The roof is one of the most important components of your home; it protects you from the elements and keeps your family safe and dry. That’s why it’s so important to keep your roof in good condition. But roofs don’t last forever, and eventually, every homeowner will have to face the decision of whether or not it’s time to replace their roof. Here are four signs that it might be your time for a new roof.
The Roof is Over 20 Years Old
The average lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof is about 20 to 25 years, so if your roof is approaching or has exceeded that age, it might be time to start thinking about if you need a replacement. Of course, some roofs will last longer than others; if your roof was installed properly and has been well-maintained, it could last up to about 30 years or more. Conversely, a poorly installed or poorly maintained roof might only last somewhere around 15 years or less. If you’re not sure how old your roof is, you can check the records from when your home was built or ask a qualified roofing contractor, someone like Heavenly Roofing LLC, to take a look for signs it’s worn out.
Replacing your roof is a big decision and a significant investment, so you’ll want to be sure that it’s really necessary before proceeding. If your roof is showing signs of age or damage, such as missing or damaged shingles, leaks, or structural issues, then it’s probably time for a replacement. A roofing contractor can help you assess the condition of your roof and advise you on whether repair or replacement is the best option.
Signs of Wear and Tear
Even if your roof isn’t quite 20 years old yet, it might still be time for a replacement if you’re seeing signs of wear and tear. Look for if there are a lot of missing, cracked, or curling shingles; structural damage; leaks; or daylight coming through the roof boards in your attic. These are all indications that your roof is no longer doing its job as effectively as it should be and that replacement is necessary.
Sudden Increases in Energy Bills
If you notice that your energy bills are starting to creep up for no apparent reason, it could be because your roof is no longer insulating your home as well as it should be. Heat and cool air can escape through a damaged or worn-out roof, causing your HVAC system to work overtime to replace the escaped air and maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home. This can lead to increased energy costs and put your HVAC system at risk for early burn out. If you suspect that your roof might be the culprit, have a qualified contractor come out and take a look.
Everyone is Doing It
This one might seem like an odd sign that you need a new roof but there is some merit to it — if all of your neighbors are getting new roofs around the same time, there’s a good chance that there’s something going on with the roofs in your neighborhood that necessitates replacement (for example: perhaps there was hail damage from a recent storm, or the houses were built around the same time and everyone else’s roofs are worn out). It never hurts to have a professional inspect your roof just to be sure everything is okay if it seems everyone suddenly needs a roof replacement.
A new roof is a big investment, but it’s also one of the most important investments you can make in your home. If you think it might be time for a new roof, trust your gut and have a qualified contractor come out for an inspection. They’ll be able to tell you for sure whether or not replacement is necessary and help you choose the best course of action for your home.
