As a homeowner, it is essential to know the warning signs of potential roof problems. There are many reasons you should periodically inspect your roof, but most importantly if it shows signs of replacement.
Most people don’t want to think about this possibility until they see evidence that their home’s roof needs repair or replacement. However, you can avoid costly and time-consuming repairs by proactively inspecting your roof. In this article, you’ll learn signs that show it’s time to replace metal roof.
1. When The Shingles Start Curling Up And Popping Off
If you notice that the shingles are starting to curl up and pop off, your roof needs replacement. The shingle’s job is to keep the rain out. But if they start breaking down, then water will inevitably get in your home.
This could lead to mold growth on all surfaces throughout your house and cause health problems like breathing difficulties or severe allergies.
2. Standing Water In Gutters And Downspouts
Standing water is caused by improper roof drainage. The problem might not even be with your roof but rather a blocked gutter or drainpipe. If left untreated for too long, the leaks may worsen.
3. Leaky Areas Near Window Wells
If you notice leaking near window wells, that’s an indication your roof needs replacement. A common cause for leaks in these areas is a lack of flashing around the window well sealant.
The seals may have been damaged when installed or cracked over time due to weathering and fluctuations in temperature. If not repaired promptly, water will leak through joints between siding boards, penetrate walls and cause a significant damage.
Unfortunately, you may discover the damage when it’s already too late. This type of issue is common in older homes though they occur in newer ones too.
4. Rusting Metal Flashings
A roof needs to be installed from the bottom up. All of the flashing should be in place before any other material goes up along with it. The purpose of this is to direct water away from your house and keep out moisture if there’s some type of leak or storm damage.
If there are rusted metal flashings on the roof, it may be time to replace your roof. Rusting metals can lead to leaks in roofs and seepages into walls of homes or other buildings below the leaky roof.
5. Missing Granules
If you notice bald spots on your roof, it could be a sign that granules are missing. This can cause leakage and water damage to the home or building below. Therefore, it’s essential to find out if these spots need replacing before they worsen.
6. It’s Lasted For 20 Years Or More
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) recommends replacing a roof that’s been in service for 20 years with a new one.
They note the following signs as indicators: sagging or wrinkled shingles, missing granules on asphalt composition shingles, and discoloration along eaves resulting from rust stains caused by metal flashing corroding behind the chimney crowns.
7. Old And Worn Out Roof
You may be a roof replacement candidate if your roof’s original coating appears to be worn out. Old roofs are usually faded and weathered. In addition, plant life or dirt may make the shingles and roof appear older than it is. So, you need to inspect your roof and find out whether it looks old because of debris or wear.
8. Streaks On The Roof Decking
If you notice long dark streaks running down the roof decking, this may be a sign that your shingles are loose. When they come off in large chunks, they may cause leaks and other structural problems to your property.
Contact a qualified professional and let them examine your roof for any issues if you see these signs of wear and tear.
9. Exposed Nails
If you notice exposed nails, it’s time to replace your roof. Old nails coming up means that there’s damage on top of the roof surface. If you don’t repair your roof promptly, it will leak and cost you more.
10. A Saggy Roof
A droopy and saggy roof can cause untold damages to your home. It may damage your ceiling and compromise your safety. Also, it may lead to mold growth on the walls below.
Inspect any visible areas of drywall near ceilings in lower levels (e.g., basement) and look for grayish stains from leaky pipes or rotted wood framing around windows and other openings into attics. If you’ve noticed any of these issues, have them repaired right away.
11. Moss Growth
Moss growth on the roof is often an indication that there may be leaks and other problems on your home’s exterior. Unfortunately, surface patches can’t always protect a leak from becoming worse over time. You need to get professional help to determine if water is causing this issue or something else.
Moss isn’t just unsightly, but it grows where there’s moisture and provides evidence that water has been seeping through cracks, crevices, or vents for some time. It may also mean that the underlying surface could have more severe issues.
12. Beams Of Light Coming Through The Roof.
Beams of light often occur because of a hole in the roof. Over time, moss and lichens may grow over a hole making it hard to identify. If left untreated, the beams of light could do damage to furniture or carpeting.
To prevent this from happening, take the time to do a thorough inspection of your roof. From the inspection, take note of the areas with holes. If they aren’t serious, you can repair them yourself or call a professional.
Conclusion
Living in a house with an old roof can be demeaning. A roof is a significant investment, and you should take care of it. Evaluate the state of your home by looking for these signs. If you see any of them, you can contact a relevant professional and have them repaired. But if they can’t be repaired, plan to replace your roof. That way, you’ll maintain the comfort of your home.