Signs You Need a New Roof

Roofs are constantly exposed to the brutal Florida elements. Baking sun, ripping winds, fluctuating temperatures and pounding rain all take their toll on this important protective layer. While some types of roofs can potentially last up to 25 years, shingles do eventually age, bend, break, tear or simply fall apart. It can be hard to tell how bad things are from the ground, but here are a few signs you need a new roof.

Sagging Roof

A sagging roof is one of the most telltale signs that you need a new installation. Sagging happens when there is a structural issue below the shingles, such as severe water damage or a broken rafter. In either case, a contractor will need to remove the shingles and plywood sheathing underneath to get to the bottom of the problem.

Water Damage

Apparent water damage like leaks or stains along the ceiling inside the home is a fairly straightforward sign that the roof is no longer doing its job. This damage could be the result of compromised shingles, deteriorated flashing or poor installation techniques. Whatever the case may be, leaks don’t get better on their own, and homeowners should look into replacing or repairing their roof in short order. A leaky roof can lead to mold and attract pests like carpenter ants, termites and even rodents looking for shelter.

Cracking Shingles

From the ground, it may be possible to see what appear to be cracks sprawling across two or three shingles. Those aren’t cracks, though. They’re actually tears that come from prolonged thermal expansion and contraction cycles. As the sun rises and heats the roof, the shingles expand. As the temperatures drop, they contract. Over time, these tiles tear and become the prime location for leaks and structural damage.

Dirty Gutters

Asphalt shingles have grit or granules embedded in their surface, and these granules create a barrier between the sun and the shingle. It’s normal for a bit of grit to loosen up and fall off (especially when the roof is new). But if more and more granules are collecting in the gutters, there might be a problem. Without the grit barrier, the sun will bake the shingles and cause them to warp and deteriorate.

Age of the Roof

Homeowners should check their receipts and improvement records for the date their roof was last replaced. Typical asphalt shingle systems have lifespans of 20 to 25 years. If that time window has passed, most homeowners can start planning for a new roof.

It’s also important to note that if the shingles were installed on top of an existing layer of shingles, then they might not last as long. Twenty years is typical for these kinds of applications.

Curling or Cupping Shingles

Some telltale signs that a shingle roof is nearing the end of its lifespan are cupping, curling or clawing. Cupping and curling look very similar, with the ends of the shingles peeling away from the courses below them and beginning to point upward. Clawing happens when the center of the shingle lifts while the ends stay in contact with the roof. Neither condition is a good sign, and they can be the result of extreme temperatures, improper installation, poor ventilation or age.

Missing Shingles

Missing shingles are never a good sign. This occurs when the shingle itself weakens, and the adhesive holding the bottom in place starts separating from the course below. At that point, all it takes is the right gust of wind for a shingle to fall off. However, just one or two missing shingles isn’t the end of the world. In some cases, the cause could be improper installation by the last roofing contractor. A relatively quick repair by a reputable roofing contractor could have the roof back in good shape.

La Pera’s General Contracting team of roofers understand that your home is your most important investment. Our professional contractors have the experience needed in inspections, replacements, repairs and more, of all types of roofing systems. We are equipped to help you make the right decision for your home and for your budget. We strive to give our clients options, as well as sound advice based on solutions that work. Whatever type of roofing material you have, we can help.

If you have questions about your roofing needs, call La Pera’s General Contracting today! We will provide you with a detailed inspection and estimate by a professional contractor.