Here are several warning signs to look for if your roof is getting old.
In the New Orleans area, rainfall is as common as the potholes in our streets. Many homeowners may spot leaks in their ceiling during heavy downpours that would lead them to call in a roofer. Certain factors may only require simple roof repair. However, other variables will require a bit more attention and even roof replacement.
Before getting your hands full with a new roof, consider these helpful tips:
First and foremost, homeowners should have an idea about the age of their roof. According to Angieslist, the average roof lifespan is about 20-25 years. Homeowners should also be familiar with the state of their roof. For example, was an old roof removed, is there only one layer of shingles, and how is the ventilation of your roof?
If the shingles on your roof are curling, buckling, or even crumbling this may be a sign that a new roof is in order. If you notice this, it may mean that your shingles are on their last breath of life. Heavy weather could also end up removing shingles entirely. If you notice shingles go missing, you should contact a roofer to see about patching your roof up. This could end up leading to further problems if it isn’t handled.
While cleaning the gutters, another thing to keep in mind are shingle granules. Roofs will tend to lose more shingle granules at the end of their lifespan. When the shingles on your roof start to deteriorate, they break up into what may appear to be a coarse sandy material. You may even notice granules around your yard or landscaping.
A sure sign that homeowners may need a new roof is if they are up in their attic and notice daylight coming through the roof boards. A roofer should definitely be contacted at this point. You may also notice signs of water inside your attic after a rainstorm.
Replacing your roof can be an expensive endeavor. Make sure you take these precautions when reaching out to a roofer. There may be instances where your roof can be fixed without needing to replace it altogether. However, if your roof is well over a couple of decades old, it might be time to start considering a replacement.
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