Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home. It protects you from the elements and keeps your family safe and dry. That’s why it’s so important to pay attention to the condition of your roof and to call a roofing contractor when necessary. But how can you tell when it’s time to call a pro?
Age
If your roof is more than 20 years old, it’s time to start thinking about replacing it. Any shingle roof will begin to age out of its optimal life span in 20-25 years. If yours is getting up there in age, it’s time to start thinking about a replacement. Of course, that doesn’t mean you need to replace your roof immediately. Just be aware that it may need to be replaced soon and start budgeting for it.
Leaks
Are you seeing telltale discoloration on your ceiling? That likely means water has made its way into your home – and roof leaks are a common cause. Damaged shingles or torn flashing may leave gaps in the barrier between inside your home and the outdoors, while obstructions in gutters can also be to blame. An inspection from professionals will help determine what needs fixing so that everything is back up and running properly again.
Shingle Damage
If you notice any missing shingles, or shingles experiencing severe granular loss, it’s time to call a roofing contractor. Missing or buckling shingles are a recipe for disaster, and another sign that your roof needs to be replaced.
A less well-known sign of roof damage is granular loss. Shingle granules play a vital role in the preservation of your roof. They prevent your roof from being overexposed to the sun, in turn prolonging the need for another roof replacement. The snow and ice from this winter could take some extra granules with it, and, may expose previously undetectable damage from a summer weather event.
This sounds technical, but thankfully, you won’t have to get up on your roof to inspect for excessive granular loss when all the snow melts. Loose granules flow into your gutters with the water and pile up in your downspouts or directly onto the ground. If you inspect your downspouts and notice large amounts of granules, you may have an issue. Another easy way to detect granular loss is by simply looking at your roof when the snow melts for discoloration or light spots.
If left unaddressed, missing shingles or heavy granular loss can lead to leaks and other serious problems. So, if you notice any either of these, don’t hesitate to give your local roofing contractor a call. If you live in an area recently impacted by severe weather like hail or wind, your damaged shingles may warrant an isnurance claim.
Severe Weather
If you live in an area that is prone to severe weather, it’s important to have your roof inspected regularly by a professional. Minnesota is no stranger to severe weather conditions, including high winds, heavy snowfall, and hailstorms. In fact, Minnesota ranks 4th nationally in number of severe storm events. Only Texas, Colorado, and Nebraska have more severe storms than we do here in Minnesota. Having your roof inspected regularly by a professional will ensure that any damage is caught early and repaired before it becomes a bigger problem.
Value
If you’re thinking about selling your home, having a new roof installed can increase the value of your property. If you’re planning on putting your house on the market soon, having a new roof installed can be a great way to increase its value. Buyers are always looking for houses with new roofs because they know they won’t have to worry about repairs or replacements for many years down the road. So, if you’re thinking about selling your house, consider having a new roof installed first—it could really pay off!
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, so it’s essential to pay attention to its condition and call a professional when necessary. By being aware of the signs that indicate you need a new roof, such as leaks, missing shingles, bare spots, or severe weather damage, you can ensure that your family stays safe and dry for years to come. And if you’re thinking about selling your house soon, having a new roof installed could really increase its value! So don’t wait—if you think there might be something wrong with your roof, give your local contractor a call today!
Turn to the Pros at Shelter Construction
At Shelter, we perform free inspections and consultations. We will perform minor repairs during the examination to small damage that we find. Call us at 612-284-6985 or schedule an inspection today on our website!