Let’s face it, not very many people pay much attention to their roofs. That is, until it leaks. Then people pay a lot of attention to their roof. And sometimes, a lot of money. So how do you know when it’s time to replace your shingle roof?
First, how old are your shingles? Are they nearing 20 years now? It might be time to have your roof inspected to see what kind of shape it’s in. Most shingles only have life expectancy of about 20 years, although advances in roof technology are helping to improve shingle durability and lifespan.
Do shingles blow off regularly? That could be a sign that your shingles have aged to the point where they are not strong enough to stay put in strong winds. It could also mean that the roof was installed improperly by the roof contractor by not putting enough nails in each shingle. Only a roof inspection can determine which.
When you pass your downspouts or clean out your gutters, do you see piles of shingle granules? Granules help protect the shingles from damage and aging. Some granule loss is normal, and you will find some in your gutters or at the ends of your downspouts. Excessive granule loss can speed your shingle’s aging. If there are smooth, black areas, this can be a sign of extreme granule loss and would warrant an immediate fix.
When you look at your roof, look for shingles that have lifted up, are cracked, or have curled edges. These are all signs that your shingles are at the end of their service life, and need to be replaced soon.
These shingles are past their service life and need to be replaced.
If you are able to get in your attic, check out the underside of your roof sheathing. Look for signs of water damage, such as staining, soft spots, or moist areas. The best time to do this would be after a good rain if possible.
If you have looked at your roof and think it might need to be replaced, contact a reliable and trustworthy roofing contractor to come inspect your roof. Not all roof problems have to be fixed with a new roof, so it’s always best to find a roofing contractor that isn’t out to just sell you a new roof.
However, shingles get old and eventually need to be replaced. Your roof contractor should be able to tell you approximately how long your roof should last, and what steps can be taken to prolong its service life. If your home is in the Hampton Roads area, we would be happy to inspect your roof. At Pro Systems, Inc., we do everything possible to extend the life of your roof. Contact us at Pros@TheProSystemsInc.com or (757)506-5019 to schedule a roof inspection.
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