4 Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Old Roof

Your roof is expected to last a certain number of years, which means it will need to be replaced sooner or later. The gradual shift between repairable to beyond repair should give you the time to recognize the signs of an impending replacement and prepare for it. These are some signs that you should pay attention to.

1. Your roof is past its expected service life. Every roof has an expected service life. Asphalt shingle roofs typically last 20 to 30 years, while metal roofs can last for 50 or more. Wear can take its toll at this age, even if the roof appears to be in great condition. If you don’t know how old your roof is, look for documentation such as roofing receipts, warranty paperwork, or the original roofing contract. Old emails or chats with the roofer may also help. If you have none of these, a roofing professional can estimate its age, as well as identify issues that may need to be fixed.

2. Your roof is missing shingles. Old asphalt shingles can be easily identified by the amount of wear it has. Cracking, curling and dark spots are some of the most common signs. Sometimes shingles get dislodged and eventually fall off the roof as it pulls free from its fasteners. When this happens, replacement should be done sooner rather than later, as “holes” in the outer roofing exposes the underlayment and other layers to further damage.

3. You’re dealing with leaks way too often. It goes without saying that your roof has problems if it’s leaking. If you find yourself having to break out the bucket every time it rains and making service appointments several times a year, you’re probably spending too much on repairs. At this point, replacement may be the more cost-effective option. 

4. You’re finding granules in the gutters. Sediment in the gutters is generally not a cause for alarm. It’s only normal for asphalt shingles to have some loose granules, particularly when new. However, if you’re finding a large amount of granules in the gutters — an inch-deep layer of sediment is considerably large — then the asphalt shingles are aging and will need to be replaced soon.

Is your roof showing these signs? Grand Forks Exteriors can help you get started on getting a new roof. Give us a call at (701) 951-7663, or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation.