If you delay a roof replacement, you can put your property’s structure in jeopardy. You also make your interior more vulnerable to the elements and the high costs associated with an overworked HVAC system. However, it can be difficult to tell when your home or business may be in need of a new roof. This guide explains how you know you need a new roof – and what you can do about it when the time comes.

How Do I Know I Need a New Roof? Insight From a Roofing Expert

There are several signs that you need a new roof, but for many people, they’re easy to miss. That’s because of the “out of sight, out of mind” principle; you don’t look at your roof every day, and you’re only likely to notice a problem with it when water starts making its way into your home. With that said, these are the most common signs you need a new roof:

• Leaks
• Peeling paint
• Missing, cracked or curled shingles
• Increased energy costs
• Damaged flashing
• A sagging appearance
• Mold or moss growth
• Severe storm damage to other parts of your home
• Your neighbors have started getting new roofs installed
• Your roof is between 20 and 30 years old (or older)

The following sections explain.

Leaks: A Sign You Need a New Roof

Leaks are a sign that you need a new roof. Water can cause all sorts of problems, including mold growth, wood rot and structural damage. In some cases, water may even make its way into your living space, causing wall stains – or worse, causing your ceilings to collapse.

Sometimes it’s not easy to pinpoint the source of a leak. In fact, water can show up in your home several feet from the actual leak. For that reason, it’s best to call in a professional to find the source. Our team can investigate, and when we find a leak, we’ll let you know whether we can repair it or whether it may be time to start exploring your options for a new roof.

Peeling Paint Can Signal That It’s Time for a New Roof

It’s not uncommon for paint to peel off the exterior of a home. But if you notice that your paint is peeling in large patches – or if it’s peeling and there’s water damage underneath – that could be a sign you need a new roof.

The same is true for interior paint; if it’s peeling, bubbling or appears stained, it may be a sign that you have a roof leak. The only way to tell whether a leak is serious enough to warrant a new roof is to call a professional. Our team can come to your home to evaluate the situation quickly; we’ll let you know whether you may need a new roof.

Missing, Cracked or Curled Shingles May Mean It’s Time for Roof Replacement

Missing, cracked or curled shingles are another sign that you may need a new roof. If you notice any of these problems, it’s important to call a professional as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that water will make its way into your home, causing damage.

Increased Energy Costs and Your Old Roof

If you’ve noticed that your energy bills have been increasing, it may be a sign that you need a new roof. That’s because an old or damaged roof won’t insulate your home as well as a new one. As a result, your HVAC system will have to work overtime to keep your home comfortable, driving up your energy costs.

If you’re not sure whether your increased energy bills are due to your roof, there’s an easy way to find out. Check your attic; if it’s especially hot in the summer or cold in the winter, you’ll need to call a professional to find out whether you need a new roof.

Damaged Flashing May Mean You Need a New Roof

Flashing is the metal strips that are used to seal the joints between your roof and your chimney, vents, skylights and other openings. If the flashing is damaged, it can allow water to seep into your home, causing all sorts of problems.

In some cases, damaged flashing can be repaired. But in other cases, it may be necessary to replace the entire roof. If you’re not sure whether you need a new roof, it’s best to call a professional. Our team can inspect your roof and let you know whether you need a new one.

A Sagging Appearance Nearly Always Indicates the Need for a New Roof

If your roof is sagging, it’s a sign that it’s not able to support the weight of your home. This is usually due to water damage or rot. If you notice a sagging roof, it’s important to call a professional right away. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that your roof will collapse.

Mold or Moss Growth Can Be a Sign You Need a New Roof

Mold and moss growth is another sign that you may need a new roof. Mold can cause all sorts of problems, including respiratory problems, allergies and even cancer. Moss can also damage your roof, causing it to deteriorate prematurely.

If you notice mold or moss growth on your roof, it’s important to call a professional right away. Our team can inspect your roof and let you know whether you need a new one.