If your home’s shingled roof is fifteen years old or older, it is time to start keeping an eye out for signs that it’s time to start considering replacement. Many roofs can last twenty years or longer, depending on how well they are maintained and the weather conditions they have endured. Still, it’s not age that will tell you whether your roof needs to be replaced; it’s the signs of damage or degradation that you should be aware of when evaluating the life left in your roof. Here are five common signs that it may be time to replace that old roof. 

1. Curling. If you have shingles that are curling or buckling, it may be time for a new roof, or at minimum, some shingle repair. Your shingles should lie flat against the roof; otherwise water can get underneath and leak into your home.
    
2. Rotting. Rotting spots on your roof is a severe danger sign that you may need a new roof and could have even more damage in your rafters and house structure.
    
3. Bald shingles. If you notice bald spots on your shingles where the granules have been worn or fallen off, it may be time for a new roof. These unprotected shingles can become brittle and fragile, needing replacement as soon as possible.
    
4. Blistering. Blisters on your shingles can be a sign of water underneath your shingles. If water is getting trapped underneath, it’s only a matter of time before you have leaks into your home.
    
5. Algae. Black stains from algae and moss growth can be signs that you may have damaged shingles. If the moss has been allowed to grow unchecked for years on end, the moss may have already grown into the shingles, causing extensive damage. 

The best way to know for sure whether you need a new roof is to call your local roofers for a roof inspection. They can tell you whether you just need minor roof repairs, or a full roof replacement.

Posted on behalf of Atwood Home Builders