Originally posted on https://innewsweekly.com/when-does-a-roof-need-to-be-replaced-5-telltale-signs/

When does a roof need to be replaced? For many homeowners, this question is reason enough for a fair share of sleepless nights.

First things first: if you discover any problems with your roof, you need to act fast. Most of the time, indecisiveness will cost you more than the repairs. In extreme cases, neglecting your roof can lead to serious foundation issues.

Of course, knowing when you need to act is not always a simple task. Here are the 5 most common signs that you need a new roof.

1. Roof Age

If your asphalt roof is older than 25 years, it may have outlived its usefulness. In fact, there are various factors that can speed up a roof’s aging process. These include improper design, exposure to sunlight, lack of maintenance, etc.

Now, it’s true that many old roofs look great for their age. That doesn’t mean they’re still structurally sound. If you’re not sure whether your roofing needs replacing, get a professional to inspect it.

2. Buckling Shingles

Even if your roof is in its prime, you should still periodically examine it. While you’re at it, you may notice that some of the shingles seem buckled. Buckling looks like something underneath the shingles is pushing them upward.

The most common denominator for buckling shingles is excessive moisture. This is often a warning sign of bigger issues, such as inadequate ventilation.

3. Damaged Flashing

Flashing is material that protects some of the more vulnerable parts of your roof. It’s often placed around chimneys, skylights, and any places where the roof meets the wall. Most flashing consists of thin strips of galvanized steel or aluminum.

Though flashing is tough by nature, it’s not invulnerable. For example, daily exposure to the elements can cause it to deteriorate. Improper installation or repairs can also lead to widespread problems.

4. Sagging Roof Lines

Unlike the other warning signs on this list, a saggy roof is easy to notice. This is more than an aesthetic issue — it’s an indicator of structural collapse. If your roof can’t handle a certain weight load, it’s likely to sag in different places.

A flawed gutter system is another common reason for a sagging roof. Again, this may lead to moisture infiltrating the support structure and the wood deck.

5. Granules in the Gutters

If you’ve installed a new roof recently, you may start seeing some loose granules in the gutters. This is no reason for concern, as new shingles often shed granules. If the roof is not new, however, you may need to look into replacing it.

See, the main purpose of these granules is to protect your roof from heat exposure. If they’re falling off in droves, the quality of your shingles will suffer. In this scenario, your best bet is to contact a professional.

When Does a Roof Need to be Replaced?

Other than the above examples, you may start seeing other signs you need to replace your roof. These include plant growth, increased heating bills, sunlight in the attic, and so on. Either way, you should deal with this as soon as possible.

Want to know more about when does a roof need to be replaced? Interested in making your home more convenient to live in? Take a look at our Home Improvement section!