Do You Need a New Roof? Here’s How to Know!

At some point, every homeowner will need a new roof. Materials will inevitably be damaged, and eventually, you will need a replacement. The question then remains, “what signs show that I have significant damage and need to replace my roof?” While some problems are minor and just need minimal roof repair, some can be quite dangerous for your health and require a new roof. 

Here are 6 signs to tell if you need a new roof:

• There is a major leak

• Your roof is over 20 years old

• You have extensive damage to your shingles

• Your roof starts to sag

• There is mold in your roof

• Damaged siding and gutters

There is a major leak

Having a significant leak in your roof can lead to severe damage both inside and outside your home. Water can run into your attic and walls causing all sorts of damage. You may need to replace your roof if you start to see brown stains in your ceiling or water pooling in your attic.

Water can leach into other parts of your home and damage other elements like your electricity or windows. If you find a hole that lets in a sizable amount of water each time it rains or that you can see out of, it’s time for a new roof.

Your roof is over 20 years old

The average lifespan of a roof can be around 20-25 years for an asphalt shingle roof. After that, you may start to notice more wear and tear on your roof than normal. You may also see that some shingles are beginning to curl and fall off. If you are experiencing any of these problems you may need a new roof, and likely sooner rather than later.

However, keep in mind that some roofs have different life expectancies. Calling a quality roofing company can help you determine if you need just slight repairs or an entire overhaul. Roofs made out of metal have a far better lifespan than asphalt. 

You have extensive damage to your shingles

Extensive damage to your shingles will result in water damage, as well as wildlife damage. It can expose your home to harmful bugs and other nasty creatures. Hail damage can also play a big role in the life of your roof. Hail can speed up the process of shingles cracking or coming loose. It can also cause holes to form in your roof.

Extensive shingle damage may result in the loss of mineral granule and sagging. If your shingles start to turn white and lose that substance then you may need a new roof. It’s important to note that single shingles of asphalt dissipation can be easily repaired, but large swathes of erosion constitute the need for a new roof.

Your roof starts to sag

Water and snow usually cause roofs to start sagging when there is a leak somewhere, or when your roof does not properly drain. A sagging roof is no laughing matter and requires roof repair, if not a new roof entirely, as soon as possible. A sagging roof can lead to all types of damage to your home such as mold, and can even be a sign of a possible collapse! 

When the structure of your roof sags like this you need a new roof. Unless you catch it early enough, most experts recommend replacing your roof so it does not rapidly damage other parts of your home. If your roof is relatively new and you start to notice sagging, immediately contact your roofing contractor. There could be faulty materials or construction, which could have disastrous consequences for you and your family.

There is mold in your roof  

Mold in your roof is a bad sign for many reasons. First, it can show that there is extensive damage to your roof. Second, mold has serious health risks for those with asthma and immunosuppression diseases. It can be particularly harmful to the lungs, and anyone who struggles to breathe. Third, mold can easily spread to inside your walls. If not properly dealt with, mold beside a window sill can spread in the walls and roof of your home. 

Mold needs moisture and damp areas to grow. Over long periods of time, mold is known to worsen your health and destroy your home. If you find large amounts of mold in your roof, it may be time to see if you need a new roof.

Damaged siding and gutters

Damaged gutters do not properly drain water. In turn, water can pool or drain into the siding or roof of a home. When this happens it can lead to mold or water damage spreading like wildfire throughout the home. Don’t let this happen. Cleaning your gutters often can prevent water from entering your home. Also, don’t forget to clear brush and other debris from on top of your roof. Rain combined with heavy branches can damage your roof and gutter, and allow water to be trapped underneath shingles.

Do you think you need a new roof but not quite sure where to turn? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back! At Galaxy Construction and Roofing we can help you decide what’s best for your home. We’ll also work with you and your insurance to make sure you get the best deal possible! Contact us today and let’s fix your roof!