There are a lot of variables that can affect your roof’s durability and performance. Your roof may experience extreme temperatures, severe weather, and simply become too old to function well, adding up to general wear and tear. In this case you may even be considered lucky, because the roof is your only problem. Sometimes a damaged roof can be the consequence of the problems in other areas of your home, like foundation issues. If your roof is damaged, it can cause leaks, collapse, and may even decrease the value of your house.
If you regularly inspect your roof, you may be able to check any issues, such as a leaky roof or peeling shingles. These problems can start as minor ones but later become significant problems. The good news is all of these problems can easily be prevented by getting a new roof. So, how can you tell if your old roof may need replacing?
You’ll know your old roof may need replacing if the following things are happening.
1. If your shingles are buckled or curled.
If your roof is aged, there’s a good chance that your shingles have become curled or buckled. It may occur to you like there’s too much stuff in your attic, and it is forcing the nails to be pushed up and out of your roof’s decking.
You should check for buckled or curled shingles if your roof has become bumpy or has sections that are uneven.
2. If you see a growth of algae or streaking tar.
If bacteria are eating away your shingles’ waterproofing properties, you may see algae growth and tar streaking. The shingles may have fillers like limestones, which algae love to eat away.
You can evaluate your roof for any tar or algae by trying to look for any area of your roof that is discolored. Tar is black, and algae is a shade of green.
3. If there are missing granules.
Missing granules can significantly affect your roof’s weatherproofing properties. This means that when it rains, you may end up catching water that is dripping all over you.
You can check for missing granules by checking your gutters for any build-up of granules and if there are any in the downspout splash pan.
4. If moisture or mold is existing.
When your attic is not properly vented, warm air can rise and get trapped in your attic. Condensation then develops on your roof’s underside, which may cause rust on your nails and mold growth.
You can evaluate for any moisture or mold on your vents, as that’s where they’re most likely be. Mold looks like dark spots in small sizes but large numbers.
5. If there are missing shingles.
When you have missing shingles, you have an open pathway that water can quickly enter to get into your home. This means that you’ll end up having to catch water every time it rains.
You can check for any missing shingles by simply looking at your roof.
6. If daylight can pass through your roof boards.
If daylight can easily pass through the boards of your roof, this means that heat can quickly accumulate in your attic. If heat accumulates in your attic, chances are your energy bills will rise. This can also mean that water can pass through your roof.
You can evaluate for any daylight passing through just by looking to see if you see any light streaking where it’s not supposed to be.
7. If the temperature in your attic is different from the temperature outside.
The temperature in your attic should be the same as the temperature outside. However, if you have insufficient ventilation, air can’t correctly circulate in and out of your attic.
You can check for temperature difference by checking whether your attic is hotter or colder than the outdoors.
8. If there are ice dams.
Ice dams are ridges of ice that form at your roof’s edge. This prevents snow from melting and draining off your roof. If there’s too much water accumulating, it can back up in your home.
You should evaluate for ice dams if during winter season there’s a build-up of ice on your roof’s edge or icicles are forming.
Don’t Take Your Roof for Granted
There’s a common misconception about your roof; a lot of people think that as long as your house is still standing, your roof should be just fine. However, your roof protects you from the elements, so you should give it much care. If you need help, we here at Roofing Contractors St. Louis can provide you a hand.
Matt Tennant
Matt Tennant is a writer contributing pieces for John Beal Roofing. His passion for his craft allows him to be able to write unique and creative pieces for his readers. He strives to make sure his pieces are informative and entertaining, given his fascination with his topics. He likes to paint during his free time.