So, what really are the signs it’s time for a roof replacement on your home? This article will go through the different points and things to look out for so that you know what it is time for your home to get a new roof replacement. Having a well maintained roof is important when you are a homeowner or a property owner because roofs are a crucially important feature that protects your home or property from the outside elements of the world.
Other reasons to keep your roofing well maintained include: to preserve the property value, keep the energy efficiency high, preventing any extra costs in unnecessary repairs, extendending your roofs lifespan as well as preventing any potential health hazards that a poorly maintained or damaged roof may cause with potential water infiltration leading to mould growth.
Key Takeaways
Major signs that may indicate that your home or property’s roof needs replacing may include:
- Your roof’s age: if your roof is approaching or has exceeded its expected life span.
- Visible damage such as cracks or slipped tiles.
- Leaks, especially persistent leaks after heavy rain or snow.
- Sagging, this can be an indication of structural issues or damage, which need to be sought attention for immediately.
- Mould or moss growth, this can be due to water infiltration and lead to decay.
- Visible daylight. Enough said with this one, if you are able to see daylight through the roof boards in your attic or loft space then immediate help and advice should been seen for repairs.
Water Damage in the Upstairs or Attic
Water damage, visible daylight through the roof and damp insulation are all worrying signs that your roof might need replacing quickly.
Water damage, which can often be seen by any interior water staining in your home/property, mould growth or even any structural elements that may have been compromised. All of these listed issues previously are all indicators that there has been an infiltration in the roofline of your home or property, these signs are of water infiltration. Consistent leaks can not only risk the integrity of your home or property’s structure but the leaks and water infiltration can also lead to health issues for the people living inside due to any mould growth within your home or property.
Having visible daylight that you can see through the roof boards of your home is a very clear indication of gaps and deterioration in your home or property’s roofing structure. These gaps and deteriorations can compromise your roof and its ability to provide proper insulation to your home and protect it against the outside elements. Gaps and deterioration in the roof boards can lead to higher energy costs as your home will struggle to maintain a consistent indoor temperature.
Damp insulation can also further impact these issues. When the insulation in your roof becomes wet it does lose its effectiveness which again, can lead to higher energy costs and lower energy efficiency. It can also cause rotting and decaying in the roof's structure. All of these signs display an urgent need for a roof replacement in your home to restore the roofs structural integrity, your roofs energy efficiency and to keep you and your loved ones safe from any effects and damage that water infiltration can cause to yours or their health.
The Roof Has Outlived Its Lifespan
The different roofing materials that you can choose from (click here to see our article about different roofing materials and which may be best for you and your home)come with different levels of longevity and lifespans and understanding these lifespans is an important thing for home owners to be able to do. An example of roofing lifespans include asphalt shingles. These typically only last between 20-25 years, whereas metal roofing can have a lifespan of anywhere between 40-70 years and even more impressive on the lifespan range are slate tiles with a lifespan of up to and even over 100 years! The importance of having a roof replacement at the right time is all about preserving the structural integrity of your home and its roof and to preserve the functions of the roof. When roofing materials age they become more susceptible to wear, deterioration and become more vulnerable to the weather and the elements of the outside. This means that ageing roofs are more prone to leaks, damages and are more likely to reduce the energy efficiency in your home which can potentially cause you costly repairs and compromise your home's safety.
Getting the roof replaced in a timely manner allows for you as the homeowner or property owner to to stay ahead of the issues that may present themselves and also prevent the escalation of them and the escalation of the damage to make sure that your roof continues to serve you with the proper protection your home needs. Getting your roofing replaced can also help to avoid other problems such as water damage inside your home, mould growth and damp insulation. Roof replacements when they are needed are not only good to keep you safe from structural damage and any health hazards but also contributes to your home's overall curb appeal. Regular inspections and adhering to the recommended replacement timelines for your specific roofing material are important things that should be done by you as the homeowner to make sure your roof stays intact and protects your home.
The Roof Sags
A sagging roof is a big indication of a potentially very severe structural issue in your home or properties roofing. The sagging of the roof can suggest that the roofings supporting structure like the rafters, trusses or any decking are undergoing a lot of stress of decay. A sagging roof can be caused by different things including prolonged exposure to weather elements, bad structural design, water damage or the gathering of heavy snow or even debris.
Structural issues do compromise the roof's capability to hold its own weight and any additional weight loads put onto it. The sagging may appear unevenly which can end up leading to an uneven roofline, which can further stress certain other areas of the roof's structure. This further stress can lead to accelerated wear and tear on the roofing material and increases the risks of leaks and increases the risk of damage to the interior of the home.
Moss, Mould, or Fungi Growth
Let’s talk about moss, mould and fungi growth. When you notice that there is a presence of moss, mould or fungi on your roof, it is not just an aesthetic concern, it can be a sign that there are underlying issues with your roofing structure. The organisms thrive in a damp and shaded area. It can indicate that there is moisture trapped inside your roof. There are a few different ways that this mould growth can be problematic, they include:
- Trapped moisture: moss and fungi often trap the moisture against the surface of your roof and the prolonged moisture exposure can end up compromising the integrity of your roof’s materials over time.
