Replace your roof
One of the most important parts of your home to be structurally sound is the roof. If you are unsure whether your roof needs repair, look for any of these six signs to see if it’s time to replace your roof.
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Start on the inside
Before even looking on the outside, the first place you should check is in the attic. Climb under the eaves and look for beams of light coming through the top of the house. You should also look for any stains or streaks, which can be a result of a leaky roof.
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Look for paperwork
Review home improvement records to see when the home last had the roof replaced or reshingled. Typically, a shingle roof will last 20 to 25 years. If your home has an additional layer of shingles on top of the original, it should be replaced after 20 years.
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Check the shingles
Shingles on a roof should lie flat against a roof. If you find patches with cracked, damaged, or buckling shingles, this is a sign you should replace your roof. Missing shingles is another sign that the roof needs to be repaired. While checking the shingles, look in the gutters and downspouts for shingle granules. If there are a lot of granules, it’s likely that your roof is nearing the end of its life.
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Drooping and sagging
A drooping and sagging roof indicates that a roof should be replaced as soon as possible before any further damage to your home is incurred. Check for rotting boards or sagging spots, especially in the low points of your roof.
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Moss
Moss (and mold and fungi) suggests there might be trapped moisture, which can ruin a roof. Use a stiff brush to get rid of any moss that’s collecting in shady corners. Be careful not to cause further damage to the roof.
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Keep Calm
Not everything means that you need to get your full roof replaced. A few damaged shingles or you have a tiny leaky doesn’t mean you must get a whole new roof. A roof that’s been properly installed and is younger than 15 or 20 years will likely be able to get by a small repair. If you are concerned, contact a licensed roofing contractor.
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