When to Replace Your Roof: Essential Signs and Considerations

Replacing your roof at the right time is key to protecting your property and wallet. In this guide, we’ll go over the signs that point to your roof being in need of a replacement and discuss how to tell if you need a new roof. Understanding when to replace your roof is crucial for maintaining your home’s integrity and avoiding costly damage.

How Often Should You Replace Your Roof?

Every roof has a lifespan, typically between 10-20 years for asphalt shingles, and 25-35+ years for metal & tile roofs. However, Florida’s harsh environment can shorten that lifespan. If your roof is nearing or exceeding its expected age, consider a replacement before leaks or structural damage occur. The frequency of roof replacement depends on various factors, including the roofing materials used and local climate conditions.

Determining Your Roof's Age

If you’re unsure of how old your roof is there are a few ways you can find out:

Check with the Previous Owner: It doesn’t hurt to ask the previous owner if they know how old the current roof is. You can also check the closing document if you purchased your home recently; sometimes the date of the previous roof replacement will be disclosed in this document.
Building Permit Records: Many Florida counties require permits for roof replacements. Contact your local building department and inquire about permits associated with your address. They might have the installation date on record.
Home Inspection Report: If you had a home inspection done before buying your house, the report might estimate the roof’s age based on its condition.
Contact Previous Roofing Company: If you know who previously did work on the roof, you can try reaching out to them, and they may still have records of the work done.
Roof Age Inspection: A professional roofing contractor can perforam a roof age inspection to estimate how old your roof is based on its current condition and materials used.

Warning Signs You Need a New Roof

Visible damage to your roof is the most obvious sign that your roof needs work done, but it’s not always an indicator that a full replacement is necessary. Sometimes damage can be isolated and easily fixed with a simple repair; other times, the damage is more serious and a new roof is necessary. Here are some warning signs you need a new roof to look out for when inspecting your roof for visible damage:

1. Missing or Damaged Shingles

A few missing shingles, especially near the edges, are less concerning than widespread shingle loss. When the damage is widespread, involves multiple layers of shingles, or your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, a full replacement is likely the best course of action. Bad roof shingles can compromise your roof’s ability to protect your home from the elements.

2. Curling or Cracked Shingles

Florida’s intense heat can cause shingles to curl and eventually crack. Curled and cracked shingles can expose the underlayment of your roof to the elements, increasing the risk of leaks and water damage. If you notice widespread curled or cracked shingles, your roof may be in need of a replacement. Buckling shingles are another sign of roof deterioration that shouldn’t be ignored.

3. Granule Loss (Asphalt Shingles Only)

Those tiny pebbles that sprinkle off your asphalt shingles is a natural occurrence. However, excessive granule loss can be a sign of trouble for your Florida roof. Granules on asphalt shingles act like a shield, reflecting sunlight and protecting the underlying asphalt from the sun’s harmful UV rays. They also add a layer of protection against hail and windblown debris. If you notice large amounts of loose granules in your gutters, on your roof, or on the ground near your home, that could be a sign your roof is in need of a replacement.

4. Moss or Algae Growth

Moss and algae growth on your Florida roof isn’t uncommon, but it’s not exactly welcome either. While they might seem like harmless guests, they can pose a threat to your roof’s health. Both moss and algae hold moisture against the shingles, creating a damp environment that can accelerate shingle deterioration. This constant moisture can lead to premature aging and cracking of the shingles, shortening your roof’s lifespan. Usually, moss/algae growth can be treated by just a roof cleaning, but there are cases where the buildup is widespread enough to be cause for a replacement. The only way to know for sure is to get a professional roof inspection.

Other Signs You Need Roof Repairs or Replacement

Roof Leaks

Roof leaks can be a sign of various issues, and not all leaks necessitate a complete roof replacement. If you have leaks in several areas of your roof, it suggests widespread deterioration. Replacing the entire roof might be the most cost-effective solution in the long run. Leaks around chimneys, vents, or skylights often point to problems with flashing (the material that creates a watertight seal). While a repair might suffice, extensive flashing issues could indicate underlying roof deck damage, necessitating a replacement.

Increased Energy Bills

Increased energy bills can actually be a sign that your roof is starting to fail and is in need of a replacement. If your energy bills have jumped significantly compared to previous months, especially during seasons when you wouldn’t expect a drastic change in usage (like mild autumns), it’s worth investigating. Over time, shingles lose their reflective properties and absorb more heat. This translates to your AC needing to work harder to keep your home cool, leading to higher bills. Make sure to rule out other factors such as increased energy usage, rates hikes, or change in thermostat settings. Factors such as poor insulation and roof ventilation can also be a culprit to high energy bills but generally don’t account for a sudden increase in your energy bill.

Sagging Roof

A drooping or sagging roof is a major sign that your roof is not in good shape. If you notice your roof is sagging, you should contact a roofing contractor to schedule an inspection ASAP. A sagging roof indicates a problem with the underlying structure that supports your roof deck and shingles. Over time, roof components like trusses, rafters, or sheathing can weaken due to age, moisture damage, or excessive weight. This weakness leads to sagging. Sagging can also be caused by water damage that has rotted the wooden components of your roof. This weakens the structure and leads to a drooping effect. A sagging roof is structurally compromised and could potentially collapse. This poses a safety risk to you and your family. Left unaddressed, a sagging roof will worsen, leading to more extensive (and expensive) repairs in the future.

Next Steps: Professional Inspection and Roof Replacement

Remember that everything in this guide is general advice and is not an adequate replacement for a professional roof inspection. Your first step should be to get professional inspections done by reputable Florida roofing companies. Get multiple estimates from reputable roofers to understand the project’s cost. Consider factors like material quality, roof size, and complexity. Explore financing options if needed. Some roofers offer financing plans, or consider a home equity loan.

When considering roof replacement, it’s essential to factor in the roof replacement cost, which can vary depending on the size of your roof, the roofing materials chosen, and the complexity of the job.

Interested in a Roof Replacement or Repair?

Kelly Roofing has provided Florida with high quality roofing services since 1972. Whether you need a replacement, repair, or are even interested in solar, we have you covered. Get Started today with a free estimate!

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