- Structural damage: when moss and fungi grow, they can grow into any small cracks and crevices of your roof. In time this can lead to potential structural damage and it can even weaken the roof’s foundation.
- Reducing lifespan: moss, mould and fungi can accelerate and increase the ageing process of your roof. The moss, mould and fungi can cause early and premature wear and team damage that will shorten the overall lifespan of your roofing.
- Health hazards: mould, moss and fungi growth, mould growth in particular can pose risks to the house occupants health. Mould spores can enter your home's ventilation system and it can lead you to having respiratory issues or other health issues and concerns.
To keep on top of this issue and make sure that it doesn't occur in your home regular roofing maintenance is important. This maintenance includes cleaning off the moss and fungi as well as fixing any underlying problems that may cause the moisture buildup. It is important to speak to roofing professionals to look at and assess the extent of the issue and decide what the best course of action for protecting your roof, home and yourself would be.
Curling or Buckling Shingles
Curling or buckling shingles are both clear indicators that your roofing system is damaged and may no longer be able to protect your home properly. Some of the pointers that this issue may be concerning for you include exposure to the elements, water infiltration, reduced insulation, structural damages & mould growth. Curling and buckling shingles create gaps and spaces in your roof which leaves it open and vulnerable to the elements. Rain, snow and sunlight is now able to get into your roof and it can end up causing damage to the interior structure of your roof and it can speed up wear and tear of your roofing. These gaps can also increase the risk of water infiltration in your home which opens your living spaces up to potential damage to the interior home structure, ceilings, walls and it can even end up damaging your personal belongings if left for long enough. Damaged shingles can also compromise the insulation in your roof. This will end up leading to increased energy costs for you as your home will struggle to keep a consistent temperature. Over more time the water infiltration can lead to structural damage as well. It can affect the wooden components of your roof and compromise your roof ability to protect your home. The presence of water in your roofing system, caused by the curling and buckling shingles creates a way for an environment that mould, moss and fungi thrive in as mentioned earlier.
Missing Shingles or Granules
The visual signs of your roof ageing and deteriorating can vary depending on the type of roofing material you have. Some common indicators that your roof is showing signs of wear and tear include:
- Curling or buckling shingles. This is where the roofing is curling at the edges or corners of asphalt shingles and buckling is when shingles appear to be warped in any way.
- Missing or damaged shingles. This is when you have obvious gaps or areas in the roofing structure where the shingles are missing, cracked or chipped.
- Granule loss. This occurs when there is an accumulation of granules in the guttering or downspouts, your shingles may appear to be bare or discoloured because of the granule loss too.
- Water stains. There may be water stains or discolouration on ceilings or walls inside your home, the paint may also start to bubble or peel inside your home.
Regular roofing inspections conducted by a professional can help you to identify these potential visual signs early on and allow for timely repairs and/or replacement before any more extensive damage is caused. You should keep in mind that specific signs may vary depending on the roofing material and also environmental conditions. If you do notice any of these indicators and visual signs we advise that you consult with a roofing professional for a proper assessment.
Consideration for Selling Your Home
The condition of your roof is important in determining the market value of your home. A well-maintained roof will not only enhance the curb appeal of your home but it also shows the general health of your property. Any potential buyers can see that a new or well-preserved roof as a valuable investment and a future expense avoided. On the other hand a deteriorating roof can lower a home’s market value. Issues such as leaks, damaged shingles or structural issues that can raise concerns about your property’s integrity and maybe even deter potential buyers or lead to a lower house price.
Preventing Costly Repairs
A timely roof replacement is important to prevent any costly roofing repairs you may encounter and it will help you to preserve the structural integrity of your home.if left unaddressed an ageing and/or deteriorating roof can lead to more and more problems, this could be from water infiltration to compromised insulation. By actively replacing your roof, you can prevent these issues and also avoid the other collateral damage they can cause. Water leaks can damage ceilings, walls and potentially even foundations in your home, which result in expensive repairs that could have been avoided with a timely roofing replacement. Investing in a new roof doesn’t just protect your home but it also adds more value to your property. Our advice is to not wait for small problems to escalate further. A proactive approach to getting a roofing replacement is important to safeguard your home and protect yourself in the long run.
Avoiding Structural Damage
Delaying roof replacements can lead to severe structural damage to your home. When a roof ages, it does become more susceptible to wear and tear, which creates vulnerabilities in your roofing that can compromise the whole structure of your roof. One of the main risks to your roofing is water infiltration. A deteriorating roof is prone to leaking, allowing water to get into the roof deck, rafter and truss. If it is left unchecked and untreated the moisture can lead to the wood from your roofing structure rotting away.
Prolonged presence of moisture creates the ideal environment for mould, moss and fungi growth. These can further damage your roof and roofing materials and also pose serious health risks and compromise the quality of your indoor air.
