6 signs you need a new roof

With all the recent rain in Arizona and more on the way, it might be obvious for some when you need a roof repair. For many homeowners, the first indication they have a roof problem is the discovery of water leaking through to a wall or ceiling.

But rain damage and leaks aren’t the only indication something is wrong.

Determining when it’s time for a new roof can actually be pretty simple. There are several signs that will tell you when your roof is wearing out. If you still aren’t sure, you can call an experienced roofing expert to come and take a look.

Here are some of the common problems you might notice when your roof is nearing the end of its useful life. 

Shingle problems

Shingle issues can usually be spotted from the ground. Step back and view your roof from a distance. When asphalt or fiberglass shingles wear out, they often start to curl. Cupping happens when the edges curl up, according to goodhousekeeping.com. Clawing means the edges curl under. Shingles also get dry and brittle and start to crack or even break apart. You might even notice places where shingles are missing.

Interior signs

Big leaks often present as an area of bowed sheet rock. The ceiling or wall absorbs water and the weight causes the board to sag or bend. With enough water weight, the ceiling can even collapse. Smaller leaks show up as bubbled or peeling paint, discoloration on the wall or ceiling, or wallpaper that begins to peel. If the leak is small but persistent, visible mold can appear. Any of these signs means you need to call an expert immediately before the damage gets worse.

Inspect the metal

Some of the most critical areas on your roof are those places where metal and shingles meet. The National Roofing Contractors Association advises checking around chimneys, pipes and flashing for loose material or openings. These should be sealed with asphalt caulk to prevent water from getting under the shingles.

Check the attic

You want to get a look at your roof from the underside.  Look for daylight coming through the roof boards and check for moisture in the insulation. If you can see light filtering through your roof, that means water can also get in. Damp insulation can mold, but it also isn’t as efficient at blocking cold. These are immediate problems to tackle.

Inspect your gutters

Asphalt shingles are covered with small gravel. The gravel helps protect the shingle and deflects heat and moisture. Over time, the gravel can wear off the shingles, making them more susceptible to damage. One way you can tell if the shingles are wearing out is to check how much gravel is in your rain gutters. If there is a lot, you need to look closely at your shingles. If most of the gravel is missing and the fiberglass and asphalt are exposed on the shingles, you should think about a roof replacement.

Check the age

Traditional roof shingles last 20 to 30 years. If it has been that long or longer since the shingles were installed, you should have the roof inspected to see if it needs replacement. If the roof only has a single layer of shingles, then reroofing can be as simple as adding another layer. If you have an older home that already has two or more layers, chances are the old roofing will need to be removed. Sagging or soft areas on the roof indicate possible structural issues that need to be repaired.

Call an expert

If your home is showing any of these symptoms, consider calling an experienced roofing contractor to have a look. If the problem is simple, such as loose flashing around a chimney, you might be able to get by with an inexpensive repair. If it is time for a new roof, an expert can explain your options and tell you what needs to be fixed.

 

 Since 1994, KY-KO-Roofing has replaced tens of thousands of roofs in the Valley. Over 50% of our business is from referral or repeat customers and that when surveyed over 95% say they would refer us to a friend or family member. KY-KO Roofing Systems specializes in installation, maintenance, repairs, all roof types, foam, flat, shingle, tile, residential, commercial and industrial. Visit us at www.kykoroofing.com or call 602.353.7187 to schedule a free roof check up.