Replacing a roof is often a task at the back of our minds. After all, unless you have a bucket in your kitchen catching water from an actual hole, it’s easy to forget the roof is there. We don’t notice it as we go about our daily lives because it’s always above our heads, and until something drastic happens, we assume it’s working. It’s important to pay attention to the health of our roofs as problems can sneak up on us well before storm season. Here are five reasons that you should consider replacing your roof so you never need that bucket.

Age

How long has it been since your roof was last replaced? The average roof has a lifespan of approximately twenty years. Around that mark, you may start to see missing shingles, broken shingles, or shingles that are curled, cupped, or ‘bald’ (shingles that have lost their granules). Each of these issues can lead to bigger problems down the road. A roof inspector will be able to tell you if your roof is old enough to be replaced.

Severe Storm Damage

Depending on where you are located, storm damage will differ. One of the most common causes for roof damage is hail. Mild hailstorms may cause damage that appears as tiny dimples in your shingles, and a spot repair of those areas can do the trick. Major hailstorms, on the other hand, can destroy whole shingles and actually damage the underlying roof structure. With hail comes wind, which can blow shingles right off their foundations or blow debris across the house. Another major cause of roof damage is hurricanes. Hurricanes often come with large wind bursts and a large amount of rainfall, which promotes loose and missing or damaged shingles. It can also cause your waterproof underlayment damage and seep water into the attic, which can quickly begin to rot and mold. Be sure to schedule a roof inspection as quickly as possible after a major storm, as there may be a line for the inspectors!

Premature Wear & Tear

Sunny climates are great for shorts weather and BBQs but can be terrible for your roof. Just imagine what too much sun can do to your skin without sunscreen – it gets burned, dries out, and starts to crack while it heals. The same thing can happen with your roof. Heat from the sun may fade and crack shingles, while the dry air can warp shingles or cause them to start crumbling. If your roof begins to fade or you find granules in your gutters, it may be time to bring out the inspector for a closer look.

Curb Appeal

Even if your roof isn’t quite old enough to be replaced, sometimes it’s worth replacing early if you’re planning to put your house on the market. A brand new roof greatly reduces the apparent age of your house, and if you replace it early, you won’t need to haggle because a buyer insists upon it. A new roof increases the value of your home, reduces the likelihood of problems being discovered during inspection, and will bring more buyers to your door.

Attic Health

Surprisingly, one of the first places to check the health of your roof is in your attic. Light and air coming through the roof means that the issue is structural, and can lead to other problems like mold and high heating/air conditioning bills. If you can feel a draft or see light in your attic, it’s time to call in the professionals.

The health of your roof represents the health of your entire home. Replacing a roof can seem like a hassle, but with CMR on your side, we take care of everything from inspection to installation. Be sure to call us today for a free roof inspection!