A roof’s average life span ranges from 20 to 25 years. Sometimes you can see the damage, especially if you have asphalt shingles that are coming loose or if you see grit from the shingles in your rain gutters or on the ground, especially after a rain. On the other hand, you might have concrete shingles that look almost as good as the day they were installed.
Problems often begin in the underlayment or paper underneath the shingles and on top of the roof’s interior structure. Over time the paper can degrade due to damage from animals, insects, weather, poor installation, aging, excessive heat, and other factors.
Your home could develop roof leaks that cause significant damage in the attic before any moisture comes through the drywall to your home’s interior. If your roof is nearing the end of its average lifespan and you are having problems with leaks, chances are it is time for a roof replacement.
2. Shingles in Poor Condition
Shingles with curling edges or buckling can result from age, but they may also be caused by poor ventilation. Moisture can stay underneath the shingles without ever drying out, which leads to damage and deterioration in the roofing materials.
Water can also get underneath and penetrate the roof deck if your roof has damaged or missing shingles. Water could cause rotting and other damage to the wood structure of your roof and lead to ceiling leaks.
Leaks may not show right away inside your home, but if you ever see wrinkles or swelling on the drywall material on your ceiling or wall after a good rainstorm, there is a strong chance that your roof has a significant leak.
3. A Sagging Roof Deck
You could overlook this clue at first, but you might notice that your roof has started sagging at some point. It can happen to any part of your roof and means that it has developed a structural problem.
You could be looking at a more extensive repair that involves rebuilding part of the roof’s wood rafters and other infrastructure. Poor ventilation and moisture that never entirely dries out are the primary causes of sagging roofs.
Have Your Roof Inspected by an Expert
Replacing your entire roof is not necessary very often, but it is a significant investment that adds to your home’s integrity, beauty, and value. If you have noticed any damage or other signs of an aging roof, it’s essential to have it investigated by a roofing professional. An experienced, qualified roofing professional knows what subtle signs to look for, can accurately assess the condition and damage to your existing roof, and recommend repair or replacement.
Taking care of your roof is taking care of your family and assets—call Guy Brothers Roofing and have your Mobile, AL home’s roof inspected today.
