When to Replace Roofing: 5 Signs to Look For
Is your roof starting to show signs of age? Are your neighbors replacing their roofs after hail or other extreme weather? If you’re wondering when to replace roofing or when to repair it, it’s time to talk to a roofing professional.
Before you commit to a contractor, you should always make sure that they’re certified by the Better Business Bureau. We’ll walk you through five signs that you need a new roof and help you get started with a reputable roofing company.
1. Aging Roof
Most asphalt shingles last about 20 years. If you live in a snowy area or an area that is prone to getting hail, you might have more damage to your roof than you realize. Newer metal shingles and roofing panels typically carry a 50-year warranty and can seriously raise your home’s resale value.
Stone-coated steel and hail-resistant shingles can also make a world of difference when it’s time to sell your home. The installation of these durable roofing materials is typically between $6 and $12 per square foot. Talk to your roofing contractor and they can give you an estimate before they start repairs. They may be able to save sections of your roof, but they might have to replace the entire thing.
2. Mold and Moss
It can be difficult to see the condition of your roof but look for dark streaks that could be mold. If you have moss or mold growing in your gutters, chances are good that your roof is in the same condition. You might think that the mold is confined to your shingles, but it can infiltrate your home. If your shingles are moldy or mossy, it is probably time to replace your roof.
How do you know when you need a new roof? When you see black mold in your attic or walls, or when you’ve got disintegrating shingles clogging up your gutters. Talk to your contractor about cedar shingles: they are another long-lasting roof repair option. They look attractive and act as a mold and moss repellent.
3. Light in Your Attic
Most of us don’t spend too much time in our attics, but they can let us know when to replace roof shingles. If you’re noticing light in your attic or birds and critters in your attic, they’re getting in somehow. Take a minute and look around your attic. Is your insulation dry? Is your chimney in good condition? Are the windows tightly sealed?
After extreme weather, you should always inspect your attic. Ask your roof contractor when to replace roofing shingles. When you’re looking for a roofing expert, make sure they’re licensed, bonded, and insured. We offer free estimates and can handle emergency repairs 24/7, even on weekends.
4. Buckled Shingles
If you can, get up on a ladder and visually inspect your roof. Are the shingles laying flat, or are they curling up around the edges? If they’re curling, that’s called shingle buckling and is a sign that you need a new roof. Cracked shingles are also a sign that your roof is reaching the end of its lifespan.
Talk to your contractor about different roofing options. They may recommend repairing sections of your roof, or they may say that you need to replace the roof entirely. They can help you ventilate your roof, install new shingles, and make sure that your roof is weather-resistant.
5. Poor Air Quality
If you have allergies, chances are you change your air filter on a regular basis. You vacuum up after your pets and you clean regularly. If you’re doing all of this and you still have active allergies, the culprit might be your leaky roof. If water is leaking into your walls and causing mold, you could be at great risk in your own home.
Mold allergies aren’t seasonal: they occur during any month of the year. Ask your contractor to assess your roof, your attic, and your home. You may have a water leak that’s causing mold, and your roof could be to blame. They should also check around your chimney to make sure the flashing isn’t leaking.
How Do I Know When to Replace Roofing?
When you find a reputable contractor, they’ll help you make the repair or replace decision. If you notice any of the five signs we’ve talked about, it might be time to replace your roof. The good news is that a new roof can extend the life of your home. It can also help you when you put it up for sale.
If your roof costs $20,000, you can expect to see an increase in your selling price of $15,000 or more. Mortgage companies are more likely to do business with you and buyers tend to be more interested as well. See if your homeowner’s insurance can cover part of the cost, or whether there are incentives for roof upgrades in your state and local area.
Always take the time to talk with your contractor. They will assess your roofing situation, make the repairs or replacement, and help you by recycling the asphalt shingles.
Help, My Roof is Leaking! What Should I Do?
During a hail storm, the safest place to be is inside. If your roof is leaking, make sure to remove valuables from your attic and place children and pets downstairs. Don’t try to patch the hole yourself because you could get hurt. Stay indoors until the hail storm passes and then we’ll help you figure out when to replace roofing shingles.
If you have a massive leak in your roof, give us a call right away. We will work on emergency damage insurance claims and can provide service at any time of day or night. We are locally owned and operated and work with clients throughout the Kansas City Metro area.
Even if your roof leak doesn’t seem urgent, the damage to your health could be severe. Moldy shingles can ruin your home and give you breathing problems. Send us an email and we’ll schedule a time for a free estimate. We’re looking forward to working with you and helping you solve your roofing issues.