Have you ever wondered if you'll ever require a roof replacement for your house? Well, like it or not, the answer is yes, eventually! Don't worry, though; it's not like a car where you'll have to have your tires changed every three to five years to ensure your safety.

But what exactly necessitates having the entire top of your house changed? Here are three signs to look for.

 

What Type of Roof Do You Have?

Roof contractors use different kinds of roof materials. Here are some of the usual materials that are used on roofs, as well as their projected life spans:

• Asphalt Shingles: around 15-30 years.
• Metal: around 30 all the way up to 75 years. It will depend on the metal, though.
• Composite or composition shingles: 12 to 50 years. Composite shingles are made of recycled materials that look like regular asphalt shingles but are sturdier.
• Cedar: Since it's made of natural wooden materials, you have to ensure it is made of quality materials. It's also better if you live in a climate that doesn't have many weather changes. It can last for 30-50 years.
• Slate: It's one of the sturdiest options for a roof. Roof experts claim that it might be the last roof you put on your home as long as it's installed properly. It might even outlive your children! It's known to last from 75 all the way to 100 years.

These are merely suggested time frames. It will still depend on the climate that your roof is exposed to. The more storms and winters occur, the more likely you'll need a roof replacement in a shorter period.

 

Has the Roof Been Damaged?

You may not see it, but your roof can get damaged. After all, it's constantly exposed to changing weather and critters that hang out in the sky.

What are the signs of damage that you should look out for? Some of these are:

• Shingles that are loose, cracked, or are missing
• Any part of the roof that is sagging
• Molding or rotting parts of the roof
• Any stains or other signs of water damage
• Holes in the roof

To really see if it has been damaged, it is recommended that you take a look at it yourself. Of course, if you're afraid of heights, get someone to do it for you or hire a local roofing contractor

If you can't get someone to go up and look at your roof, one way you can go about this is to check your attic or the top floor of your house. Look for small holes which let in sunlight or water. If there are no holes, you can look for water damage or signs of a sagging ceiling. These could all mean your roof is damaged.

Another way is to check your gutters and the area around your home. If there are pieces of roof shingles in those areas, you definitely need to have your roof replaced.

 

How Old is Your Roof?

Do you know when your roof was installed? If you own where you currently live, keeping track of when the house was constructed is good. On the other hand, if you're renting, it's best to find out from the homeowner.

The reason for this is that the usual lifespan of any roof is around 20 years. Suppose you find out that your roof is older than 20 years. In that case, it's time to get a professional consultation with a roofer or home inspector. That's when you'll find out if you need a new roof.

 

Final Thoughts

To sum things up, it's essential to watch for the signs that indicate the need for a new roof. These include knowing the material your roof is made in, how much it has been exposed to the element, and how old it is. Make sure to also keep an eye on the highest floor in your house to see telltales of any roof damage.

If you think your roof needs to be fixed, consult a professional, and don't make repairs alone. You'll be able to avoid further damage, stay protected, and ensure the longevity of your home.