4 Major Signs of an Old Roof
…And that You Need to Replace Your Roof Soon
Every homeowner will face this question at some point: “Do I need to replace my roof?”
The signs that your roof needs to be replaced are not always obvious from ground level. If you’re unsure whether your roof needs to be replaced — or if it has a few more years of life left in it, keep reading.
Here, we share the four major signs of an old roof that needs to be replaced.
1. The Age of Your Roof
How long does a roof last? There are a number of factors that influence how a roof ages.
- How the roof was installed
- Type of roof
- Quality of materials
- Your local climate
- Whether the roof has sustained previous damage
On average, and depending on the material, a roof can last 25‒50 years. The age of roof materials is usually the best gauge in determining when your roof needs to be replaced. For example, three-tab asphalt shingles only last 10‒15 years but metal roofs can sometimes last more than 50 years.
If your current roof was installed before you bought your home, a roof replacement company can inspect your roof to determine its age. You can also contact the original homeowner through your real estate agent to ask about prior roof replacement services. Keep an eye on your neighbor’s roofs too. If they’re replacing their roofs, it may be time to replace yours!
2. Curling, Cracked, or Missing Shingles
One or two missing or cracked shingles are easily replaced. However, if you continue to notice damaged or missing shingles, you may need to replace your roof. A professional roofer can inspect your roof to see if there is more damage than you can see on your own.
StaDry Roofing and Restoration offers free roof inspections upon request.
Age, extreme temperatures, wind, sun exposure, and critters can all cause your roof shingles to crack, curl, or break off. While this is often due to general wear and tear, regular roof maintenance can prolong the life of your roof.
- Clear leaves, branches, and debris after a storm and as needed.
- Clean moss, mold, mildew, and roof stains when visible.
- Look for signs of missing or broken shingles after a storm.
Too many cracked or missing shingles will compromise your roof’s integrity and life span. It will also impact your roof’s ability to protect your home from water intrusion.
Keep your loved ones safe. Experts recommend seasonal roof inspections to ensure your home stays protected.
Call StaDry to schedule yours TODAY!
3. Water Damage
Water intrusion is the most immediate sign you need to schedule a roof replacement. While a roof covered with green moss may look charming in a story book, in reality, it means your roof is not able to prevent water from seeping through.
Of course, water damage can occur long before it shows signs of mold, mildew, or other growth. Here’s how to tell your roof is no longer protecting your home from water and moisture.
- Leaks, water damage, wet insulation, or rotting wood in your attic
- Ceiling stains or wet areas
- A roof that sags or slopes abnormally
- Visible mold or mildew
- Musty odors
- Cracked roof vent boots
Over time, your roof will lose its ability to protect your home from water intrusion and cause expensive damage to your home that goes well beyond a roof replacement. If you discover any of these signs, call an experienced roof replacement company near me today!
4. Granules in Your Gutters
Mineral granules are important to your roof. They protect shingles from UV light and common weather conditions. Losing too many shingles will prevent your shingles from doing their job. If your roof looks good, but you notice an increasing number of granules in your gutters, it’s time for a roof replacement.
It’s normal to find some granules in your gutters, especially if you have recently installed a new roof or experienced weathering. The rate shingles will naturally lose granules depends on the quality of the shingles and environmental factors. If, however, you’re seeing a lot more granules in your gutters — or washing to the ground — it’s a sign of roof damage.
Call your local roof experts to learn if the granules in your gutter are cause for concern. Often they’re a sign of an aging roof.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Roof Replacement for an Old Roof?
So, you have an old roof. Will your insurance cover a roof replacement? In some cases of damage, the answer is yes.
Don’t let the cost of a new roof deter you from protecting your home. Whether you decide to replace your roof or install a new roof over your old roof, there are often coverage or payment options.
The first step is to call a local, reputable, honest, and experienced roofer. To avoid scam companies or roofers that do shoddy work, it’s always important to check references, as well as online ratings with BBB, Houzz , Google, and more before hiring a roofer.
Before you search “roof replacement company near me,” give us a call! StaDry Roofing and Restoration in Wilson, Raleigh, Greenville, Wilmington, and eastern North Carolina will provide you with a FREE inspection and roof replacement quote!
Once your roofing expert determines the cause and cost, contact your insurance agent to see if a roof replacement is covered in part or whole. You may find that some carriers will even offer a discount on your homeowners insurance premium for replacing your roof!
Are you seeing signs your roof needs to be replaced?
Visit www.stadryroofingnc.com to schedule your FREE inspection and get a replacement quote today!
