Though it’s a significant part of our homes, roofs are often overlooked and forgotten. That is, until you see water leaking through the ceiling or find your roof is sagging.
Don’t wait until you’re in serious trouble to seek roof repairs or replacement. Like your car, your roof needs regular maintenance. But what exactly does roof maintenance entail, and how often should you replace your roof?
We understand these questions can get a bit overwhelming for homeowners. So here are some useful details on roof inspections, replacement schedules, and the vital signs to look out for. Start preserving the safety and comfort of your home today.
How Often Should You Schedule Roof Inspections?
You should have your roof inspected twice a year—once in the spring and once in the fall. Spring inspections allow you to assess any damage from the winter season. Fall inspections can look into possible damage caused by temperature fluctuations and help you prepare for the winter months ahead.
Roofing issues are often unavoidable. As time passes, unwanted elements naturally alter the structural integrity of your roof. Therefore, it’s essential to find a trusted local roofing service that can conduct frequent inspections.
Your roof inspector will look for:
Cracked, loose, damaged, or missing shingles. Exposure to natural elements like rain, sun, wind, and snow wears out your roof over time.
Sagging or low spots. Too much weight from snow/ice, wind, and roofing materials can cause your roof to sag.
Mold or decay. If your house is exposed to enough moisture, humidity, and shade, mold and fungi can grow over time. And the longer the mold/fungi hang around, the more likely they can harm your shingles.
Water damage and leaking. Damaged and loose materials on your roof can cause water to leak through them. As time passes, this can threaten the structural integrity of your home.
Dark spots. Notice ugly spots or black streaks on your roof? These are dark spots or algae. Algae spores are airborne and can quickly spread on your rooftop.
Recommended Replacement Schedule Based on Roofing Material
Though we wish there was one schedule to abide by, this is never the case in the roofing world. There are different types of roofing materials that each carry their own lifespan.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles generally last about 15 to 20 years. They come in a variety of shapes and forms that make them one of the most adaptable roofing materials. Asphalt shingles are also known to be energy-efficient and cost-effective.
Composite Shingles
With a fiberglass-reinforcing mat at its core and coated with asphalt and mineral fillers, composite roofs last for approximately 20 years. They can maintain their shape and color well, are lightweight, and absorb outdoor noise.
Wooden Shingles
Wooden shingles last for about 30 to 40 years. Not only are they known to be weather resistant, but they are also insulated and flexible. They can be stained, oiled, and painted, providing various finishing options.
Rubber Shingles
Made from single-ply synthetic material, or ethylene propylene diene monomer, rubber shingles can last for 25 to 35 years. Rubber shingles are mostly suited for flat roofs that traditional shingles have trouble effectively protecting due to the lack of gravitational pull. They are known to be very durable, weather-resistant, and waterproof.
Concrete Tiles
With a long lifespan of approximately 50 years, concrete tiles hold a track record for performance and are resistant to hail, high winds, and fire. They are also energy efficient and available in a variety of colors and styles.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs can last for 40 to 70 years. They are known to be fire-resistant, energy-efficient, and lightweight, which helps preserve a roof’s structural integrity and lifespan. Moreover, metal roofing can be applied directly on top of other roofing materials without causing any damage.
7 Signs It’s Time to Repair/Replace Your Roof
Be sure to contact your local Indiana roofing contractor, DMG Exteriors, if you start noticing these seven signs:
1. Water Damage/Leaks
Take time to frequently check your attic or the areas closest to your roof in your home. If you notice any of the signs below, your roof is in need of at least a repair, if not outright replacement.
Dark patches
Mold growth
Structural weakness
If you have any electrical wiring in your attic or ceilings, water leaks can potentially create a fire hazard. So make sure to turn off the electricity prior to checking these areas.
Also, keep your attic and higher living spaces well ventilated. This can help prevent heat from building up and minimize further damage to your roof.
2. Loose/Missing Roof Materials
If you notice pieces of your roof lying around your home or notice gaps on your roof, you need a new roof. Moreover, take a look at your roof valley, or the area where two slopes meet. Gaps in the valleys can make your roof susceptible to leaks.
3. Damaged Shingles
In addition to missing pieces, look out for:
Cracked shingles: Also known as thermal splitting, shingles crack when the asphalt layer loses mass and causes its surface to shrink in size. This can be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations and cold weather roof installations.
Shingles that curl up: Take a look at your roof slopes that get direct sunlight. If you notice some of the shingles curl up, this could indicate the shingles are no good and need to be replaced.
4. Frequent Roof Repairs
Getting a roof repair every now and then is normal, but if you’re getting repairs done every year, it might be time to consider replacing your roof. Investing in a new and high-quality roof can save on costs in the long-run and give you peace of mind.
5. Poor Gutter Health
Designed to drain water away from homes, your gutters can tell you about the state of your roof. It’s normal to find debris inside your gutters, like leaves and twigs, but if you start noticing granules in your gutters, there might be an issue with your roof.
Granules are usually broken bits of your shingles. So be sure to contact your roofing specialist so they can properly assess and repair your roof.
6. Sagging Roof
If there are any dips on your roof, this could indicate your roof is weak and deteriorating. Get help as soon as possible. Otherwise, it may collapse.
7. An Aging Roof
Age isn’t just a number when it comes to your roof. Use our replacement schedule above to determine whether your roof is due for an upgrade.
If you don’t know how old your roof is, our roofing contractors at DMG Exteriors can help you assess the approximate age and expected lifespan of your roof.
Look After Your Home with DMG Exteriors
Rely on roofing professionals to help you look after your roof. At DMG Exteriors, we offer high-quality roofing services in the Lake, Porter, and LaPorte counties in Indiana.
Our team of licensed roofing experts can conduct inspections and provide the right services to adequately protect your home. Be sure to learn more about DMG Exteriors and contact us for a free estimate.
