Most rooftops will last between 20 and 25 years before needing to be replaced. However, a variety of signs will tell you that you need a new roof regardless of how long it has been. One of the most common symptoms is a leaky roof.
Water Signs
If you have watermarks on a ceiling or if you have dripping water when it rains, you may believe that you need a new roof. However, a leak does not always mean an entirely new roof is necessary. Sometimes, you only need to complete roof repair.
When water is finding a way into your home, you can fix it by replacing a shingle or two, filling it with caulk, installing new flashing, or some other form of roof maintenance. Flashing is a protective layer of metal. This metal helps to provide a barrier that protects spots vulnerable to leaking.
Sometimes during storms, tree limbs, wind, and hail can weaken, remove, or loosen shingles on your roof. Only the individual damaged shingle will need to be replaced, which will save you from having to complete a full roof repair.
The rubberized boots located around pipes and inadequately installed satellite television dishes and solar panels can also cause small water leaks in the roof. The first step before replacing the entire roof is to locate the source of the water leak.
Locating Leaks
At first, it may seem easy to find a leak, but the best way is to wait until it is raining outside. As the rain comes down, water will probably accumulate at a different spot than where it is getting into the house. This fact means you may need to start at where the water is entering and work your way up to where the water is pooling.
Once you have located the origin of the inside water leak, you should look at the top of the roof to see if there are any missing shingles, torn flashing, or any other visible signs that roof maintenance is required.
You may need to call a roofing company for an inspection if the leak cannot be located. A licensed roofing contractor can also provide recommendations about what type of roofing repairs or replacement is necessary.
Roofing costs increase the more times you have to fix the same leak so that a recurring leak may be more expensive than a brand-new roof replacement with a warranty.
Warning Signs
Even though leaks are one of the most common signs of needing a new roof is leaks, you do not have to wait until you have a wet mess. If you notice damaged, missing, or curling shingles, you can be sure that eventually, you are going to get a leak. The age of a roof is another guideline to follow when thinking about getting a new roof. If your roof is out-of-warranty, it may also be another sign to replace it.