Roofing Damage: To Repair or To Replace?
As we get closer and closer to spring time, it’s time to start thinking about outdoor projects. Your roof is one of the most important features of your home and spring is a great time to check if your roof needs any maintenance work. Most homeowners quickly assume they need a new roof after spotting a leak in their ceiling. However, a leak is not necessarily a determining factor of extensive roofing damage. What exactly determines if you need a simple repair like a patch job or an entirely new roof? Check your roof for one of these warning signs.
Curling & Buckling Roofing Shingles
If you notice that your shingles are curled or buckling, this is a sign that you may be in need of a brand new roof. If you take a look at the slopes of your home that have direct sunlight and you see that the shingles are curling, it could mean the shingles are too old and past their life expectancy.
Broken Or Missing Roofing Shingles
Broken and missing shingles are a major sign that your roof is failing. They inhibit a roof system’s ability to get rid of water and can let water in. Damaged shingles can be caused by excessive wind such as a severe storm.
Missing Granules
Granules can wash away over time due to the following:
- Poorly placed downspouts
- Lack of eavestrough
- Valley drainage on a second story that can cause the effect of a waterfall
- Aging of the roof
- Physical damage
Be sure to check your gutters for granules. Roofs typically lose more granules towards the end of their life cycle. The loss of granules will accelerate aging and shingle decay.
Age Of Your Roof
Simply check the age of your existing shingle roof. Roofing experts suggest that a typical roof has a life span of 20-25 years. It’s important to take into account if the roof you have was installed over another layer and if it’s older than twenty years. If your roof is too old, it may be time for a completely new roof to be installed.
Flashings Are Damaged
Examine the flashings carefully. They are typically located around skylights, valleys, rakes, eaves, wall details and chimneys. They have the ability to lift and separate because of general expansion and contraction which causes fasteners to become loose. Your flashings may be in need of a replacement.
If you see any of the warning signs above, you may need to have your roof repaired or replaced by a professional roofer. Dowell Roofing of Murfreesboro, Tennessee is ready to help with any roofing issues you may have. Contact us today to schedule your roof inspection!