A failing roof can lead to the insulation in your roof to break down, resulting in increased energy bills for you as your home will begin to struggle to maintain a consistent temperature inside your home.
The consequences of delaying a roof replacement when it is needed can extend beyond the surface, impacting the structural integrity, safety and the overall value of your home. Looking at roofing issues quickly and efficiently and investing in a timely replacement is important to maintain your roof as a structurally sound and comfortable living environment in your home.
Additional Warning Signs to Look For
Keep an eye out for additional warning signs that signal that you may need a roofing replacement. Loose or missing shingle tabs are a red flag. They compromise the roof’s ability to protect the rest of the home. Cracked shingles can indicate a potential water infiltration and structural damage. Heavy leaking which can be seen from water stains on the ceilings and/or walls needs urgent attention to prevent further damage from occurring.
Bald spots in your roofing where granules have worn away can leave your roof vulnerable to the outside elements, which makes your roof not able to keep your home safe as effectively. You can inspect the roof's overall appearance for areas that are sagging which can indicate to you if there are underlying structural issues in your roofing system.
You can also check for damaged flashing around chimneys, vents or any skylights, as damaged flashing can lead to water infiltration. Keeping an eye on your energy bills can also help you to detect any issues with your roof as a sudden increase in your energy bills can suggest that your roof may be deteriorating.
Regular inspections and quick action when you notice any issues can help you to prevent any further damage and make sure your roof continues to give you the proper protection you and your home need.
When to Act on These Symptoms
Addressing issues with your roof quickly and promptly is important to do as it will prevent further damage from occurring and prevent any costly repairs further down the line. When you notice symptoms or warning signs of roofing damage like missing shingles, missing tiles, small tears in your rubber or any leakages it is important to act fast. Ignoring these signs can lead to having water infiltration, structural damage and mould growth in your home.
The importance of doing something about roofing issues quickly comes from the knowledge that small problems can escalate quickly, especially in weather conditions such as heavy rain and snow. Something you may think is a little leak can very quickly turn into major structural issues of your roofing, which we all know by now will cost you more in repairs costs than getting it sorted and fixed when you first spot the issue.
Semi-regular roofing inspections are important, especially after severe weather, to help you spot potential issues in your roofing early on.
Selecting the Right Roofing Material
When you are having a re-roof on your home it is important to choose the right roofing materials that are going to be protecting your home. Some of the features you should be looking for in a roofing material is durability, longevity and also efficiency. Two of the most common and highly suggested options for roofing materials are EPDM rubber and Tiled roofing.
EPDM rubber roofing is made from a synthetic rubber compound. It is known for it’s high durability, flexibility and weather resistant properties. EPDM rubber roofing is the best choice for flat or very low sloped roofs, this is because it is able to stop ponding or pooling of water after heavy rain and withstand the harshest of weather conditions.
EPDM rubber roofing calls for very little maintenance and is a highly cost effective option in the lng run as EPDM rubber has a lifespan of 50 years+! Here at GM Roofing we offer a 20 year guarantee on all of our EPDM installations meaning that if you do have an issue, we will come out and repair it for you at no extra cost!
Tiled roofing is aesthetically different to the EPDM rubber roofing, giving your home a more classic and aesthetic option for roofing. Tiled roofing is an umbrella for many different styles including clay tiles, concrete tiles and slate tiles to name a few. Tiled roofing is known for its durability, fire resistant properties and increasing the energy efficiency of your home.
The tiles give you great insulation in your home meaning your home is kept cooler in the summer but warmer in the winter reducing your energy costs and saving you money! If you choose a tiled roof for your home you have the choice of versatility with the design letting you pick from many colour options, shapes and different styles and finishes to suit your home and the look you want to go for!
At the end of the day the choice between EPDM rubber and tiled roofing can depend on different qualities of your roof like the slope of your roof, your climate and the budget you have.
The Investment in Your Home's Longevity
Investing in a new roof on your home gives you many benefits in the long run. A new roof provides your home with protection you can rely on. It can protect you from the outside elements and water damage as well as mould growth. A new roof also helps to boost your property value and makes it a worthwhile and valuable investment. But most importantly, a new roof brings you the utmost peace of mind to know that your home is safe and secure. Providing you with improved energy efficiency and long-term durability.
Conclusion
To round off this article, recognising the signs that it’s time for a roof replacement is important. Not only to maintain yours and your family’s safety but to maintain the security of your home and increase the value of your home. From a slightly loose shingle to heavy and extensive leaking, these warning signs should alert you and kick you into taking quick action to getting your roof and roofing structure replaced!
At GM Roofing, we understand the importance of a reliable and efficient team coming to complete your roofing installation. Our experienced teams of professionals and their commitment to quality, strive to exceed your expectations and make sure that you have a hassle free installation and that you are happy with the job. Call or email us today to schedule an appointment for one of our surveyors to come to your property and produce a quote for any roofing work your home needs.
