Signs You Need a New Roof

Roof Age

A great way to determine whether or not you need a new roof is to determine How old your existing asphalt shingle roof is? Most experts agree that a typical roof will last between 15 and 20 years, although we are actually seeing a lot of roofs that are needing replaced much earlier due to poor installations. Whether the old roof was removed, and you only have one layer of shingles, and if it is properly ventilated will have a huge effect on the longevity of your roof. If the roof was installed over another layer or several layers and it is older than 20 years, chances are you need a new roof.

Shingles curling

Shingles that are curled are another sign that you may need a new roof. Look at the slopes of your home that get direct sunlight and if you notice the shingles are curling and losing granules, it could mean the shingles are past their life expectancy. There could also be a possibility that the roof is defective.

Shingles Buckling

Buckling can be caused by a few factors. Either the decking is bad, the underlayment was installed improperly, the shingles were installed without enough nails or the rafters/trusses are damaged.

Damaged Shingles

Hail and wind can destroy your roof after just one storm. If you’ve had a storm in your area, immediately contact Honest Abe Roofing for a free 16 point inspection of your roofing system to determine if your roof sustained damage.

Roof valleys

If your roof shingles are falling apart or missing in this area, it's a definite sign you need a new roof. Valleys are one of the most important areas of your roof. Snow and rain flow through valleys and into gutters. If the valley is compromised, you could be susceptible to roof leaks.

Missing shingles

These are another sign your roof could be failing. Check to see if all of the shingle “tabs” are intact.

Chimney flashing

This is another area to be concerned about. If your flashing consists of roof cement or tar, it may need to be replaced with a long-term, water-tight fitting, which would be a metal flashing system.

Shingle granules in the gutters

Look in your gutters to see whether they are loaded up with shingle granules. Roofs tend to lose more granules toward the end of their life cycle. Inconsistent or darker color on some parts of the roof is another sign the granules have worn away.

Daylight through the roof boards

You notice a spongy feel or trampoline bounce when walking on the roof, which means the underlying decking is weakened from moisture. Check your attic to see if there is any daylight coming through the roof boards. Also check for moisture in the insulation.

Leaks

The most obvious sign that you need a new roof is when you start to notice water entering the home uninvited.

Algae Growth

Algae growth is a sign of a healthy ecosystem, not a healthy roof. Algae growing on your roof is your roofs way of telling you that something is wrong. If you live in the Midwest or eastern part of the U.S. your roof is more likely to have algae/moss.

Mold in the attic

If you have mold growing in your attic, it’s time to get a new roof. Mold loves moist and hot areas with stagnant air. Unfortunately, most homes have improper ventilation which will create an environment in your attic that more resembles a rain forest than a living space.

Black Streaks

The black streaks that you see on your roof are most likely not dirt, it’s probably a form of algae.

Excessive Humidity

If you find it difficult to control the amount of humidity in your home, your roofs ventilation may be the culprit. Warm air rises. If that warm air has no way of escaping, it will just sit in your attic. When warm, moist air sits in the attic it will form condensation on your decking and other surfaces in your attic.

Appearance

One of the first things people will see when they pull into your driveway, is your roof. If that roof looks old and dingy, your home will look old and dingy. Replacing your roof is like giving your home a “facelift”. It will look 20 years younger!

Upgrading your home

Even if your roof looks fine and performs fine, you may just want to upgrade to newer technology. The roofing industry has evolved a lot over the last few years and you may want to take advantage of some of those advancements.

Contact us online for an inspection and free roofing estimate.