James Robinson Roofing

Roofs are one of the most important parts of a home. They keep the house protected from rain and snow, help keep it insulated, and can make the house look more attractive. But like any other part of the home, roofs have a finite lifespan. They will need to be repaired or replaced at some point in time. The challenge is knowing when this needs to happen so that you can take action before it gets too late.

Assessing the Condition of Your Roof

If you are unsure about whether your roof needs to be repaired or replaced, the best first step is to do a visual inspection of your roof. You can do this yourself, although having a professional roofer make an assessment of your roof can be helpful. Here are some things to look for as you make your inspection. – Missing or Damaged Shingles – If you find that there are shingles missing or that they are cracked or curled, this is a sign that your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan. Missing shingles can also lead to other damage, such as leaks. – Curled Shingles – Curled shingles are usually an indication that the shingles have been exposed to too much heat, which can happen when the weather is particularly hot. They can be repaired, but you will have to replace them eventually. Curled shingles can also be a sign that the shingles are too old and may have been improperly installed in the first place. – Dark Colored Granules on Your Roof – These granules come from asphalt shingles, which are the most common type of shingle used on residential roofs. As asphalt shingles age, their granules get darker, turning from gray to dark brown. Dark granules don’t necessarily mean that your roof is beyond repair; they just indicate that the shingles are getting close to the end of their lifespan.

Seeing Signs of Damage

One thing to look for as you conduct your roof inspection is damage to your roof caused by storms or other natural disasters. If a recent storm or hail storm caused damage to your roof, you will want to address that as soon as possible because it could lead to bigger problems. If you see any signs of damage, you will want to get a roof repair contractor out to assess the damage right away. Some other common signs that you need roof repair include cracked tiles, missing shingles, dents in the roof deck, and broken or bent flashing. Water damage inside your home, such as mold or a musty smell, can be signs that your roof is leaking.

Check for Leaks

If you suspect that your roof is leaking, there are a few ways to check for leaks. If you have a garage or a covered carport, you can use a bucket to see if there is any pooling water in the roof. You can also check for leaks by going up on the roof and walking around, looking for areas where there is standing water or where water is seeping in. You can also check for leaks by listening for dripping water inside your house. If you find a leak, you will want to get a roof repair contractor out to your house as soon as possible to make the necessary repairs. If a leak goes unchecked for too long, it could lead to more extensive and costly roofing repairs later on.

Your Roof’s Age

Another important factor to consider when you are assessing the condition of your roof is its age. Roofs have a lifespan of about 20 years, and after that, they will need to be replaced. If you have an older roof, you may need to consider getting it replaced. The problem is that you can’t really tell whether your roof will last another 20 years or only another five. Age isn’t really a clear indication of when you’ll need to replace your roof. And one advantage of an older roof is that it is more affordable to repair than a brand new roof. A roof’s age is a factor, but so are its condition and the type of roofing material you have. A roof that is in good condition and is the right type for your climate can last much longer than a roof that is nearing the end of its lifespan.

Consult with a Professional

If you are unsure about whether your roof needs to be repaired or replaced, it can be helpful to consult with a roofing professional. They can perform a thorough visual inspection of your roof and can let you know if you need repairs or if you need a new roof. If you decide that you need a new roof, a roofing professional can also help you decide what type of roof would be best for your home. They can help you choose a roof that will last a long time and fit with the design of your home.

Conclusion

If you want to know whether your roof needs repair or replacement, you can start by inspecting your roof visually. Look for signs of damage, leaks, and any indication that your roof is nearing the end of its life. If you notice any of these signs, it is a good idea to get your roof inspected by a professional to see what repairs are needed and if a new roof would be more cost-effective.