6 Signs It's Time to Replace Your Roof

A sound roof protects your home against water damage and other weather elements. Nevertheless, the roof may wear and tear with time. 

Repairs can solve most roofing problems. However, partial or complete roof replacement may be necessary in some cases. Here are warning signs that you need to replace your roof.

1. Water Damage in the Attic or Upstairs

If your roof has gray, yellow, or brown stains, the roof could have sustained damage. Moisture marks may also appear on the underside of the ceiling and walls. Furthermore, the paint on the walls on the upper floors may start to peel. Inspect the attic to determine whether there are leaks or damp rafters.

2. An Old Roof

Your roofing material determines the durability of the roof. For example, asphalt shingles have a maximum lifespan of about 50 years — though 30 is more common — while some metals, such as zinc, can last up to a century. Similarly, wood shingles and shakes typically have a lifespan of about 30 years but may remain functional for up to 50 years in ideal conditions.

If the roof is getting old, you can do a total roof replacement. In some cases, you may be able to overlay the current shingles. Overlaying involves installing an additional layer of shingles over the existing shingles. This method is cheaper than complete roof replacement and improves the appearance of your roof. However, the new shingles won't last as long as they would have if you tore off the old roof and started fresh.

3. Damaged or Missing Shingles

The edges of the roof's shingles can peel away and point upwards. This problem can be due to poor ventilation, improper installation, and extreme temperatures. The result is curling and cupping of the shingles. 

Also, the center of the shingles can rise as the edges remain at the same level. The rising center will cause clawing that may damage the shingles.

If the shingle becomes weak, the adhesive beneath the shingle loosens. Hence, the shingles may become weak and break away from the rest of the roof. Although one or two missing shingles is not a major problem, several missing shingles in all sections of your roof is a serious issue.

4. Clogged Gutters

Roof gutters help to keep water off the roof and block moisture accumulation in your home. If you don't properly clean and maintain the gutters, debris and other particles will accumulate in the gutters. Hence, the gutters will become clogged, leading to the accumulation of snow and water on your roof. You can initially try to unclog the gutters, but if the damage is extensive, the only option is roof replacement.

5. Damaged Flashing

Flashing works with the underlayment to block water from penetrating below the shingles. However, the flashing can rust or peel with time due to several factors. In some cases, flashing near the vent pipes and chimneys may come off completely and go missing. Missing flashing allows water to seep into the attic and enter the home.

6. Granules in Gutters or on the Ground

Asphalt shingles contain granules that protect against UV rays, enhance fire resistance, and provide color to a roof. Also, the granules increase the durability of your asphalt roof. However, the granules can come off and end up in the gutters or in the ground near downspouts. This happens due to the natural wear and tear of your roof.

Sometimes, extreme weather conditions such as hail storms can dislodge the granules from the asphalt shingles. Since installing new granules may be difficult, complete roof replacement may be the only option.

If your roof has sustained damages, you can either repair or replace the roof. United Roofing LLC is a professional roofing company in the Washington, DC, area. We offer multiple roofing services, like gutter repair and installation. Contact us to benefit from quality roofing services.