Is it time for your roof to be replaced? Maybe your siding or gutters?
Here are six questions to ask yourself to help determine if its time for a roof inspection.
1. Are your shingles bald, curling, cracked, or missing?
Missing shingles are a telltale sign of a roof in need of replacement. Shingles that are balding, cracking, or curling are likely past their prime. This can signal the damage that the whole roof is experiencing. Without these shingles in perfect condition, they won’t function properly, allowing water to get into your home and wreak havoc.
2. How old is your roof?
The age of your roof and the material that your roof is made with plays a major role in deciding if it’s time for replacement. If your roof is more than 20 years old, making sure it is thoroughly inspected regularly to prevent leaks, mold, and even collapses.
3. Are there stains and streaks?
Black or greenish streaks on your roof indicate the presence of mold or algae. These growths may cause some damage to your roof on their own, but they’re most serious because they’re indicative of moisture.
4. Have you had gutter issues or ice dams?
Whether it’s built up ice in the winter or leaves in the fall, if your gutters can’t drain properly it puts your roof at a serious risk. As the water builds up in the gutters it can be pushed under the shingles and start leaking into the house. Not only does this weaken your roof, but it can create water damage and grow mold.
5. Are there flashing or valley damage?
The flashing around your chimney or a pipe is designed to keep water from getting into the gap between the roof and the item. If there is damage here, it’s an easy way for water to get into your home. Similarly, the valleys where water flows to drain off your roof handle the largest volume of rain and snow. If there’s damage in these high traffic areas, you’re bound to run into issues.
6. Are your walls or siding damaged? Peeling paint? Moldy siding? Discolored walls?
These are all signs of leaks that may be coming from your roof. Damage from storms such as hail can cause gaping holes in your siding as well.
