It’s easy to track how old your roof is if you’re the original owner of the house, but if you bought a home and the owner wasn’t forthcoming about when the roof was last replaced, or you simply forgot to ask, there are signs you can look for that can give you a good idea. While you might still need professional roofing inspections to determine whether your roof is due for repairs or a replacement, it’s never a bad thing to know more about it yourself first.
However, there are other ways to determine that your roof is getting old and in need of some repairs according to Sterling Exteriors. Recognizing the signs you need a new roof listed below will help you determine if it’s time for roof repairs or even a total replacement.
Signs of an Aging and Old Roof
- Curling of Shingles
As the roof ages, the layers holding together shingles begin to peel away from each other. Shingles that are curled or look warped are a classic sign of old roof age. If most of your shingles are curled, your roof is vulnerable to leaks and other types of damage. You’ll want to replace any old shingles immediately to keep your home protected. Should you get a new roof? That will depend on the extent of the damage and how much needs to be replaced.
- Blistering Paint
Blistering is defined as the formation of bubbles, from minuscule to large-sized, in the exterior paint film. It is the direct result of localized loss of adhesion and the subsequent lifting of the existing protective layer of coating from the underlying surface or roofing material. This typically happens when small sections of the paint open up due to exposure to harsh elements and allow water in which will soon build up in the pockets.
- Mold Damage
Unwanted greenery and vegetation on your roof is a big indicator that it’s time to replace. Mold, mildew, moss, and algae can start growing on the corners of your roof’s surface. This means that their roots are digging into the shingles of the roof, leaving them open for seepage and leaking into the house itself. As those plants continue to grow, the roots will dig deeper into the roof, dislodging shingles and widening gaps in your roof boards.
- Cracked Sealant
A sealant or caulking material is applied between seams to seal off joints or gaps in the roof where rainwater or melted snow can seep through. It is necessary to protect your home from adverse weather events. However, the sealant gradually becomes brittle after years of exposure to rain, sun and hail. This makes it more likely to crack and break apart, leaving the sealant incapable of keeping moisture out. Fortunately, a roof inspection with a trusted contractor can help you with this situation.
- Sun Shines Through Roof Boards
If your attic is illuminated without electricity, you have a problem. If sunshine can get through your roof boards, then moisture can, too. Settling from age, moisture expanding and shrinking the wood, and damage are all viable reasons why your roofing boards aren’t so snug anymore.
- Dark Roof Spots
If your roof is concrete or brick tile, the dark spots are likely caused by moss or algae that grows over time. This might not actually mean that your roof needs to be replaced since it might not actually be causing serious damage, but it will make your roof look more dilapidated.
However, if your roof is a metal one, these dark spots can’t mean anything good. Usually, the problem you have with dark spots on a metal roof means rust, and it’s only a matter of time before your roof is severely damaged.
- Leaks and Water Damage
Water damage is a classic sign you need new roofing because your roof is not doing its job. This is most likely due to the protective layering on shingles becoming worn down over time. Should you see any water damage in your attic or on your shingles, it may be time to replace your roof.
- Missing Granules
Granules are designed to protect the asphalt coating on shingles from sunlight and water. They’re made up of crushed rock, slag, slate, tile, or porcelain. Over time, these granules become loose and begin to fall off, creating bald spots on your roof.
Additionally, your potential roof age is significantly lowered—it’s like being diagnosed with a terminal disease, and is a clear sign you need a new roof.
- High Energy Bills
The roof contributes to the insulation of your home. This means that the insulating properties of your roofing system weaken as it ages, creating a negative impact on the indoor temperature. An aging roof pushes heating and cooling devices to work twice as hard as before to ensure comfort inside the home, causing the energy bills to increase over time.
Aging Roof and Insurance
Age is not your roof’s friend. Unless it’s made of a material with famed longevity, a roof depreciates with each year; many insurers won’t cover those that are over a quarter-century old. The truth is, insurance companies feel much more comfortable with newer roofs and don’t want to open themselves up to more risk than they want to. However, they can increase premiums for these “riskier” policies and build up a stash for when those claims start rolling in.
For your roofing needs, turn to Sterling Exteriors. We are the leading exterior home improvement contractor in the local area. Call (513) 496-0976 or fill out our contact form for a free, no-obligation quote. We serve homeowners in Newtown, Loveland, and Cincinnati, OH.
