contractor and see what can be done if you notice any of these signs.
April 16, 2019