Most people would agree that a house is so much more than the structure you live in. It’s the gathering place for your family, a place everyone can come back to, your safe place. It is your family’s heartbeat, where countless memories are made, it is your home.
In order to ensure that your home remains all those things, the structure must be well maintained, and one of the most important parts of your home is the roof. Your roof protects your family from the elements unless of course it is in poor condition, when it can let in water, harbor mold and even house unwanted animal guests. So how can you tell if your roof has seen better days? How do you know it is time to get a new roof?
Here are a few quick ways to assess the condition of your roof:
How Old Is My Roof?
People like to view their human age as just a number and do what they can to take care of their bodies to increase longevity. It is a little different when it comes to the age of your roof. While keeping up with regular maintenance and cleaning your roof will help it age better, most roofs generally last between 15 – 30 years, depending on the materials used. Knowing when your roof was installed and what material was used provides a good baseline. Regular inspections can prevent small issues before they become big problems.
Is My Roof Supposed To Look This Way?
What does a worn roof look like? Shingles are a major area of focus for a roof inspection. Are your shingles damaged in any way? This could include shingles that are missing, bent, broken, curled and even the presence of excessive granules in your gutters. When shingles are compromised in any way, it can be a symptom of a bigger issue with your roof.
Should I See Daylight?
Not all inspections take place on the roof. An easy way to see problem areas is by heading up to your attic to look for sunlight peeking through. Sunlight can help you see what you may not have been able to view from the rooftop.
Is Green Your Favorite Color?
Having lots of plants and greenery is a good thing, but you definitely don’t want it on your shingles or tiles. The first sign of any kind of moss or green growth on your roof warrants a call to a professional. Moss on a roof can be an indicator of a moisture or ventilation problem.
What Lies Beneath?
What most people don’t realize that the true story of how long your roof will last is the condition of what lies under the shingles. The underlayment, vapor barriers and flashing give you the most information. A roof with improperly installed underlayment or missing flashing could shorten the life expectancy of your roof. Unfortunately, this story cannot be told unless all the shingles are removed in which case; it’s time for a new roof! When a roofs underlayment and vapor barrier is properly installed it roof should outlive its warranty
We all want our homes to be a haven for ourselves as well as our family and friends. That is why it’s so important to maintain your homes with regular inspection and repair. Don’t ignore warning signs. If you find yourself asking these questions about your roof or would like a professional to take a look, give us a call. We will make sure your roof continues to protect your family for years to come.
