when is it time to replace a roof

When the corners of your roof’s asphalt shingles begin to curl up, crack and lose their protective granules, it is a sure sign that your roof should be repaired or replaced.

More alarming signs include:

• Missing or damaged shingles
• Nail pops
• Damaged roof vents
• Signs of water infiltration inside the home itself

…all which can lead to expensive cosmetic and structural damage. 

do it yourself roof inspection checklist

You can grab a ladder to get up close and personal, but there is really no need to get up on your roof to do a preliminary visual inspection.

Grab a pair of binoculars and work your way around your home or property looking for signs that you roof is nearing the end of its life cycle.

BUCKLING, CURLING, CRACKING, OR BLISTERING SHINGLES

These visual signs can be a part of normal wear and tear on a roof over time and may simply indicate you are reaching the end of your roof’s life cycle. However, they can also indicate other more concerning issues including poor attic ventilation, build-up of moisture underneath the shingles over time, improper installation, use of poor quality shingles, and more.

Regardless of why or how your shingles are giving these visual cues, the unfortunate effect is that the structure underneath is now exposed to the elements, which can lead to water damage and other secondary problems.

MASSES OF MOSS AND LICHEN

This can signal that your roof is decaying underneath the shingles. While black algae stains are just cosmetic, growing green is a sure sign that something is amiss.

SAND-LIKE GRIT IN GUTTERS

Take a look inside the gutters as well. If you can see colored sand-like grit this is actually the degrading protective granules from your asphalt roof tiles – and a bad sign. It indicates your tiles are no longer shielding the shingles from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays.

BROKEN SHINGLES OR SHINGLES THAT ARE MISSING COMPLETELY

If you have shingles that are broken, or missing completely, your building is at risk of water damage from seepage around the missing shingle areas. This is a huge red flag that you need a through roof inspection to determine whether a roof repair, or full replacement, is needed.

WORN OR CRACKED RUBBER BOOTS OR WORN AREAS AROUND VENT PIPES, CHIMNEYS, AND SKYLIGHTS. RUST SPOTS OR CRACKED CAULK ON FLASHING.

The watertight seal around vent pipes, chimneys, and skylights can crack and split over time and with exposure to the elements. Click here to learn more about our ventilation inspection and installation services.

MISSING VENT AND CHIMNEY CAPS

While you’re looking, also check to see if your vents and chimney caps are damaged or missing. While this is not technically part of the roof – water infiltration through an uncovered vent or chimney can cause roof and structure damage.

If your roof is showing signs of any of these issues, it’s time to call in professionals to make a comprehensive assessment of your roofing needs. Contact us today to schedule an inspection before you file your claim.