Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, keeping both you and the rest of your house well-protected from the elements. However, roofs don’t last forever, so keep an eye out for the tell-tale signs that your roof needs a replacement:
Old age
Look through your home’s records to figure out how old your roof is. A proper roof can last up to 20 to 25 years, so while the age of your roof shouldn’t be the only reason you get a new roof, it’s a sign that you should start keeping an eye out for trouble.
Water in the attic
One of the first places you should look when gauging the health of your roof is the attic. Get a flashlight and look for any stains, streaks, or other signs of moisture. If you find any, that’s a sign of a leaky roof that needs to be repaired.
Missing or damaged shingles
Missing shingles are a clear-cut sign that you should get a new roof. However, other signs of damage may not clear from the ground, so grab a ladder and get up near your roof to inspect the shingles properly. If you see any that are cracked or buckling, then repairs are in order.
Cracks in the flashing
The flashing is what keeps water from seeping into your home around vents, skylights, and chimneys, so cracks and breaks can be a big problem. And if you have an older home, the flashing will likely consist of roof cement or tar, so be sure to upgrade your flashing to metal when the time comes for a new roof.
Plants are growing on your roof
If you find that plants such as moss, mold, or fungi are growing on your roof, then that means moisture is starting to seep in somewhere. Moisture is a serious problem alone, but the plants themselves will also further damage your roof. You can scrape away the plants with a stiff brush, but since they’re usually a sign of another underlying problem (i.e. moisture), it’ll be best to replace the roof entirely.
If you notice any of these signs on your roof, then it’s time to hire a roofing contractor. At Ivy Lea Construction, our professional roofing services can enhance both the structure and aesthetics of your roof. So give us a call at 716-875-8654 today to learn more.
