Roofs are to protect the house and its residents from the sun’s heat, rain, dust storms, hail storms, and all extreme weather conditions. It provides a sense of security to the people living inside.
The roof is exposed to different weather all year round, and its structural components wear out with time. A damaged roof can lead to various problems, including leakages that can damage furniture and compromise a home’s structural integrity.
Thus, a roof inspection is essential once a year.
Common Signs Your Roof May Need to Be Replaced
Here are some signs that indicate that the roof has completed its lifespan and now a new one is needed:
1. The Roof Has Completed Its Age
In Virginia, the contractors claim the average age of a roof to be 20-30 years. If the roof of your house has reached its age, then you should consider getting it replaced to avoid any unwanted situation. Moreover, it has been observed that due to severe weather conditions, roof damage can reduce the average lifespan of a roof.
2. Light Entering the Attic
The first thing to check is the attic to assess the condition of the roof. During the daytime, if you can see any light entering the attic, it means there are holes in the roof, and you need to get a roof inspection. The inspector can recommend repairs or replacement of the roof.
3. Roof Shingles are Curled or Missing
If the shingles are curled in any direction, it is a sign of damage. Missing shingles can be detected easily. It indicates that your roof is not in good condition, and it should be replaced as soon as possible.
4. Sign of Vegetation on the Roof
The older roofs can be detected due to the growing vegetation on them. The algae growing on the roof can damage the structure and make it leaky. So, the roof might need to be replaced. The homeowners shouldn’t try to clean the vegetation on their own. It is better to let the professionals clean it.
5. Presence of Granules in Gutters
Asphalt granules are used to prolong the life of a roof. If you see those granules in the gutters or around the roof, it means they have left their space. Now the roof needs repair work. It’s better to conduct an inspection of the roof and check if the roof needs any replacement.
6. Signs of Damage in the Attic
If any spot in the attic has signs of water damage or has been discolored, it indicates inefficiency of the roof. Such things under old roofs indicate getting the roof restored to avoid a bigger loss.
7. Leakage During Rain
The roof of your house may look fine, apparently. It is possible that the fine-looking roof leaks when it rains. The leakages can be detected by noticing water damage in any part of the home.
8. Waves in the Roof
If you witness any sag in the roof, then there is a serious problem with your roof. A curved or sagging roof can collapse at any time. Sags mean that the roof’s support system has failed. Such a roof should be replaced immediately.
9. Nails are Exposed
The roof deteriorates over time. If you can find broken seals or visible nails on your roof, it’s time for a roof inspection. The inspector can suggest the necessary actions based on the condition of the roof.
What Does An Inspector Check in Roof Inspection?
When inspecting a roof, the inspector has a checklist that ensures the roof gets inspected thoroughly. The inspector looks for the following to check the condition of the roof:
1. Roof Material
The roof’s lifespan depends on the material used. According to the roof type and signs of wear found during roof inspection, the inspector suggests repair or replacement of the roof. The average lifespan of roofs made of different materials is as follows:
- Roof with Asphalt Shingles: 20-25 years
- Roof with Wood Shingles: 20-25 years
- Metal Roof: 40-70 years
- Slate Roof: 50-100 years
2. Condition of the Shingles.
The inspector evaluates the condition of the shingles. Curled, cracked, or missing shingles tell a sad story about roof maintenance.
3. Roof Structure and Framing
It is the most important part to check the framing, decking, and support of the roof. Any damaged component can have an impact on the structural integrity of the roof.
4. Flashing
Flashing is the material used to seal the joints in the roof. It is found around chimneys, vents, and skylights. If the flashing is cracked, corroded, or improperly installed, it can lead to multiple issues, including damage to the interior of the home.
5. Gutters Around the Roof
Clogged gutters can reduce the lifespan of a roof. Secondly, the damage to the roof can be assessed by the asphalt granules found in the gutters.
5. Assessment of Attic
The condition of the roof can be assessed in the attic. Roof leaks can be detected in the attic at an initial stage. If there are any holes in the roof, they can also be examined during the daytime. Moreover, mold grown on the roof can also be assessed, as a musty odor may fill the attic of the home.
Conclusion
Roof inspection is a technical assessment that only certified home inspectors can carry out. If you have witnessed any signs that indicate damage to your roof, it is better to get an earlier inspection and plan the repair or replacement of the roof.
You can contact Clatterbuck Home Inspections to have a trusted home inspector for roof inspection and continue living in your home worry-free.