Roofs are houses’ primary lines of defense against the elements. They help keep out the wind, rain, heat, and cold while contributing to a home’s energy efficiency. Though roofing materials are designed to withstand high winds, hail, extreme temperatures, moisture, and other hazards, constant exposure tends to take its toll after a while. Over time, even the toughest and most enduring roof will need to be replaced.

Exploring the Roofing Materials Market…

Numerous roofing materials are on the market at present, each of which has its own distinct set of benefits and disadvantages. You can visit Dennis & Sons Contracting to learn more about the options at your disposal. Some of the most popular alternatives are clay tiles, metal, wood shakes, and asphalt shingles. Each of these materials can last 25 years or more under ideal conditions. Ongoing maintenance and prompt repairs can greatly extend their lifespans, but time and harsh weather are still significant issues.

Signs You May Need a New Roof…

Sometimes, it’s difficult to determine whether roof damage has become a problem. This is especially true if you’re on the ground looking for damage on top of the house. That being said, knowing some of the common warning signs can help prevent losses and save you a great deal of money in the long run.

1. Soaring Energy Bills

Your energy bills should be fairly consistent from one month to the next with the exception of certain seasonal upticks or downturns. If you notice your power bills are creeping upward or indoor temperatures just aren’t staying as comfortable as they once did, this could certainly be an indication that your roof isn’t doing its job. The roof is supposed to keep out heat and cold, but aging materials and structural damage have the opposite effect.

2. Moisture and Mold Growth

Roofing materials should keep moisture outside where it belongs, but they sometimes fail to do so. At the same time, poor ventilation could cause condensation to form inside your attic. Consider going into the attic and looking for signs of moisture, such as dark stains on the wood and insulation, rusty nails, and mold and mildew growth. Any of these issues could mean the roof is leaking and needs to be repaired or replaced.

3. Gaps in the Roof

While you’re in the attic looking for moisture damage, you might want to look for other signs of problems. One of these could be light coming through the roof. You shouldn’t be able to see sunlight shining through the roofing materials. If you do, exterior damage is definitely present.

4. Granules on the Ground

Asphalt shingles are covered with small granules made of crushed rocks and other particles. Those granules should stay on the shingles, but they don’t always follow the rules. If you notice stray granules in your gutters’ downspouts or other areas around the house, it may be time to have the shingles replaced.

5. Missing Roof Materials

Roofing materials don’t generally fall off on their own, but severe storms and high winds can cause them to come loose. If you happen to notice some of the shingles, shakes, or tiles are missing from your roof, it’s time for extensive repairs.

6. Damaged Flashings

If you feel comfortable climbing up on the roof for a closer look, be sure to check out the flashings around the chimney, vents, skylights, and other features. These are the seals that help keep out moisture. Cracks, gaps, and signs of weathering mean they need to be repaired or replaced.

7. Time

Whether you notice warning signs of damage or not, it’s a good idea to have your roof inspected at regular intervals. Experts recommend having an inspection carried out every five years for roofs that are ten years old or less. If your roof is older than that or you’re not sure how long it has been in place, be sure to schedule an inspection as soon as possible.

Bottom Line…

When it comes to your roof, it’s best not to take chances. Staying on top of minor damage can reduce the need for more extensive and costly repairs in the future. Some signs of damage are only obvious to a professional eye, but others are often easy to spot without ever going up on the roof. Watch for problems, and be sure to have the roof inspected on a regular basis. If you see signs of damage or just want a little extra peace of mind, don’t hesitate to reach out for further assistance.