If you want to make your home a place to live for years to come you’ll need to work on maintaining its structure. The roof is one of the most important parts of your home, adding character and value while protecting your home from harsh weather. While sturdy, after 20 years or so you may need a roof replacement. If your roof has many of the problems we’ve listed below, it might be time for a new one.
1. Algae Growth
Algae can show up on your roof as a dark streak. Installing a zinc strip along the ridge of the roof can prevent algae from growing. However, if algae is already there the damage is done and your shingles could deteriorate prematurely.
2. Buckling
Buckling is when your shingles are raised and look like something is underneath causing them to push up. This is a symptom of poor roof ventilation. Usually this is caused when the attic below is too hot and cooks the shingle.
3. Curling
Curling shingles are usually caused by improper ventilation or moisture. Once shingles began to curl they can’t be stopped. The curled pieces will break off and potentially cause the roof to leak.
4. Blistering
Blistered roofs look cracked and bubbled. Most of the time the shingles are dislodged from their seal and original placement. Blistering roofs are dangerious and should not be walked on.
5. Splitting
Can be caused by natural aging or stress on the shake. The shingle will pull apart in the middle and leave a crack.
6. Missing Shingles
Excessive cracks and splints could lead to missing shingles and shakes. A few missing shingles are no big deal and can be replaced, but if your roof is missing many, it’s a sign of your roof nearing the end of its usefulness.
7. Damaged Flashing
Flashing is a thin layer of waterproof material. If your flashing is damaged, moisture could go through to your attic causing water damage.
8. Water Marks
Water marks on the ceiling are a dead give away that you have a leaky roof. Sometimes simple repairs can be made, other times the roof is too far gone.
9. Missing Granules of Shingles
Asphalt based shingles have granular coverings to protect the tar surface. This surface will loosen and wear off over time. Once it’s worn down to the base, the shingle will dry out and crack, leaving the underlying roof exposed. When this happens the shingles have to be replaced.
10. Rotting
Rotting can be caused by moisture absorption in certain materials like wood. This is a serious problem and the rotted shingles need to be replaced immediately. If your roof shows one of two of these signs, you may be able to repair it without redoing the whole roof. However, if your roof exhibits more than two of these signs you’ll want to call a professional roofer for an evaluation and possible estimate on a new roof.
If you are near Birmingham, Oakland County or the surrounding area and are looking for a home roofing company, give Martino Home Improvements a call at 248-629-9260. We can come to your home, inspect your roof for free and leave you a detailed estimate.
