Roofs are an important part of a house’s structure due to their protective function. Homeowners may only see an issue with their roof once they notice a bad leak but this is often too late. To prevent extreme damage, here are 5 signs that you need to keep an eye out for to help you proactively decide if you need a new roof.
Search the Interior for Cracks, Stains, and Streaks
Check the interior of your roof for visual signs that are easy to spot. If you notice that daylight can pierce through your roof, then it may be likely that water can also get through. Larger cracks are avoidable if you catch them early.
Stains and streaks are also signs to look out to avoid significant damage to your home. These are easy to catch as the moisture appears as a stain or a streak under the roof or running down your walls, which weakens the structure of your house.
If you’re able to identify these warning signs early in their development, then they're all you may need are roof repairs in Orlando FL. If these issues are recurring, then it may be time to invest in a new roof and get a replacement.
How Are the Shingles Looking?
You need to get on top of your roof to check whether the shingles are still in good condition. Missing, cracked, rotten, or curled shingles are a sign that the material has met its maximum wear. Even if only a few shingles are in bad condition, it’s most likely that the rest of your roof will look similar soon.
It’s difficult to continually find a few replacement shingles every time you notice one is off. So it’s likely time for you to invest in a new roof to ensure the safety of your home.
Is There Any Moss or Algae on Your Roof?
Moss and algae aren’t necessarily a sign that your roof needs to be replaced, but it could also be a sign that moisture is trapped inside your roof. Make sure to check the interior for any signs of damage. Otherwise, it may be an aesthetic issue that you want to fix.
To get rid of the algae and moss, use water and hose down your roof to eliminate any residue. Be careful not to damage the shingles.
Is Your Roof Dipping?
If your roof looks like it’s sagging, then it’s an urgent sign that there is a problem with the structure, and can break down at any time. Unlike the other signs, this means an immediate replacement, especially if your roof is old.
When Was the Last Time Your Roof Was Replaced or Needed a Repair?
Search for old paperwork that you have that was for a roof replacement or repair. This will let you know how many years it has since you last encountered a problem and can be a sign of when the roof will start to wear and tear.
The average lifespan of your roof will depend on the type of roof, material quality, and environmental conditions. Knowing the average of your type of roofing material can help gauge when a replacement will be in your future. It’s a good idea to look for these documents to know the age of your roof.
Conclusion
Sometimes, your roof only needs small repairs. But if decades have gone by since you last replaced it, then these signs may be important to take notice of. Keep these in mind as a homeowner and make the needed reparations or replacements as soon as you can to have peace of mind.