How to Know Your Home Needs a New Roof

Perhaps you’ve lived in your home for many years, or maybe you’ve recently weathered a brutal Midwest hailstorm. As a homeowner, understanding how to know your home needs a new roof is crucial. If you’re uncertain, you’ll eventually find yourself asking this very question.

The need for a new roof can be the result of extreme weather. It can also naturally come with time. Your shingles begin to look old and worn out.

A damaged roof can affect more than your home’s curb appeal. If neglected, a roof that goes beyond its life expectancy can result in costly repairs. We want to provide you with 8 signs that your home may need a new roof.

8 signs that your home may need a new roof

1. Roof age

Most experts agree that a typical asphalt shingle roof will last between 20 and 25 years. However, factors including proper ventilation and how the current roof was installed can impact the longevity of the roof. If the roof was installed over the previous layer or several layers and it is older than 20 years, you’ll most likely need a new roof.

2. Shingles curling and buckling

Look at the slopes of your roof that get direct sunlight. If your shingles are curling or buckling it could mean they are past their lifespan and need to be replaced. However, it can also be the sign of a defective roof. To be sure, contact a licensed roofing contractor to see if you might be eligible for reimbursement.

3. Damage in roof valleys

Roof valleys are some of your roof’s most important areas. These valleys direct snow and rain into gutters. If your roof’s shingles are falling apart or missing in the valleys, your roof is susceptible to leaks. A damaged roof valley is a clear indication you need a new roof.

4. Missing shingles

A roof with missing shingles is a classic candidate for replacement. Missing shingles are often a sign of a failing roof.

5. Old chimney flashing

You should check the flashing around your chimney. If it has roof cement or tar, it may need to be updated with a long-term, water-tight fitting system.

6. Shingle granules in your gutters

Near the end of their life, shingles tend to lose more granules. If your gutters have a lot of granules in them it could be a sign that your roof is at the end of its life cycle.

7. Daylight through the roof boards

If your roof feels spongy or bouncy while walking across it then it means the underlying decking is weakened from moisture. You should also check your attic to see if there is any daylight coming through the roof boards.

8. Your entire roof is sagging

If your entire roof is sagging, you need to contact a professional right away. A sagging roof is usually a sign of a structural issue. The sooner the issue can be resolved the better. There could be a problem with the decking in the attic or even with the supports in the foundation.

Additional point of interest: The shingles are covered with moss or algae

Shingles covered in moss or algae is actually just a cosmetic issue. Typically the integrity of your roof is not in jeopardy. Many new shingles are algae-resistant. But for those who don’t have algae-resistant shingles, they may choose to replace the roof just because they don’t like its appearance.

If you decide you can’t handle the appearance of moss or algae growing on your shingles avoid power washing or scraping it off. This will damage your shingles. Instead, use a wash that’s one part bleach and one part water to remove it. You can also consider zinc strips that can be installed on roof peaks. Once installed they will eventually eliminate the moss and algae.

Know When Your Home Needs a New Roof