It’s easy to spot when many of the areas of your home are in need of repair. Leaking pipes, appliance failures, drywall cracks, the list goes on and on. Roofs can be a different story. Why? Because they are above your head and not as visually accessible!
Having a dependable and serviceable roof over your head is critical and not to be taken for granted. After all, it is all that stands between you and your possessions. Luckily, there are a number of ways to tell if you need a roof replacement. Here are a few to consider.
Roof Replacement Clues
- Areas on the roof are sagging. If you see this problem, chances are good that water has been invading for a while, and has compromised your plywood or OSB sheathing.
Consider the age of your roof. Generally speaking, most roofs last about 20 years. If you are getting to that point, consider making a proactive replacement. - The shingles are cracked or are curling up at the edge. This happens when your shingles are reaching the end of their lifespan. Not only has the waterproofing ability been diminished, it makes it much easier for rainwater to gain entrance. In more extreme situations, entire shingles are missing.
- There are missing granules on the surfaces of your shingles. This can be due to the age of the shingles or battering by the weather. Either way, it’s most likely time to take action before further damage occurs.
- You have experienced recent or frequent heavy hail damage. Even newer roofs can be damaged enough to require repair or replacement before you have to position buckets in the living room to catch rainwater from new leaks!
- The underside of your roof sheathing in the attic is stained or beginning to rot. This is an indication that water has made its way under the shingles and felt protectors, even if it hasn’t dripped onto your attic floor yet.
Making a Determination and Finding a Solution
It isn’t always easy for homeowners to determine whether a complete roof replacement or a few localized repairs are called for. It’s best to consult with a local professional. Located in Des Moines, Iowa, the staff and crew of the VanWeelden Company has been serving our neighbors since 1997. Contact us for a free inspection and estimate.
