5 Signs It Is Time to Replace Your Roof

If you're a homeowner, one of the most important things you can do to protect your home is to maintain your roof. A good roof is essential to keep out the elements and preserve the comfort of your home.



However, even the best roofs eventually need replacement. In this article, we'll discuss some of the signs that indicate it's time to replace your roof. You can ensure that your roof is always in good condition and ready to keep your home safe and dry if you pay attention to these five signs.

1. Shingle Damage and Deterioration

If you see shingle or roof granules, it's a good bet that your roof has begun to wear away. Granules from shingles indicate that the roof has lost its protective surface and can no longer effectively keep out the elements.

Also, look for signs of shingle damage, which include cupping, curling or clawing of the shingles. Cupped and curled shingles look very similar, as the ends of the shingles peel away from the courses below them and begin to point upward. Clawed shingles occur when the center lifts while the ends stay in contact with the roof.

Chunks of shingles in your yard after windstorms can indicate that the shingles have begun to deteriorate and break down, which can lead to further structural damage and leaks.

Additionally, if you can see cracks or tears in the shingles from the ground, it indicates that the roof has become weaker from prolonged thermal exposure. Thermal exposure generates expansion and contraction cycles that damage the shingles.

Finally, missing, dented or worn areas, and hail damage can all be additional indicators of roof damage that necessitates a roof replacement.

2. Damaged Flashing

Replace your roof if you find any cracks or breaks in the flashing around vents, skylights, and chimneys. If the flashing comprises roof cement or tar in an older home, it may be a good idea to upgrade to a metal flashing system.

3. Roof Sag and Leaks

A sagging roof highlights a structural issue due to severe water damage or broken rafters. Also, apparent water damage signifies that the roof can no longer contribute towards the protection of your house.

Look in the attic to spot any potential signs of leaks. You should not be able to see any daylight through the roof boards. Stains and streaks on the roof boards or moisture in the insulation will highlight leaks. If you cannot fix the leaks, it is time to replace your roof.

4. Moss Growth

Moss, mold, or fungi on your roof can trap moisture underneath and cause significant damage to the roof over time. Also, moss growth can damage roofing materials and provide entry points for pests, which might further weaken the roof and make it structurally unsound.

If you find the presence of these organisms on your roof, address the issue as soon as possible to minimize the damage. Cleaning the growth off might help if they have not spread far or ingrained themselves deep into the roofing material. However, you might need to fully replace your roof as the recommended option to ensure the roof remains strong and stable if the moss digs its roots deep into the roof.

5. Age

Consider a roof replacement if you discover that it is close to the typical lifespan for its material. For example, asphalt shingle and wood shake roofs last for around 20 years. Replace roofs laid on top of preexisting shingles after 20 years. Other types of roofs vary in their lifespan. Metal roofs can last for more than four decades, while clay and concrete tile roofs can last up to a century.

Contact us at JM General Contractor LLC for roof replacement services. We offer our services in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware.