5 Critical Indications That You Need Roof Repair or Replacement
Roof repair or replacement can be costly, and homeowners are often inclined to put off reroofing the home as long as they can. The problem with that philosophy is that your roof and home are going to continue to deteriorate until the damages have been repaired, and delaying the inevitable will only cost more money in the long run. These 5 signs are clear signals that you need to schedule a roofing contractor as soon as possible.
1. Sagging Roof
Roofing relies on strict scientific formulas that dictate how much weight can be supported and what stresses are acceptable. When your roof is beginning to fail, that science breaks down, and roof repair or replacement is imminent. One of the most obvious symptoms of a failing roof happens when parts of the roof surface begin to sag-- a certain sign that the trusses and their fasteners are losing their integrity.
2. Ceiling Stains
If you begin noticing brownish stains on your ceilings, the most likely cause of the problem is a roof leak that needs immediate attention. There are other problems that can cause ceiling stains, including a room that is not properly ventilated and leaking plumbing. But a stain appearing on the ceiling closest to the roof is typically a sign of roof issues rather than plumbing problems.
3. Missing or Loose Shingles
Every shingle that curls away from the roof surface or becomes dislodged is a potential home disaster in the making. Missing or broken shingles are fairly common on older roofs with asphalt shingles that are nearing the end of their expected longevity. In some cases, you may be able to have the damaged area repaired, but the odds are good that other shingles will be failing soon, and complete roof replacement is more economical.
4. Decaying Fascia or Soffit
The fascia board is the piece of lumber that covers the end of your trusses, and the soffit is the sheet of wood that covers the underside of your eaves. If either of these areas shows signs of water leakage, rodent gnawing, or termite damage, it is a good idea to have the roof inspected right away.
5. Shingles are Granulating
If you are noticing what appears to be large grains of sand in your gutter spouts, your shingles are beginning to show signs of wear and tear. Asphalt shingles are susceptible to widely fluctuating temperatures, heavy rains, and high winds. the small particles on the surface of shingles will lose their cohesion a little at a time and will be washed away with the next rain. Unfortunately, the underlying cause is one or more shingles that need to be replaced, and granules today could be a major leak soon.
Professionally installed roofing is warranted for 20 years or more. If your roof is younger than 20, roof repair or replacement may be covered by the existing roof warranty. Before you schedule a roofer, check your home's paperwork to determine whether you should be calling the manufacturer rather than a contractor.
