What are the signs you need a new roof?
Undoubtedly, a sturdy and strong roof is highly important for every business owner as it protects from rain and snow. Meanwhile, it keeps you warm and cozy during winters while sheltering you against the harsh weather. When you see missing shingles, curling near the edges of your roof, or other signs that you need a new roof, contact a roofing contractor immediately.
A well-built roof safeguards you and your loved ones from changing weather but is most susceptible to damage. Typically, your roof withstands lots of wear and tear every year, including snow, dust, sun, wind, debris and rodent infestation.
Therefore, of all the major home repairs, roof replacement is one of the most important ones. Adding a new roof is not all about glamour but making it more functional to protect you and your home from further destruction.
An old roof will allow the water to seep through the walls, compromise attic insulation and pave for mold and mildew. Nothing can be as disastrous as a failed roof in home maintenance as it can destroy everything, including the foundations. Pay attention to the signs that you need a new roof and get them repaired as soon as possible.
Although the roofs come with a 25-30 years deadline, you should check it at least twice a year to ensure there are no damages. Keeping a check on your roof will also help you identify early signs of repair or replacement that will allow you to avoid the potential dangers of an old, failing roof.
Here we’ve rounded up ten early signs warning you of a needed a roof repair or replacement:
- Water Damage/Attic Leaks
Leaks and water damages are the most evident signs of faulty roofs. Typically, you should check your attic every once in a while, especially after rains, to notice any trace of damp patches or watermarks, which are a sure indication of a failing roof.
During the snowy season, you can even check for ice dams that form when the snow melts and refreezes in the gaps between the eaves of your roof. If you see water damage in a certain part of the roof, you may not need to install a new one but get that certain part repaired.
- Mold Growth
The growth of mold, moss, and algae is aesthetically unappealing and affects the lifespan of the roof and poses health hazards. The mold and moss on your roof shingle or tiles can cause them to break apart while also loosen its fitting.
This also creates a gap and lets the water seep into your house. Furthermore, it allows mold to penetrate the walls, which damages the water pipelines and electrical wirings. Constant exposure to mold is dangerous for health as it can cause skin and respiratory problems. So deal with it as soon as possible; however, power wash and scraping are not solutions. It can further damage your roof, so the best thing is to get it professionally treated.
- Sagging
A sagging roof indicates structural damage mainly in the roof frame, which could potentially be life-threatening. Typically, a roof saddles because of moisture, poor-quality materials and improper fittings. Heavy snowfall can add to the weight and slumps the roof; thus, it’s important to get your rooftops instantly cleaned.
You should also use the right kind of materials so that it can withstand the climatic conditions of that particular region. If you notice a dent in the roof, it’s best to immediately call the experts to get it fixed. It’s easier to address the issue when the dropping is small and localized.
- Debris in Gutters
A new asphalt shingle roof may pollute the gutters with a handful of granules. But it’s been 5-8 years when you changed your roof or repaired it, but you still find debris in the gutters; it’s a sign of a bigger problem.
If you find sand-like granules in your gutters, then it’s the topcoat of the shingles that are coming off. It also means that the condition of roof shingles is deteriorating. In most cases, atmospheric pressure sloughs off the protective coating and weakens the asphalt. It also shows the poor-quality of material as a protective layer sheds off when the shingles are not properly baked and coated.
- Light in Your Attic
Everybody knows why and how hazardous it is! If the light can enter your attic, so does rain, dust, wind and snow. What does that mean? It’s a sure sign that you are not completely protected or safe in your home. According to experts, you should also check for water stains and monitor them over a few rainfalls. If the size of the patch changes, it means you have a leaky roof.
While repair or replacement depends on the extent of the damage, you’ll need a pro to gauge that. Early detection may require some patchwork, but larger stains call for structural damage. The material’s age also impacts the process, so it’s wise and cost-effective to fix the problem as soon as possible.
Factors to consider for Roof Replacement:
Here, we will discuss a few elements that affect the needs and timeframe for roof replacement.
- Roof Material Used
Typically, roof material choice depends on the area you live in and your likings. In some regions, metal roofs are preferred for their fire-resisting properties, while others use tiles or wood shingles. Moreover, the roof pitch or angle also defines the type of material you use on your roof.
