It is virtually impossible to overstate the importance of a structurally sound roof. Your roof is what protects the furnishings and people in your home, but it is also essential to the survival of the entire house. If a leaking roof allows water to reach the inner wall, trusses and other wood supports, the entire house could tumble down. You may have seen abandoned structures scattered throughout Austin and the Texas countryside that have collapsed, and it is reasonably safe to assume that the first system to fail was the roof. Some signs that you need to replace your roof are obvious; water dripping through the ceiling or down the walls of the living room is impossible to miss. However, not every sign that your roof is about to fail is so easily spotted — and if you wait until you can see interior leaks, you may be in for some unwelcome surprises in the form of expensive repair bills. Here are some warning signs that you need to start thinking about a new roof.
Is It Time to Change Your Roof In Austin, TX? – The Reasons Why
Your Roof Is Old
Time takes a toll on asphalt shingles. If you have traditional three-tab shingles, you can expect that their life will be between 15 and 20 years. More expensive shingles can last longer, but none of them will last forever. If your shingles are nearing the end of their expected life, you should plan on replacing them soon.
Your Attic Is Providing Clues
Since your attic lies just under your roofing system, this is often the first location in which signs of a leak appear. You may notice water stains, mold or wood rot, evidence that water has seeped into the attic. Another indication of a roofing problem is sunlight coming through the roof or around the edges. Light coming from the top can indicate damaged underlayment; light around the edges can signal decayed fascia boards.
You Have Missing or Damaged Shingles
A strong wind can blow off shingles, cause hail damage and leave a gap that exposes the underlayment and allows water to trickle underneath surrounding shingles. You may also notice shingles that are cracked, cupped or curled. Whether the shingles are missing or damaged, you should contact a reputable roofer to conduct an inspection to determine whether repairs are possible.
Your Gutters Are Full of Granules
New asphalt shingles will shed excess granules; this is normal and does not signify a problem. However, with an older roof, significant deposits of granules in the gutter or around the downspouts indicates that the shingles are losing their structural integrity.
Your Roof Is Hurting the Curb Appeal of Your Home
Sometimes, the appearance of your roof is simply cosmetic. At other times, however, an ugly roof is the result of damage. If you have algae growing on your roof, have sections that are noticeably different in color, see areas of degranulated shingles or notice streaks on your shingles, you should have your roof inspected.
Various Components Are Missing or Damaged
Certain rooftop components can be easily repaired or replaced, but if they are missing or damaged, your entire roof could be at risk. For example, flashing is essential for preventing water penetration. Hip and ridge covers the exposed ends of the shingles. Vents help exhaust humidity from your attic and circulate the air. If any of these are missing or damaged, you want to have the problem corrected before additional damage can be done.
How Alpha Roofing Industries Can Help
Alpha Roofing is a roofing contractor and provides a full range of services, including roof inspections, asphalt shingle repairs, metal roofing systems, asphalt shingle installations, flashing repairs and moss removal. We also install siding and skylights. Our accredited crews deliver superior work at competitive rates. We would be happy to advise you of all possible solutions to your roofing issues so that you can choose the option that works best for your needs. If you would like a free quote, you can call (512) 777-1086 or complete the online form.
Alpha Roofing is the Austin Residential Roofing Experts!