Having a home- a roof over your head- allows you to live a safe and comfortable life. A solid roof shelters you from the elements, making your home the preferred place to rest, raise children, protect your belongings, and feel comfortable. That is why it is vital to keep your roof in good condition, but how do you know when it is time for a new installation? BYLTup’s roofing experts have created a list of signs to look out for that will help determine if you need a new roof.
Signs from the Inside: Discoloration in Drywall and Bubbling in Paint
The easiest way to start your inspection is to look around the inside of your home. Drywall discoloration, bubbling paint, and lumber stains on the ceiling indicate moisture has seeped in. Even if water is not pouring into your home, the slightest trickle is evidence that the roof has deteriorated in some places, which will only worsen over time now that it is more vulnerable to the elements.
Signs from the Outside: Missing or Damaged Areas
An obvious sign of roof deterioration is cracked, curled, missing, or fallen tiles and shingles. A functioning roof keeps out the elements. When those protective layers fall off or deteriorate, the sun’s UV rays can break the remainder of the roof down more rapidly. It is very difficult to repair a roof that has begun to deteriorate in multiple areas. It may not indicate that a new roof is immediately necessary, but it is evidence of a potentially long-term problem. In many cases, it will be more financially beneficial and less stressful in the long-term to replace the roof instead of doing multiple repairs over years indefinitely.
It Has Been Over 15 Years
The life expectancy of the average shingle roof is about 20-25 years. If you are a new homeowner and are unsure about when your roof was last replaced, you can pull city records of your property to determine when your roof was installed or recently repaired. However, older homes might not have this information, and sometimes installations occur outside of city approval with no records to confirm the timeline. If you cannot find city records, give us a call, and we can provide an inspection.
Cracked and Clogged Gutters and Pipes
Even in areas where rain is less prevalent, ignoring building debris in gutters and cracks around drainage systems can incite and exacerbate water damage to your roof and/or foundation. When rain does occur, gutters clog with leaves and debris causing water to back up and seep into the home over time. When ceiling discoloration alerts you of the water damage, your roof has already been compromised.
Extreme Weather and Circumstances
After experiencing an extreme weather event, it is wise to check the condition of your roof. Heavy rain and high winds can weather down tiles and shingles, leaving the underlayment of your roof vulnerable to further deterioration. Embers from a nearby fire or neighboring fireworks can land on your roof and cause damage, even if a fire never actually starts on your property. But, one of the most damaging elements is the sun’s UV rays, especially for sunny SoCal homes. The intense sun also calls for the need for an inspection.
Your roof is the most important part of your house. It keeps the elements out so you can stay safe, and BYLTup is here to ensure your roof is in its best condition for the long term. If you notice any of these five signs on your roof, contact BYLTup to schedule a repair or re-roofing. If you still are still unsure about what you need, we also offer honest inspections that keep you informed and put your safety first.
Protect your roof and contact us at 522-800-5620 for more information about roof installation.
