Along with the foundation, the roof, floor and walls are important to the structural integrity of a building. Roof damage can compromise the safety of a building and shouldn’t be overlooked. It’s not easy to ignore a leaking, sagging or rotting roof.
If the roof problem is minor, it can likely be fixed. It could be time to consider a new roof if the damage is extensive. The following signs may indicate you need a new roof:
1) The Age of Your Roof
Typically, if your roof is 20 years old or more, it’s time to replace it. If you’re not the original homeowner and don’t readily have this information available, check with your real estate agent, or when possible, the seller. This type of knowledge about your home can be extremely useful and helpful in assessing problems and exploring solutions.
2) Visible Stains and Streaks
When stains and streaks are visible inside your home, it’s likely a sign of water damage. If these noticeable signs cover a large part of the roof, it may be necessary to replace it.
3) Drips
If you discover water dripping into your house through the roof, consider getting a new one. Even if just one hole is present in your roof, the fact that it has degenerated to this point indicates serious damage.
4) Rotting
Noticeable rotting can be common on wooden and asphalt roofs and is another indicator of severe damage that may warrant an entire roof replacement. Visible signs might include shingles that are missing, cracked, buckling or curling.
5) Shingle Debris in Your Gutter
You are definitely in need of a new roof if you start to see bits of shingles in your gutter. This indicates your roof has decayed to the point of falling off bit by bit. When this happens, your roof will eventually cave in.
6) Damaged Flashing and Chimney
Flashing is typically seen at chimney bases. Made of either roof cement or tar, flashing is more prone to water damage. Replacing with a metal flashing system is advised.
7) Roof Valley Damage
This refers to the part where two parts of a roof meet. Damage often exists here because of rainwater and snow passing through these points, traveling to the gutters.
Questions To Ask Your Roofer
If you see any of the signs of serious damage above, you should not waste any time bringing in a roofer. Delays could result in causing injury or damage. Before settling on a roofer, you need to do your due diligence. Some questions you might ask include:
- What kind of roof is recommended and why?
- Does your company carry workers’ compensation and liability insurances that protect homeowners in case of an accident?
- Do you use subcontractors? If so, are they licensed and insured as well?
- Do you have the required licensing? You will want to confirm this is current and void of outstanding violations. This is different from a business license. Back this up with a search on Better Business Bureau.
- How long are any roof warranties and guarantees you offer? You should be given a manufacturer’s warranty for the products that will be used, and a service guarantee from the roofer for the work. The first will typically be a 10-year non-prorated warranty plus a lifetime warranty on defects.
- How long have you been in business and can you provide references?
- Will you remove the compound of junk and debris when the job is done?
Conclusion
Horizon Roofing and Construction provides a full range of CertainTeed Shingles and accessories. These come with an Industry-Leading Warranty and non-prorated SureStart program. This construction and home improvement team is fully certified and insured, and have followed Best Practice guidelines since starting over 25 years ago. All work done by Northville’s #1 roofing company is backed by a 10-year labor guarantee.
Get your free roof evaluation and you’ll be given an estimate for your roof repair or replacement based on what is found. Recent ratings and customer testimonials tell a story of getting the job done with excellence and on time, while the portfolio shows what can be done. To ensure your home stays dry and structurally sound around Metro Detroit, call Horizon Roofing and Construction for all your roofing needs.