If it’s been many years since you first had your roof installation, or if your roof hasn’t been replaced since you first moved in, it may be time for a roof replacement. Roofing systems and roofing materials gradually degrade over time. Eventually, the durability of your roof will have diminished enough to put your home at risk. At this point, you’ll need a roof replacement to preserve the condition of your home.
Here, we’ll discuss the main factors to consider as you decide whether or not you need a roof replacement in Omaha.
Factors to determine if a roof replacement is necessary
The Age of Your Roof
The first factor to consider before having a roof replacement is its age. If your roof has reached or surpassed its expected lifespan, you’ll likely benefit from having it replaced.
The lifespan of your roof depends on its materials, as well as the quality of its installation. Certain materials, like slate and concrete, last far longer than others, like asphalt. But, generally speaking, most roofing systems last for 20 to 25 years. You can consult your Omaha roofing contractor for help understanding the lifespan of your roof.
The Condition of Your Shingles
If you have a shingle roof, the condition of your shingles can be a great indicator of whether or not you need a roof replacement. As time goes on and your roof is continually exposed to the elements, your shingles will start to deteriorate. You may notice curling, buckling, or the wearing away of the shingles’ protective outer layer. For asphalt shingles, you may notice that many of the outer granules of asphalt have worn away. Additionally, if your home has incurred storm damage, you may see that some shingles are missing from your roof. While some damage shingles can simply be replaced, many damaged shingles could indicate that you need a new roof.
Water Damage
Water damage is one of the most severe issues to impact roofing systems in Omaha. If your roof leaks, for instance, the leaking water could flow through the structure of your roof, your attic, and the walls and ceilings in your home. This excess moisture can cause your roofing materials to rot more quickly over time and lead to mold development in your home.
Signs of water damage in your home include dark marks or stains on your walls or ceilings. You may also notice mold growing in these areas. If the roof leak is extensive, or if your roof is already reaching the end of its lifespan, your best move may be to have a roof replacement.
Moss Growth
Moss may grow on sections of a roof that don’t often receive sunlight. Excess moisture usually also needs to be present for moss to grow. While homeowners may think that moss is only an aesthetic problem, it can also diminish the durability of your roof. This is because the moss will trap moisture on the surface of your roof. When freezing temperatures strike in the winter months, this moisture can freeze and damage the outer protective coating of your roof shingles. If you notice moss growth on the surface of your roof, be sure to contact your roofing contractor to determine if it’s time for a roof replacement, or if the damage can simply be repaired.
Light Coming Through Roofing Boards
Over time, the underlying decking of your roofing system can diminish due to moisture. You can see this damage by going into your attic during the day and looking up through the roof boards. If you see daylight coming in through the boards, it may be time to get your roof replaced.
Flashing Problems
The role of chimney flashing in your roofing system is to keep water from seeping down around your chimney and reaching your roof deck, as this could lead to significant water damage. If, over time, your roof flashing becomes damaged, it could lead to issues throughout your roof and home. Additionally, if your current flashing is made out of cement or tar, it may be time to have metal flashing installed, as this material will provide greater durability for your roof. Contact AGR Roofing and Construction today to learn more about having a roof replacement in Omaha.