Although it doesn’t have to be done too often, replacing your roof is a standard piece of home maintenance you’ll have to deal with at some point. What many homeowners are unsure of, though, is when they need to replace their roofs. Here are four easy ways to determine when it’s time for a new roof.
You’re Starting to See Leakage
The most obvious sign that it’s time to replace your roof is leakage during rainstorms. If you’re noticing drips from several spots on your ceiling during heavy rains, it’s an almost certain sign that you need a new roof. If you’re only seeing water infiltration in one spot, you may be able to get away with patching the roof. Leaks in several spots, however, mean that your old roof is past due for replacement.
You’re Seeing Shingles Come Down
Over time, shingles on your roof will come loose and blow off in high winds. If you’re beginning to find shingles in your yard, it’s probably time to replace the roof. Although shingles can come loose from newer roofs in some cases, seeing more than one or two is a good sign that the roof as a whole has reached the end of its lifespan. If you see shingles fall off, give your roof a closer inspection, it will help you get a better idea of what to do next.
It’s Been 15 or More Years Since Your Last Roof Replacement
All roofing materials have a limited life expectancy. The standard shingles used on most homes usually begin to wear out around the 15 year mark. Although roofs can last longer, especially in favorable climates, you should start to keep a careful eye out for damage and deterioration after about 15 years. When you start to see damage in a roof this old or older, it’s best to simply replace the entire roof instead of trying to patch it up. It’s a bigger initial investment, but it will save you money in the long run.
You’re Getting Ready to Sell the House
In some cases, it can be a good idea to replace a roof prematurely when you’re getting ready to sell your home. If it’s been a while since the house had a new roof, replacing it before listing can help to increase its value. Like most improvements intended to raise the value of a home, this one is heavily dependent on the general condition of your home. Carefully consider the cost of replacing the roof and the value increase you’ll see as a result to be sure you’re getting a good return on your investment.
These are four of the most common indicators that replacing your roof may be a good idea. If you aren’t sure whether it’s time to replace the roof or not, consider having a qualified roofing contractor inspect it to give you a better idea of its overall condition. While often you can tell you need to replace your roof, sometimes problems can remain hidden. Consult with experts to find the best way forward for your home.
