Many homeowners rarely even think about the roof that covers and protects their homes and belongings. Some might not even be able to tell you the color or type of material on their roof. It is just there and has always been there. So you forget that this essential component of your home can and does wear out. But the problem is that the average homeowner has no idea how to know when that end of life is nearing. So, unfortunately, they are shocked when they discover a roof leak or other damage caused by their deteriorating roof. However, if you know the signs to look for, you can make a proactive replacement and save yourself some costly repairs due to a leaky roof.
Visual Warnings
If you are not in the habit of looking at your home’s roof, it could be a bit of a shock to take a close look at it. But that is the first step in deciding if you should begin budgeting and planning for a roof replacement. Some of the indications that your roof has seen better days include:
- Shingles that are curled at the edges
- Shingles that are broken or missing
- Cracked shingles
- Missing tiles
- Cracked or damaged tiles
- Asphalt shingles with bald spots or missing granules
- Moss growing on any roof surface
- Dark streaks or staining on the roof
- A worn and dilapidated appearance
Time Passes Quickly
Another consideration when thinking about a roof replacement is the age of the existing roof. Ideally, the surface will last at least 20 years, and often more depending on the surface, your environment, and the level of care the roof has received over the years. Things like a professional inspection and cleaning every year can add several years to the life of most roofs.
However, if you have allowed debris to build up and retain moisture on the surface of the roof, you might consider yourself very fortunate to make it 20 years without a significant roofing issue. If you are not the home’s original owner, and you have no record of when the roof was installed, a professional inspection is money well spent. The inspection process will reveal the approximate age of the roof and any minor issues to immediately correct to add to the life expectancy of the surface.
Take A Look Around The Neighborhood
Most neighborhoods are built within about a year, so all of the homes are close in age. And that also means that most of the roofs are close in age. So if you see many neighbors shelling out for a roof replacement, you can bet that there is a reason. And typically, that is because the roofs are about to the end of their reliability.
The Perk Of Being Proactive
If you wait until your roof fails, there will be added expenses and hassle involved in the replacement. And it could also occur at the most inopportune time. However, the benefit of being proactive is that you get to skip all the problematic issues that come with a roof leak, water damage to your home, and even black mold. In addition, you get to schedule the project on your schedule.
To learn more about reroofing your home and to get a free price quote, call (775) 369-1919. The experts at Joe’s Roofing will provide you with an honest evaluation of your roof’s condition. If a few simple repairs are a better investment, we will let you know and provide the cost for the repairs. However, if a roof replacement is the most cost-effective option, we will offer a competitive price for the job.
