How do you really know if your roof needs to be repaired or replaced? We’ve got 7 helpful tips on knowing the difference between common roofing concerns.
Tip #1: Monitor the age of your roof
An asphalt shingle roof should last between 20 and 30 years but this of course varies from home to home. How old is your roof? Have you noticed any leaking in the attic? Even if the roof appears to be in good shape, it never hurts to get a roof inspection to have peace of mind and we offer complimentary and comprehensive inspections (complete with photos!)
Tip #2: Granules in the gutter or around the home aren’t always bad
If you’ve just had a new asphalt shingle roof installed, some granule loss is to be expected (don’t worry!), but if your roof is around 10-15 years old, shingle loss is definitely a concern. Granules protect the asphalt from damage so when you lose granules, deterioration of the roof is soon to follow.
Tip #3: Moss or algae on your shingles doesn’t necessarily mean replacement
This is really an aesthetic preference in terms of repair or replacement as these growths won’t affect the integrity of your roof. If you’d like to ‘repair’ the issue, try a gentle wash solution of one part bleach and one part water but avoid any power washing as this will endanger the granules on your shingles. If you can’t stand the appearance and don’t want to try the wash solution, replacement is the next option and just make sure you choose algae resistant shingles as the issue is likely to re-occur based on where your home is.
Tip #4: Missing shingles for a long time are no bueno
Missing shingles are never a good thing as they represent the protection for your roof but if you catch the problem early on, repairs are very simple. The frustration of entire shingle replacement is solely that matching your existing colors is difficult. After your existing shingles have aged and changed from sun exposure and wear, you’ll probably wind up with a mismatched ‘patch-looking’ roof which is fine for integrity but not so much for appearance; which is why some owners opt for a replacement after years of shingle replacements.
Tip #5: Cracked shingles can mean repair or replacement depending on where they are
Cracked shingles commonly occur from wind damage and can take place in a grouped area which means -> easy repair with shingle replacements or in different areas all across the roof which can mean-> replacement in about 3-5 years depending on severity.
Tip #6: Curled shingles are problematic and costly
Curled shingles are signs of weathering and can curl in two ways: clawing when the edges stay flat and the middle starts to come up, or cupping when the edges of the shingles turn upward. This problem can lead to leaks and should be addressed as soon as possible. Based on the extent of the damage you could be in need of a whole roof replacement in as soon as 1 year to as long as 5 years.
Tip #7: A sagging roof means trouble
When you see any part of your roof sagging, you’re seeing a structural issue. Sagging can be caused by a decking issue in the attic or a foundational problem (much worse!). This problem requires immediate attention so please call an expert a.s.a.p.