Do I Really Need a New Roof? 7 Signs to Look Out For

If you're a homeowner who knows nothing about roofs, which is true for most people, it can be hard to know if your roof really needs to be replaced. There are actually several variables that can impact your roof’s durability, such as roofing products, roof maintenance, shingle wear and age, the climate in your area, and your home’s susceptibility to further damage, to name a few. 

If you’re seriously worried you may need a new roof it might be best to call a roofing company for a roof inspection. But if you’re starting to wonder if now’s the time, we’ve put together 7 signs to look out for to help you out.

Need a New Roof: Sign #1- Damaged Shingles

Roof shingles are designed to lie flat on the roof, allowing water to flow freely over them. Shingles that are cracked, crooked, blistering, or curling, disrupt the flow of water and cause it to leak into your home. These leaks often aren’t detected immediately and can continue for weeks, slowly rotting the wooden structure of your roof before you notice them. 

Asphalt shingles have an organic or fiberglass base that is then coated in asphalt to protect your roof from water and fire damage, and then granules to protect the asphalt from UV rays. Granules will fall now and again, but if you’re finding bald spots on your shingles and losing a significant amount of granules that can be found in your gutters, you may need a new roof.

Need a New Roof: Sign #2 - Age

The average life expectancy of a roof is 20 years. Some roofs last longer than others, depending on the quality of materials used and if the roof was installed correctly, but if your roof is nearing or past the 20-year marker, it may be time to replace it. 

As your roof ages, the seals on the shingles break down, causing them to loosen or fall off with the slightest breeze. The granules on the shingles also dry out as they age and start falling off. The shingles then begin to curl and blister, leaving spaces for water to seep through. 

Older roofs also often have poor ventilation, allowing condensation to get trapped between the layers of your roof. This extra moisture can cause mold and roof deterioration, as well as damage to the flashing.

Need a New Roof: Sign #3 - Damaged Chimney Flashing

Chimney flashing acts as a waterproofing agent that seals and protects your roof and chimney. If the flashing begins to rust or wasn’t installed correctly, water could seep into the joints of the chimney, eroding the bricks and making them unstable. If the flashing’s appropriately installed, it can last over 30 years. 

Need a New Roof: Sign #4 - Blistering Paint

Paint peeling or blistering on the inside or outside of your home is another sign you may need to replace your roof. Blistering and peeling paint occurs when water pools up beneath the paint. The source of the water is often a leaking roof. If the water has gone far enough to travel inside your home, your sheathing/roof-deck has a higher probability of being significantly rotted as well. Our Ice & Water Underlayment is meant to help prevent water seeping through to your sealing if it had somehow gotten through our barrier of asphalt shingles.

Need a New Roof: Sign #5 - Roof “Gardens”

If you see moss or algae growing on your roof, that indicates trapped moisture. Moss holds moisture against the roof’s surface, and when it freezes during the winter, this can push up the shingles and cause granules to come loose.

Need a New Roof: Sign #6 - Rising Utility Bills 

An increase in utility bills is another sign you may need to replace your roof. Roof problems such as poor ventilation and leaks impact your cooling and heating systems’ efficiency, causing them to work harder and increase your utility bills.

Need a New Roof: Sign #7 - Roof Sagging 

The ridge of your roof should be straight, so a droopy, sagging roof needs replacing before further damage occurs. Roof sagging can be caused by water damage, rotting plywood, improper installation, lack of waterproofing, cheap roofing materials and workmanship, or excessive weight from ice and snow. 

What Can You Do? Put a Klaus on Your House!

No matter how many of these signs you see on your roof, nothing compares to an experienced roofing contractor's knowledge. If you’re worried you need a new roof, call Klaus Larsen Roofing for a FREE ESTIMATE! We can help you determine if a roof replacement is the right option for you, or if we believe repairing the roof would be ideal. Call 1-860-563-7661 and put a Klaus on your house today for a quality roofing experience and roof installation!