While no one wants to shell out a lot of money on home maintenance, if it’s not done, it can end up costing you a lot more in repairs, especially when it comes to your roof. Over time, you might start to see signs that it’s time to get it replaced.
While age is a consideration, depending on your roof, it can last anywhere from 15 to more than a century, with the asphalt type on the low end of the spectrum and a slate tile roof at the high end, according to home improvement expert Bob Vila.
If your current roof is starting to reach its age limit, or you notice any of these signs, it can signal that it’s time to get a replacement.
There’s a Leak
One of the most obvious signs that a new roof should be on your to-do list is when it starts to leak. If you live in an area that gets a lot of rain and leaks aren’t repaired quickly and correctly, all that moisture can lead to mildew and damage the interior.
Curling and Buckling Shingles
Another sign that it’s time to get a new roof is when the majority of your shingles begin to curl and buckle. Over time, weather of all types, from heat to blizzards, takes a huge toll on your home’s exterior. If you notice this when you’re not financially prepared to pay for a project as big as getting a new roof, you may be able to obtain roof replacement financing to make it happen and avoid a potentially higher cost that can come with putting it off.
Daylight Through the Roof Boards
If you can walk through your house and see sunlight beaming through some of the roof boards, it’s certainly time to think about getting a replacement. Something as drastic as a hole through the entire roof is a major sign as the open-air can bring in moisture, animals, bugs, and lots of dust. Unfortunately, more often than not, when you see the sun’s rays coming through the roof, it means it’s going to need more than a quick and easy fix.
A Saggy Roof
Having a saggy roof almost always means there’s a big problem. This issue needs to be looked at right away, as it can potentially be the source of significant structural issues. Water and moisture tend to collect in cracks within roofs, and if this situation isn’t taken care of quickly, it could potentially fall inside the home. Since moisture tends to spread fairly quickly, there’s likely no other option than to replace the entire roof at this point.
Paint Damage
Another cue that too much moisture has made its way into your home is paint damage on the ceiling and near the roof. Some of the obvious tell-tale signs include blistering and bubbling paint, which could lead to mold growing underneath. If this problem isn’t caught in a timely manner, it could soften and destroy the roof and all of the material inside it, holding everything together. Not only is mold and dampness in your paint a sign of the building deteriorating, but it can also cause major health issues for you and others living in your home.
