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Ensuring that your roof is in good working condition is a key factor in protecting your home from the elements. A well-maintained roof also helps preserve the overall structural integrity of your residence. What’s more, a clean roof that is in good repair enhances your home’s curb appeal.
Over time, every roof experiences normal wear and tear, which may lead to the need for repairs or even replacement. Understandably, the very idea of potentially costly renovations can be stressful. When roof problems arise, it is advantageous to have a trusted roofing professional assess the situation as soon as possible. From there, you can make an educated decision that best fits your needs as a homeowner.
Below, we will first discuss signs that your roof needs repairs. We will then consider various indications that it is time for a roof replacement.
Signs Your Roof Needs Repair
Minor roof damage does not automatically necessitate a full roof replacement. Oftentimes, when problems are addressed quickly, repairs are all you need. The following are typical signs of roof damage that roofing contractors commonly repair.
Minor roof leaks
Frequent causes of minor roof leaks include deterioration of the plastic around pipes and vents, improperly driven nails, chimney leaks, or skylight issues. If the leak is restricted to a specific area and does not affect the overall integrity of the roof, a repair can successfully resolve the problem.
Identifying the source of the leak and promptly taking care of it is key to preventing further damage to your home’s interior and the underlying roof structure.
Missing or damaged shingles
Missing or damaged shingles can compromise your roof’s performance and appearance. If your roof is relatively new and the damage is isolated to a few shingles, repair is often a practical option.
As soon as any shingle concerns arise, it is in your best interest to schedule a professional roof inspection to ensure that the missing or damaged shingles are not a sign of a more serious underlying problem.
Minor storm damage
Roof damage from fallen tree limbs, hail, or wind is often repairable. Depending on the extent of damage and age of the roof, repairing or re-roofing the compromised section may be a more budget-friendly option than roof replacement.
Algae growth
Roof algae may be caused or exacerbated by warm temperatures, rising humidity, or excessive shade. Algae growth on roof shingles can lead to premature rotting. The bond between the shingles and the roof breaks down, resulting in shingle loss. Persistent or recurring algae growth could be an indication of underlying issues, such as poor roof ventilation.
While many homeowners find algae growth to be unsightly, if left untreated, it can also cause irreversible damage to your roof over time. An experienced roofing professional can advise you on how to treat algae patches before the damage spreads and recommend preventative measures to prevent future algae growth.
Signs Your Roof Needs Replacement
Some roof conditions demand more than a repair to be properly resolved. When certain problems become evident, it is likely necessary to replace the entire roof.
Curling and buckling shingles
The edges of curling shingles turn upwards or downwards and thus have a distorted appearance. When shingles curl, they are more vulnerable to wind uplift and can easily crack or break, exposing your home to potential leaks and water damage.
Buckling shingles occur when the shingles appear wavy or uneven. This problem arises when excessive moisture is trapped beneath the shingles, which leads to the expansion and contraction of the underlying roof deck. Buckled shingles are also prone to wind damage and may create an opening for water to enter your home.
Curling and buckling shingles may be an indication of an aging roof, prolonged exposure to heat and moisture, inadequate ventilation, poor installation, as well as insufficient fastening or underlayment. Such roof conditions should be addressed before they result in complete deterioration of the roof structure or interior damage.
Sagging or structural issues
A sagging roof is a plain indication of a structural issue that requires immediate attention. Roof sagging may be caused by a number of factors, such as prolonged water damage, insufficient support, or compromised structural components. Ignoring a sagging roof can lead to further structural damage and pose safety risks to the entire household.
Granule loss
Over time, the protective granules on asphalt shingles may begin to erode. When significant granule loss occurs, the shingles become less effective, and the integrity of the roof is compromised. The shingles may begin to crack and curl – causing your roof to look worn and faded.
Granule loss typically affects the entire roof, not just individual shingles. Such widespread deterioration likely indicates the need for a roof replacement.
Age of the roof
Every roofing material has an expected lifespan, depending on the material and manufacturer. As roofs age, they may experience wear and tear that could make them prone to further damage.
In instances of minor damage on an aged roof, it may be more cost-effective in the long run to go ahead and replace the entire roof. Repeated repairs will not necessarily make the roof last longer. The roof’s lifespan will still be limited by the age of the original roofing materials.
Contact the Professionals at Cherry Roofing & Siding for a Free Estimate
A well-maintained roof in good repair goes a long way in providing peace of mind to any homeowner. If you need a minor roof repair or are considering a full roof replacement, the skilled team of professionals at Cherry Roofing & Siding is ready to help.
We have the experience, know-how, and resources necessary for every roofing situation. Having repaired and installed thousands of residential roofs, we pride ourselves on providing quality materials and services to each and every homeowner we work with.
Contact Cherry Roofing & Siding today for a free estimate. We have been New Jersey and Pennsylvania’s leading contractor in home exteriors since 1975. When it comes to protecting your home, you need the industry’s gold standard on your side.
Nov 05, 2024
