Roof replacements, rather than repairs, make up a significant part of the overall roofing industry. According to Roofing Insights, over 90% of the total roofing market, in both value and volume, is comprised of roof replacement jobs and projects. Roof replacements are unavoidable after a certain length of time. If you notice any of these things about your roof, it's probably time for a replacement.

The Attic Is Leaking

A leaky roof is often first spotted in your attic. If you think that there may be a problem, head up to your attic or crawl space with a powerful flashlight. Look for any gaps or space that is allowing water to get into your home. Check to see if there are any beams of light that are coming through, as this is a sure sign that you have a leaky roof!

The Roof Is Old

Before calling a roofing company, it's helpful to know how long ago your roof was installed. Once you have this information, scheduling the replacement, will be easier. Even though most damage is identified during an attic inspection, it's also important to keep an eye on your roof and your home's exterior. Since a shingle roof only lasts up to 30 years, according to Bob Vila, a roof older than 30 years is a sign you need a roof replacement.

There Are Loose or Missing Shingles

If you notice a lot of loose shingles or it looks like there's disintegration in some areas of your roof, it's time to call a roofer. When shingles are loose, water can easily get under them. You may also notice that water is running down the side of your house. This is often a sign of gutter or water spout damage that should be addressed right away. You may want to have any abnormalities checked out by a roofer, just in case the damage is more serious than it appears.

The Flashing Is Damaged

Metal flashing is the material that protects your home from leaks around chimneys and skylights. If you have an older home, your flashing may consist of tar or roofing cement. Anytime you notice any cracks or raised material, it's important to have them fixed. When your flashing cracks or separates from your roof, it won't take long for water damage to occur.

There Is Rot

When there's rot present in a roof, you'll notice sagging and drooping. This is a serious problem that shouldn't be ignored! When a roof reaches this point, just a repair is likely not an option. Getting a roof replacement as soon as possible is the best, most effective way to address the problem.

There Is Moss Growth

While it may start out looking attractive, moss on your roof can lead to serious problems. Moss, algae, and lichen grow on your roof through a combination of two things: moisture and organic debris. The more water and the more debris, the greater the chance of moss growth. This green plant can become embedded under your shingles or trap moisture. Moss will typically begin to grow in shady areas, such as corners of your roof. If the moss is not removed, it can begin to trap moisture which can lead to leaks and the quicker degradation of your shingles. All moss, no matter the size, can create irreparable damage to your roof if left untreated. The easiest way to remove moss is to use a dry brush to scrape it off completely.

With the proper installation of quality roofing materials and good maintenance, it should be about 15 to 30 years before your house needs a shingle roof replacement, according to Bob Vila. Regular, comprehensive inspections of your roof can help you avoid any issues before this time period. The most important thing to remember is the importance of addressing any issues as they arise. Don't delay when it comes to roof repairs, or you may be looking at a full roof replacement. Give us a call today at Roofing By Curry for all your roofing installation, maintenance, and inspection needs.