When was the last time you thought about your home’s roof? If you’re anything like most homeowners, it was probably when you first moved in. The roof is often the last thing on anyone’s mind, especially when you’re dealing with more pressing issues in your home.
But you don’t want to neglect your roof. The roof is a major piece of any home, and after some time, it requires repairs – or even needs to be replaced. And failing to give your roof the care it needs can lead to significant problems.
Too often, roof repairs happen long after any damage has already occurred. This can weaken your roof, which can result in more damage and further issues. And if your roof needs to be replaced, you could find yourself dealing with bigger problems the longer you wait.
Don’t let your roof go unnoticed and uncared for. If it’s been a while since you took a good look at your roof, it could be showing signs of age and wear. And if you notice any of the following warning signs, you need to have your roof repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
Ceiling Leak
A leaking ceiling in your home is an immediate cause for concern. It’s also the most obvious sign that you need to check out the condition of your roof and consider replacing or repairing it.
Even if your ceiling isn’t actually dripping water, you should call a professional at any sight of water damage. If you notice any dark streaks or water stains on your ceiling or running down the sides of the walls of your home, this could be a sign that your roof needs repairing. To know for sure if it’s the roof that has caused the ceiling leak or if it’s just the plumbing, check out your attic.1
The average cost of repairing a ceiling from a leak is $680, or $45 to $55 per square foot.2 However, roof repair costs are $830 on average but can run as high as $4,500.3
Curled or Buckling Shingles
Your roof’s shingles are its first line of defense against the outdoor elements. And over time, shingles can become increasingly worn. This signals that it might be time for a repair or a new roof.
If you’ve noticed your roof shingles are curled or buckling, they’re past their life expectancy. Shingles should lay flat against your roof. With wear and tear from storms, sunlight, and temperature changes, shingles can break down – and curling and buckling are the visible signs of this.
Corroded or Damaged Roof Valleys
Your roof’s valleys are key in keeping your home and its interior protected from the outdoor elements. When it rains, the valleys carry water into your gutters and ensure it drains properly. When it snows, the valleys do the same.
But if your roof valleys are corroded, damaged, or blocked with debris, water and snow could be sitting in these valleys and causing deeper problems. When roof valleys become corroded or compromised, they can begin to leak. And those leaks could begin to leach into your ceilings inside your home.
The Age of Your Roof
Even if your roof looks like it’s in great condition when you perform spot checks, you should consider the age of the roof. How long ago was it installed? When was the last time it was repaired or updated?
The age of your roof can be a big warning sign. According to Angie’s List, a typical roof lasts between 20 and 25 years.4 After this point, a roof can become increasingly problematic and weak – even if it looks okay on the surface. Older roofs may have damage, could be eroding, and may even not have proper ventilation.
Soft Spots on Your Roof
If you’re up on your roof, you’ll want to look for soft spots. Any area that feels soft or spongy to the touch is a soft spot – and these areas of a roof are a huge warning sign that big problems lie ahead.
Soft spots, according to Consumer Affairs, can indicate that the plywood beneath your roof is rotting. Whether you find soft spots under shingles or out in the open, these dangerous little areas of your roof can lead to leaks, holes, and even injuries when someone is on your roof.5
Hire a Professional to Repair or Replace Your Roof
If your home’s roof is showing any of the above warning signs, it’s time to take action. Letting your roof continue to age and erode could put you – and your home – in danger of disaster. An old or damaged roof could collapse and destroy the integrity of your home, leaving you with an expensive and difficult problem.
You can prevent a crisis like this before it happens. When you notice any warning signs of a bad roof, you need to take action. You need to get your roof fixed, and the best way to do this is to find a roofing company or contractor.
A roofing company or roofing contractor can assess your roof and determine how much work needs to be done. These professionals can then give you a price estimate and handle the job, whether you need repairs or a new roof.
In order to find the right roofing company or contractor, you’ll need to search online. Look for experienced roofing professionals in your area, and make sure to read reviews and compare their services. You can often get a free quote before choosing a roofing contractor, so you’ll want to reach out in your search to determine which options are within your budget.
You could even get a tax credit for replacing your roof. It’s possible that replacing your roof could help you get a tax credit of 10 percent or up to $5006.
Taking the time to search for a roofing company or contractor can save you significantly when you’re in need of roofing repairs or a new roof. If you compare all of your choices, you can choose the best one for your home and your budget.