If you live in the states of Virginia or Georgia, you know that the weather can be unpredictable. From thunderstorms to intense heat and humidity, your roof takes a beating throughout the year due to its exposure to the elements. Because of this, it’s important to keep an eye out for signs that your roof may need to be replaced. Closely monitoring the condition of your roof, plus having it inspected annually, can help you avoid costly repairs down the road.
Here are some signs that your roof may need to be replaced:
1. Shingles Are Missing or Damaged
If you notice your roof is missing shingles or its shingles are cracked, curled, or buckling, it may be time to replace your roof.
Damaged or missing shingles can cause a number of other homeowner issues including water leakage, damage to the underlying roof structure, and decreased energy efficiency.
Cracked shingles allow water to seep below the roofing material and can cause damage to the underlying roof deck and other components. This can weaken the structural integrity of your roof. Additionally, cracked shingles can reduce the effectiveness of insulation, leading to increased energy costs.
You can inspect your shingles by simply looking at your roof from the ground using binoculars.
Look for any visible missing or damaged shingles. If you have access to a ladder and feel comfortable doing so, you can inspect the roof from a ladder. Make sure the ladder is securely placed and have someone help you if possible.
The safest option, however, is to hire a professional roofer to inspect the roof for any missing or damaged shingles.
2. Water Leaks
If you’ve noticed water leaking into your home, then it’s probably time to get your roof replaced.
Roof leaks in Virginia and Georgia can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor roof design, improper installation, poor maintenance, and extreme weather conditions.
Improper installation of roofing materials, such as shingles, can lead to roof leaks due to gaps between the shingles or between the shingles and the roof deck. This is why you should always invest in a quality Virginia or Georgia roofing contractor that will install your roofing materials the right way.
Poor maintenance of the roof can allow debris like leaves and branches to accumulate, causing water to pool and eventually seep through the roof. Extreme weather conditions, such as hail, high winds, and heavy rain, can also cause leaks in your roof.
The most common signs of water leaks are:
- Water stains on the ceiling and walls
- Mold or mildew growth
- Wet or sagging insulation
Additionally, if you notice cracks in your roof, missing or damaged shingles, or an unusually high water bill, these could all be signs of water leaks. If you suspect that your roof is leaking, it is important to contact a professional roofer for an inspection and repairs.
3. Moss and Algae Growth
If you’ve noticed moss and algae growing on your roof, then it’s a sign that moisture is getting trapped in your roof, which can cause damage over time.
The easiest way to tell if your roof has moss or algae growth is to inspect the roof from the ground. Look for dark streaks or patches on the roof, which can indicate the presence of algae or moss. You may also see discoloration of the roofing material.
If you suspect you have moss or algae growth on your roof, consider hiring a professional to inspect and clean the roof as soon as possible.
4. You’re Seeing Daylight Through Your Roof
If you can see beams of sunlight through your roof, then it’s time to get it replaced. You should never be able to see light streaming through your roofing. If you are seeing light, that’s a sign that either your shingles or plywood sheathing are damaged.
The best way to find the number of cracks or holes in your roof is to have a professional roofer inspect it. They can also check for any signs of water damage, cracks, or gaps in your roofing materials that could be indicative of a hole. You can also use binoculars to search your roof from the ground to look for any obvious signs of damage.
5. Your Roof Is More than 20 Years Old
As a general rule, if your roof is more than 20 years old, then it’s time to replace it.
The average life expectancy of a roof is 20 years because of the wear and tear that it undergoes due to exposure to the elements. Over time, the sun, rain, snow, and ice can weaken the roof’s materials and cause it to deteriorate, leading to the need for your residential or commercial roof repair or replacement.
6. Loose Granules
Loose granules on the roof may indicate that the roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, or that the roof has experienced damage from storms or other weather-related events. While it’s ok to notice some loose granules after a new roof has been installed, if you continue to notice more and more granules, that’s a sign that your roof was not properly installed. If that’s the case, you’ll want to call a professional roofer like SlopePro who takes all the necessary steps to properly install a new roof the first time.
Incremental Weather & Outdoor Elements
Virginia and Georgia are considered four-season states by their residents. This means that Virginia and Georgia’s roofs are exposed to different types of inclement weather and elements that can speed up the wear and tear on your roof.
- UV Rays: The intense sunlight that Virginia and Georgia receive can cause the shingles of a roof to fade and wear down over time.
- Wind: High winds can cause shingles to become loose or even blow off the roof.
- Rain: Heavy rains can cause water to seep through cracks or openings in the roof and erode the material.
- Ice: In the winter months, ice can cause the roof to expand and contract, leading to cracks and other damage.
- Animals: Birds and other animals can cause damage to the roof by pecking at the shingles or creating nests.
In Summary
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, then it’s time to get your roof replaced. It’s important to stay on top of your roof’s condition, as it can easily become damaged over time. Contact a professional roofing contractor like SlopePro to assess the condition of your roof, and get a quote for replacement.
