10 Signs It’s Time for a New Roof

Facts to Consider—Roof Repair vs. Roof Replacement

Your home’s roof takes a beating every day, and although it’s built to endure the elements, it won’t last forever. Roof repairs done in a timely fashion can help the integrity of your roof stay intact and help it reach its lifespan. But if your roof has lived out its lifetime, or if repairs are so abundant that it makes more sense to replace it than repair it, prompt action can save you money and hassles in the long run.

Delaying your roof replacement can result in bigger problems down the road. Keep an eye on your roof, and be aware of the warning signs that it’s time for a replacement with American Way Exteriors. Understand that putting it off could mean you have to repair the damage from moisture penetration and invest in a new roof.

How to Know It’s Time for a Roof Replacement

Noticing a water spot on the ceiling in your home is not the only way to know you need a roof replacement or repair. In fact, for moisture to penetrate all the way into your ceiling is a sign you’ve possibly had a problem for quite some time.

1. How old is your current roof?

Whether your home is Craftsman, Colonial, or Contemporary, one of the easiest indicators that it’s time for a new roof is its age. A typical roof lasts 20-25 years—if it was installed correctly, ventilated properly, and good materials were used on it. One other factor involves if your roof was installed over an old roof; if it was, it may wear out quicker and need replacement after only 20 years.

2. Do you have missing shingles?

If your current roof has obvious missing shingles, it’s a clear sign you need a roof replacement or repair. Step across the street from your home and use binoculars to see if all your shingle tabs are intact.

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3. Are your roof shingles curling or buckling up?

If your roof shingles show signs of curling or buckling up, they may have completed their life span, or you need a roof replacement. Take a look at the slopes of your roof that are impacted regularly by direct sunlight.

4. Are your shingles wearing away?

One way to know if your shingles are wearing out is to look at your gutters and see if they are loaded up with shingle granules. With proper safety precautions, take a look inside your gutters, or hire a professional to look. Asphalt shingle granules in your gutters are a sign your roof is at the end of its life span. Another sign of shingles wearing away is inconsistent or darker colors on portions of your roof.

5. Are your roof valleys compromised?

Roof valleys are vital to your roof integrity. When snow or rain fall on your Dayton, Ohio roof, they flow through valleys and into your gutter system. If a roof valley is compromised, your roof may begin to leak. If you notice shingles falling apart or missing in your roof valley, it’s time for a replacement roof.

6. What condition is your chimney flashing in?

If your flashing consists of roof cement or tar, it should be replaced with a metal flashing system. Keep moisture penetration at bay with this durable, long-term, tight-fitting solution.

7. Can you see the sky through your roof boards?

Go into your attic and look up to see if there is any daylight visible. If your roof is intact, your roof boards should be undamaged and you should not be able to see any sunshine in your attic.

8. Is there moisture in your attic insulation?

Your attic insulation should be dry at all times. If it’s wet, your roof is leaking and needs replacement or repair.

9. Does your current roof look old?

The need for roof replacement is sometimes completely obvious with an old, damaged roof that has damaged shingles, or obvious holes in it.

10. Are your neighbors getting roof replacements?

The homes in most neighborhoods were built around the same time, and their roofing will likely wear out at approximately the same time. If you see several homes in your neighborhood getting new roofing, it’s a sure sign you should have yours inspected.

Avoid the hassle of moisture penetration and the costly repairs that result from it by keeping a sharp eye on your roof integrity. An annual, detailed inspection is a great way to proactively keep ahead of potential problems and get the proper protection from your roof.

How to Get Rid of the Dark Streaks on Your Roof

Airborne algae can cause dark streaks on your roofing. It may not harm your roof shingles, but it is unsightly and hinders curb appeal. With the proper safety precautions taken, streaks can be removed by creating a half-and-half blend of bleach and water and spraying it on the affected areas of your roof. Be sure to protect your landscaping from bleach runoff.

Resist the urge to use a power washer, as that could cause granules to loosen off your roof. A simple garden hose will do the job, and your roof should look fabulous again after cleaning it. If you aren’t comfortable getting up on your roof to clean it, simply hire a pro to do the cleaning and any repair work needed.

A Trusted Roofing Company for Peace of Mind

At American Way Exteriors, we understand how overwhelming it can be to need a new roof. That’s why we developed a simple process to streamline your home upgrade. Homeowners appreciate our fluid communication throughout their roof replacement—with reminders and photos at every stage of the project. Our convenient financing makes remodeling simple.

Enhance your property value with high quality materials expertly installed by our experienced team. Read what others have to say about our service.