Replacing your roof isn’t a task that you should take lightly. It may be an expensive undertaking, but it’s an important one, too. After all, your roof is what provides you protection from the elements. San Antonio roofing companies recommend replacing the roof every 10 to 20 years, depending on factors. Roofing companies in parts of the country where there’s a lot of snow and ice may recommend every 5 years.
The good thing is that there are ways to identify when it’s time to pay for a replacement.
There’s Extensive Storm Damage
Every city is prone to storm damage. It may be hail, strong winds, or even snow. Wherever you live, you may experience storm damage to your roof. Some roofs are more prone to damage than others. However, you may find that you’re dealing with trees that have hit your roof, shingle loss, and excessive water pooling due to drainage issues.
When you have storm damage, you can get the home insurance company involved. Often, you’ll be able to get a new roof by filing a claim. Once an adjuster sees the damage, you’ll only be responsible for the deductible.
An Inspection Identifies Problems
You should be getting your roof inspected at least once a year. To be on the safe side, two inspections can ensure that you’re not caught by surprise regarding any damage. A roofing inspection encompasses several things:
- Structural
- Material
- Interior
- Workmanship
By checking for all of these components, it will make it easier to identify the damage, sagging, missing components, and even incorrectly installed components.
When your roofing shows that there are issues in several different areas, it is time to look at replacing the roof. This will ensure that all issues having to do with structure, materials, and workmanship are sufficiently addressed.
You Spot Dark Streaks
You can only clean your roof in so many ways without causing damage. Over time, airborne algae can accumulate on your roof. When this happens, you’ll notice dark streaks that form various shapes on your roof. This can often be seen with a visual inspection from the ground. Those streaks are actually staining from the algae.
While the algae may not actually cause harm to your roof, it’s not going to offer any kind of visual aesthetic. Especially if you’re considering selling your home, it will have a negative effect on curb appeal.
Additionally, it may not be algae. It may be mold or another issue that actually is causing damage to your roof. A roofing inspector will be able to identify the actual cause of the dark streaks. This way, you can decide whether a roof replacement is the best move.
Your Neighbors are Doing It
The reality is that if you see all your neighbors getting new roofs, you should probably succumb to the peer pressure. At the very least, request an inspection. Your neighbors likely built their homes around the same time that yours was built. Additionally, their roofs are going to be exposed to the same weather conditions.
So, if you see two or more of your neighbors getting their roofs worked on, it’s advantageous to have a talk with a roofing company. The roofers working on your neighbors’ homes may even stop by to discuss a roof replacement with you.
Your Roof is 20+ Years Old
Although you may think that you’re getting an incredible deal when your roof lasts for 20 years or more, you’ve actually got a ticking time bomb on top of your home. You may not see the damage because it’s out of sight. However, it’s most likely there. You may have an entire layer of the roof that is missing granules or damaged in another way. This means that you’re vulnerable to water damage, leaks, and even insulation problems.
There’s no need to panic about the costs of a roof replacement. Payment plans are often available. Additionally, your home insurance company may cover the costs, especially if it’s as a result of storm damage. Rather than guessing at whether you need a new roof and determining the costs, call a roofing company to have someone come out and provide an inspection. Once you have a report in your hands, you can start to ask questions.
Well researched and helpful. As a roofer, I feel this will inform the readers inexperienced with home ownership or not. I would add more about longevity of roof types. Though it’s true that maybe 90% of residential roofs are composition (asphalt) shingles, there are quite a few types that vary in material, cost, and longevity. Three basic examples are Tile, cedar, and standing seam metal roofs. The last being an extremely long lasting and durable roof, great for extreme conditions. They can last 50-100 years with proper maintenance. Anyway, loved your blog. Keep em coming.