Do you own a home with an older roof? Are you wondering if it's time to replace your roof or if you can put that off for a little while longer? Unlike the tires on your car or worn-out shoes, it's not always easy to tell when a roof is getting to the point that it needs to be repaired or replaced. But that doesn't mean it's an impossible task, only that it's a little more difficult. Some of the more common signs that a roof needs to be replaced soon include:
1. Clogged gutters: Gutters that get clogged for a few days out of the year should still be fine. But if you or a previous homeowner neglected to clean out a clogged gutter for a prolonged period of time, then there may be an issue. Clogged gutters can cause rain to back up under the shingles at the edges of your roof, resulting in a roof leak. If allowed to continue to happen, this roof leak can progress to being an even more serious dryrot issue. Always keep your gutters as clean as possible and, if you suspect that the gutters were clogged for a lengthy period in the past, you may want to have your roof inspected now for issues.
2. Tiny pebbles: If you've ever seen a shingle up close, you know that it's mainly comprised of a tar paper substance that's covered on the top by very small bits of what amounts to colored gravel. In addition to providing the color of your roof, these small pieces of aggregate also help to protect the tar paper underneath from being damaged by the elements. As a shingle gets older, these gravel-type bits can start to become detached from the shingle and get washed away by rain and other precipitation. If you notice that the area around your downspout is starting to gather pebbles that are the same color as your roof, it's time to call in a professional.
3. Curling shingles: Shingles can start to curl for a number of reasons, including age and excessive heat. Sometimes this heat is external, such as being on a south-facing roof in a hot climate, and sometimes it's a result of damaged ductwork or improper insulation in your attic or crawlspace allowing heat to build up underneath your roof in the winter. Whatever the cause, curling shingles are a serious sign of an impending roof leak and should be replaced as soon as possible.
If you suspect your roof is in need of a repair or replacement, contact a local roofing company like Shipp Roofing.