Learn how to tell if it’s time to replace your home’s roof!
As roofing experts, one of the most common questions we receive concerns when a roof should be replaced rather than repaired. While every situation is different, there are a few signs you should be looking for.
If you have an older home, you should look to see when the roof was last replaced. A typical roof composed of asphalt shingles is expected to last anywhere from 20 to 30 years, but in general, you should be thinking about a roof replacement starting at age 20. If your roof hasn’t been looked at by an expert in more than 30 years, then you should seriously consider calling a roof contractor for an inspection. If you live in a neighborhood in which the homes were constructed at similar times, you can ask your neighbors about when they plan to replace their roofs.
Leaks are indicative of weak spots in your shingles, underlayment, flashing, or a combination of all three. Leaks can certainly be annoying to deal with, but they are cause for concern due to the possibility of mold and mildew developing. In addition to being a health hazard, mold and mildew can both contribute to structural damage in your home. The last thing you want to do is pay for an expensive mold remediation service, so consider replacing your roof if you discover that several areas are leaking.
Curling shingles a sure sign that it’s time to begin thinking about a roof replacement. Shingles can curl in two different ways: cupping and curling. The former will turn upward and fold toward the center of the shingle, while the latter will curl from the middle out. Regardless of whether your shingles are cupping or curling, both are indications that your roof has been severely battered by the weather.
Another sign that it may be time to replace your windows is when you find that entire singles are missing. While it’s generally not a difficult task to replace a few shingles here and there, the main problem lies with aesthetic appeal. If your roof is at the point of losing shingles, then it’s highly likely that the shingles have been bleached and discolored by the sun. The color of your shingles has almost certainly changed in the time since your last roof installation, and a few new shingles can look odd from afar. Your home can begin to look battered and unsightly when the roof is checkered and spotty, so considering investing in a roof replacement if your shingles are falling off in droves!
As we noted in one of our blog posts, moss and algae are primarily a cosmetic issue. While it can be unsightly to have a creeping spot of green moss on your roof, it’s not an indication that there’s anything structurally wrong with your roof. Many homeowners try to scrape moss and algae from their shingles, but this will actually remove the granules from your shingles. If you live in a neighborhood governed by a homeowner association or if you plan on selling your home in the near future, investing in a new, moss- and algae-free roof is a great way to ensure that your home stays attractive from the curb.
Unlike the previous point, a sagging roof should set off your alarm bells. A sagging roof is indicative of a serious structural problem in your home, and even if your roof isn’t in danger of immediate collapse, you should always call a qualified expert to inspect a sagging roof.
If you’re thinking about investing in a roof replacement, then you should also be considering the health of your gutters. While your roof and your gutters are often thought of as distinct from one another, they influence each other in important ways. Gutters are best thought of as an extension of your roof, and as such, it’s important to make sure that they’re well-maintained. Gutters that haven’t been cleaned for several months are likely becoming clogged with leaves and other debris, and this can create a damaging downward pull on the edge of your roof.
The main function of your gutters is to divert water away from your home. When your gutters become clogged and unable to divert water away from your roof, stagnant pools of water can collect and harm your roof by creating the ideal conditions for mold growth and rot. If you’re wondering about the health of your gutters, just call one of our gutter experts for an inspection!
Why choose Blue Springs Siding and Windows for your roof replacement project? Simply put: our service is the best in the Kanas City area. Many other companies in Kansas City may claim that they stand for quality, but we back it up with a guarantee that our competitors cannot match.
When you select the best materials possible and go with the best roofing contractors in the area, you’re going to get a great result. Let Blue Springs Siding and Windows install your new roof today!
For a free roof replacement consultation with Blue Springs Siding and Windows, please call us at 816-228-5225 or submit our contact form.
We look forward to working with you!
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