A robust roof is a must for any home you live in. Whether you have a new home or one that is 100 years old, the roofing you have protects your entire home, including not only possessions but also the ones you love. Here is how you can tell you need a new roof.
One of the first things you should do when thinking about if you need a new roof is how old the roofing is. A roof that is made of various materials will last longer than other materials. The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors provided us with information on how long each type of roofing will last.
- Asphalt shingles will last between 20–50 years
- Wood shakes and shingles will last for 25–30 years but have been known to last up to 50
- Metal: 40–80 years may last 70 years or more for cooper roofs. Zinc can last around 100 years.
- Slate may last between 60–175 years
- Clay/concrete tile roofing will last between 50–100 years.
Another tell-tale sign you need new roofing is if there is damage to the roof. An inspection of the roof should be a part of your regular homeowner’s maintenance. If you have a shingled roof, you might notice they are starting to come up. On a slate roof or even a metal one, you should look for cracks or thin spots. If any area on the roof is dented, cracked, or missing pieces, you will want to look into having a contractor replace your roofing. If you find any granules on the roof, it may mean there was hail damage to it.
Likewise, if your decking has spots that droop, it may be time for a replacement. When the decking, which is the area that supports the roof droops, it means moisture has weakened it. Are you able to walk on the roof? If so, are there spots that feel like a trampoline? Are any areas like a sponge? If so, safely get off the roof asap and call a roofing professional.
You will also want to take a peek at your chimney flashing. Flashing is essential to make certain your roof is sealed around the chimney. Flashing has been known to last up to 30 years as it generally is steel. But if it were to rust or get a crack, your chimney flashing will allow water to leak into the chimney.
If you are able to access your attic, you can also see if there are any holes visible. If you are able to see the sunlight come in, you need a new roof over your head. Even if you do not see any holes, check the insulation to see if there are any wet spots. This will indicate there could be holes or cracks in the roofing.
Do you have plants growing on your roof? If so, check into the roof. Clean it as best as you can, getting off all plant life and debris. If the roof has been damaged, you should check into new roofing.
New roofing can be a daunting task. However, the end results are worth it. If you need a new roof, do not tackle it alone. Call a professional roofing company today, such as Done Rite Roofing Inc. in Palm Habor, FL. They can help you determine what is the best type of material for your home based on your preferences and your budget.