If you’ve been paying for roof repairs on a near-constant basis, or if you’ve noticed dark, moisture spots on the ceiling, you should know that these are some of the more obvious signs that it’s time for a roof replacement. Being able to identify the breakdown of this incredibly important structure before actual property damages occur, however, is the absolute best way to protect your home investment. Following are several ways to determine whether your roof has reached the end of its lifespan.
The Age Of Your Roof
One easy way to determine the longevity of your roof and to budget for its future replacement is by learning its age. If you bought your Jacksonville FL home brand new, then you should be able to determine the age of this property feature by reviewing your purchasing contract, contacting the company that handled the original roofing construction, or by simply calling your builder. For existing construction, however, additional legwork is often required. You can try reaching out to the listing agent or the seller. The typical, asphalt shingle roof will last between just 20 and 25 years.
Curling Shingles
When the shingles on your roof start buckling and curling, this is a sign that the roof is beginning to undergo an age-related breakdown. Shingles are the outermost barrier between the natural elements and the roofing substrate that protects your home. Once these have been compromised by normal wear and tear, water leaks will invariably begin to occur. Check for loss of granules as well, as this is also evidence of advanced aging. You may find that granules have begun collecting in your gutters or that these are being washed out of your downspouts. Roof shingles generally lose their granules right at the very end of their lifespans.
Missing Shingles
In addition to time-worn shingles, you should also check for shingles that are outright missing. Each roofing component serves a purpose, and when even one of these components is no longer in place, the entire surface becomes vulnerable to moisture and other problems. When checking for missing shingles, make sure to look at the roof valleys. Rain must travel through your roof galleys to reach the rooftop drainage system. When shingles are missing in these areas, the likelihood of roof leaks is at its highest.
Your Roof Feels Springy When You Walk Across It
If you can safely traverse the surface of your roof, take a few steps across it to see how it feels. If the underlying boards feel loose and springy, this likely means that they’ve been weakened by prolonged exposure to moisture. Whenever rooftops feel spongy, homeowners should additionally check their attic insulation for evidence of moisture.
If you suspect that now is the time to get a new roof, take a trip to your attic to see how things are faring at the building interior. Water stains, streaks, and beams of light shining through the roof boards are among some of the best evidence of a need for a total roof replacement. You can also have a licensed, Jacksonville FL contractor conduct a thorough roof inspection to ensure that your roofing issues are all age-related, rather than the result of a faulty installation.
