Your roof is one of the most important parts of your house—it protects you from the elements and keeps your family safe. But like all things, roofs have a limited lifespan. Commercial Roofing Mobile has some nice tips on this. Depending on the type of roofing material you have, your roof will last between 20 and 50 years. After that, you’ll need to start thinking about getting a new roof. Here are four signs that it’s time to replace your old roof.
Missing Shingles
One of the most obvious signs that you need a new roof is if you start to see missing shingles. Shingles can fall off for a variety of reasons, including high winds, hail, and age. If you only have a few missing shingles, you might be able to replace them yourself. However, if more than 20 percent of your shingles are missing or damaged, it’s time to call in a professional for a replacement.
Granules in the Gutters
Asphalt shingles are made up of two layers—the top layer is made of asphalt, while the bottom layer is made of ceramic granules. These granules help protect your roof from UV rays and give your shingles their color. If you start seeing an abundance of granules in your gutters or on the ground around your house, it’s an indicator that your shingles are reaching the end of their lifespan and need to be replaced.
Leaks in the Attic
If you have water stains on your ceiling or notice water pooling in your attic after it rains, it means you have a leaky roof. These leaks can cause serious damage to your home if left unaddressed, so it’s important to take care of them as soon as possible. In most cases, leaks mean you’ll need to replace your entire roof—not just patch up a few problem areas.
Sunlight Through the Ceiling Boards
If you can see sunlight shining through the boards in your attic, it means there are gaps in your roof where heat and cold air can enter your home. Not only is this wasteful from an energy standpoint, but it can also be dangerous for your family if any electrical wiring is exposed to the elements. Replacing your roof will help eliminate these gaps and keep your home well-insulated.
Your roof protects you from the elements and keeps your family safe—so when it starts to show signs of wear and tear, it’s important to take action right away. Depending on the type of material used, roofs typically last between 20 and 50 years. If you’re approaching that mark or noticing any of the four signs listed above, it might be time to start thinking about replacing your old roof with a new one.