Here are some common roofing materials for residential homes and the average lifespan for each material:
- Asphalt shingles – lifespan of about 20 years
- Wood shakes – lifespan of about 30 years
- Metal roofs – lifespan of about 40 – 70 years
- Slate Roofs – lifespan of about 75 – 200 years
- Synthetic tiles – lifespan of about 30 – 50 years
- Clay or ceramic – lifespan of about 50 – 100 years
- Layering Shingles on Your Roof
In the olden days, contractors layered shingles over the existing one to create a multi-layered roof. However, over the years, it has become malpractice in many jurisdictions and, therefore, banned. But even if your state allows layering roofs, then you should consider its pros and cons, such as:
Layering roofs can become too heavy for the frame and cause structural problems while also repeating existing surface damages. Therefore, you should rectify the problems existing in the current roof before layering a new one.
However, the primary benefits of layering roofs are that you reduce the work and material wastage. Stripping off the old roof and installing a new one can add more steps to the process and increase material and labor costs.
- Price
Several factors affect the pricing of your roof repairs and replacement. From the choice of materials to the contractor, the pitch and area, all these elements influence the overall cost.
A roof with asphalt shingles can cost $3.50-$5.50 per square foot in the US, including the fee for demolition, repair permits, waste disposal, and cleanup.
How can I bring Down the Price of Installing a New Roof?
- Work Off-Season
Typically, homeowners opt for roof repairs during late spring and early fall, which is when the cost is quite high. You can try working with the crew members offseason when the labor demand is low, and the cost is also quite low. This means you’ll be getting the same professional work at a lower price and a quick turnaround time. The winter is not usually the time homeowners think about roof replacements, but it could be the most beneficial for you.
- Do Your Research
It’s best to know what kind of roof replacement you require as you’ll know the kinds of material, complexity and size of your roof. It will help you estimate your entire project’s cost and allow you to negotiate with the contractor.
- Contact a Local Contractor to Get a Quote
Talk to multiple contractors, roofers and architects to get a range of pricing. You can also ask your friends, family and neighbors to refer you to a reliable professional. Moreover, you should check with the state consumer agency to ensure the company is licensed.
- Do the Basics Yourself
If you’ve time, then do some of the work yourself, such as removing the old roof. This will help you reduce the overall cost of the project. But make sure the contractor you’re working with allows it. But remember, it’s a backbreaking and dangerous work while disposal of waste material is not easy. While this option sounds great on paper, it may not be feasible, and your best option is usually to contact a professional.
- Make Use of Your Homeowners Insurance
An insurance policy must cover your home. Check with your provider as many of these policies cover roof damages that are not a result of neglect. For instance, a natural disaster has destroyed your rooftop; the policy may pay a certain percentage of the total expense. When contacting your local roofer, make sure they have a solid reputation as well as plenty of experience dealing with insurance claims. A reliable roofer will be your best ally when negotiating with your insurance company.
Benefits of Roof Replacement
Installing a new roof can bring you several benefits, including:
- Increase Aesthetic Appeal
Placing a new roof will improve the overall look of your home and make it more eye-pleasing. Moreover, it will also increase the retail cost of your home in the fair market. Homeowners are less likely to purchase a home when the roof needs repairs, and it may be difficult to get the price you are asking for. Showing off your home with a brand new roof will significantly improve the chances of you getting your asking price.
- Improve Energy Efficiency
An old roof can greatly compromise the insulation and thus affect the inner environment. Your house may get too hot in summers and extremely cold in winters, which will lead to the use of various temperature regulating equipment. However, a new and highly functional roof will save the cost of your energy bills and prevent the wastage of resources.
- Enhances Safety Levels
A new roof means a stable shelter to protect you and your loved ones from heavy rains, snowfall and scorching heat. It will also prevent mold or rodent infestation and thus eradicate the chances of health issues.
If you are ready to take the next steps and get your roof replaced, contact a contractor like Above The Rest Roofing And Siding. We use our 25 years of experience to make the process of a roof replacement hassle-free as well as answer any questions you may have about your current roof. Give us a call today or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free estimate. We proudly serve all towns in Connecticut at a time that is convenient for you.