When Should I Replace My Roof?
Your roof is perhaps the most important part of your home — and often the most overlooked. Thanks to your roof, your family and belongings stay protected from the elements. This protection, however, often comes at a cost to the roof itself, as it can suffer damage from wind, falling branches and moisture. Over time, these elements take a toll, eventually compromising the roof’s integrity and ability to do its job. When that happens, a roof replacement might be a better choice than a spot repair.
Here are some factors to keep in mind as you decide if it’s time to replace your roof:
To ensure that your roof stays in tip-top shape, you’ll need to perform regular inspections As you examine your roof, keep an eye out for these issues that could require a replacement:
The answers to these four questions could indicate that it’s time to think about a roof replacement:
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material because they are practical and durable. Under normal weather conditions, asphalt shingles last anywhere from 15 to 30 years, with most needing care around 20. If your roof is nearing the upper end of its life span, it may be due for replacement.
If shingles are missing on your roof, rain and moisture will leak into the materials underneath and damage them. Shingles that are peeling are at risk of ripping off the roof in a storms. If you notice that a large area of shingles is missing, your roof requires immediate attention.
As you walk around and examine your roof, check for spots that feel bouncy or swollen — these indicate water is likely leaking through your roof when it rains. Having a water leakage will damage the roof itself as well as the structure of your house. If your home has a chimney, be sure to check the integrity of the flashing, or material used to seal it where it rises through the roof. Worn, damaged or missing flashing can also allow water leaks.
If you notice areas where your roof is sagging during your inspection, its structure may be weak. Too much snow will cause additional sagging or even a collapse.
After you’ve inspected your roof and determined it may need a replacement, your next step is to call a professional. Tiger Roofing specializes in residential roofing repairs and replacements in Maryland, Delaware, Tennessee and Virginia. Our fast turnaround time allows us to complete most projects in two days, letting you go back to enjoying your home with minimal disruption. Contact us online or call us at (410) 228- 3222 to request an estimate.