3 Early Signs That You Need to Replace Your Roof

 Roof replacement is a job that we all want to put off. Replacing the roof can be a significant financial investment. A new roof will cost anything from $5,000 to $10,000 — or even more. This varies depending on the cost of contractors in your area and the products you use. A new roof can take anywhere from one to several days to install. Alternatively, if you intend to repair the roof yourself, it will be a major home renovation that will take anything from a few days to weeks to complete, depending on how much time and support you have.


All of this is to say that failing to replace your roof when it first shows signs of wear will lead to more expensive repairs down the road. The most common issue is that water seeps in through worn shingles, causing damage to the structures underneath. Leaks and mold begin to appear in the home at this stage. On the milder end of the spectrum, an old roof will simply be unattractive. So, let's take a look at some of the early warning signs that your roof might need to be replaced.

If the shingles on your roof are damaged, you can replace them.

The shingles themselves are beginning to look worn, which is the best way to say you need to repair your roof. There are a few ways to say whether you need a new roof based on the appearance of your shingles:

The shingles' edges can be curled or cup-like in shape.

  • The shingles are beginning to break.
  • There may be bald spots.

In other words, if your roof is beginning to look rusty and worn out, it's time to replace it.

Moss is starting to appear.

Another indication that your roof will need to be replaced is the presence of moss on or between the shingles. Although most on the roof may appear to be a charming feature that will turn your home into a fairy tale cabin in the woods, it is actually a sign of a potential problem.

Moss isn't necessarily a warning that you need a new roof right away. Moss grows naturally on or between shingles, especially on roofs in shady or humid climates. Moss, on the other hand, may indicate hidden damage.

The problem with moss is that it collects water like a sponge and keeps it in place when it rains. Shingles are designed to allow water to roll off the roof and into gutters. Moss prevents moisture from going where it's supposed to go when it's present. As a result, the shingles can begin to deteriorate. Since moss prevents water from hitting the gutters, it can cause water damage and mould growth by allowing water to seep into the layers underneath the shingles.

If you see moss on your roof, you can contact a roofing contractor to clean it up and check for signs of permanent damage.

Consider the roof's era.

Another important factor in deciding whether or not you need to repair your roof is its age. This isn't always a visible warning sign, but it's worth remembering. Roofs that are at least 20 years old would benefit from being replaced with better materials. According to the National Association of Home Builders, typical asphalt shingles last around that long.

Other materials, on the other hand, can last longer. Roofs made of slate, iron, clay/concrete, and wood shakes, for example, will last up to 50 years. So, depending on the material on your roof and when it was last replaced, it might just be time to repair it to prevent future leaks.

Know that with such a large investment, you will want to consider using materials that will last longer and are more durable, such as metal roofing. This is one of those home purchases where a higher initial investment may result in fewer future repairs. It could be a good investment, particularly if you intend to remain in your home for a long time.


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