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When is it Time to Replace Your Roof?

Roofs are built to last and while they can now last for decades on end without any issues, your roof will require replacement at some point. It is a good idea to be aware of the warning signs that indicate you will need a new roof so you will always have a sturdy structure over your head, protecting your home.


Age Of The Roof

After a certain point of time, it becomes a smart decision to replace your roof since it is likely to begin deteriorating quickly. Roofs now last longer than they used to, but you should keep in mind that typical shingle roofs still last between 20 and 25 years. If you installed your roof over a layer of shingles, this figure is closer to 20 years. Once you reach this point, consult a professional to determine if your roof is still fully functional or does indeed need to be replaced.


Curling Shingles

Another indication that it may be time to replace your roof is if the shingles have begun curling. Clawing is when the shingles’ edges remain flat with the middle coming up while cupping is when the edges turn upward. In either case, curling shingles indicate weathering and the fact that you should expect leaks to form in the near future. Once shingle curling begins, you may have between a year and five years to replace your roof, but it is better to err on the side of caution and avoid leaks.


Other Shingle Problems

Your roof’s shingles can let you know that it is time for a replacement in more than one way so do not just look out for curling. If you are missing shingles, you can replace them individually, but at some point, the amount of missing shingles will mean that it makes more sense to just replace the roof. You should also be on the lookout for cracked shingles, which indicate wind damage. As with missing shingles, you could just replace cracked ones. If, however, there are more than a few cracked shingles and they are found throughout the roof, you will probably need to replace the structure within three or five years at the maximum.


Sunlight In The Attic

If you go into your attic and notice there is plenty of sunlight shining in despite a lack of windows, then you definitely need to replace your roof soon. Remember that if light enters, snow, rain, and cold air can as well. While you can patch small holes and leaks, larger ones may indicate structural damage that makes replacing the roof the best course of action.


A Professional Inspection Indicates It Is Time

Of course, perhaps the best indication that you need a new roof is when a professional roofer who you can trust tells you that this is the case. Anytime you notice any of the above issues, you should have a roofing contractor give your structure a thorough inspection to see if you need to make repairs or a replacement is necessary. You should also have regular inspections done for maintenance purposes and if your roofer tells you that you need a new structure, listen to their judgement, provided this is a roofer you can trust. For an inspection or quote, contact a roofer at Transcendent Roofing.