Top 8 Signs Your Roof Needs to be Replaced: A Homeowner’s Guide

Your roof is the first line of defense between your family and the elements. A great roof enhances your curb appeal, protects your home, and helps with energy efficiency. But nothing lasts forever. Eventually, you’ll see signs that you need a new roof.

Most experts agree that a roof can last between 18 and 20 years. With excellent maintenance and some good luck, a roof can last even longer. During this time, your roof takes damage from elements like:

• Rain
• Snow
• Hail
• Heat

Over time, these elements can cause noticeable damage to your roof. Depending on the type and extent of the damage, you may need a roof replacement. This process might involve installing a new roof on top of the existing one or removing the existing roof and replacing it.

How can you know that it’s time to contact a roof replacement contractor in New Jersey?

The most common signs that a roof needs to be replaced are:

• Eroded shingles
• Granules in gutters
• Discoloration
• Signs of water damage
• Damaged flashings
• Leaks
• Sagging roof deck
• Increased energy bills

Not sure if your roof has one or more of these signs of damage? Read on to learn more about each problem and how to detect it.

1. Eroded Shingles

Over time, the elements can cause the asphalt layer of some shingles to separate from the backing material. When this happens, you might see shingles that are:

• Curling up from the end
• Cracked
• Darker than normal
• Dirty
• Noticeably moist
• Or missing completely

All of these are signs that the shingles need to be replaced. If there are only a few shingles like this, you may only need a repair. However, if there are shingles across your roof with these problems, you’ll be better off with a full roof replacement.

2. Granules in Gutters

After the next rainstorm, check your gutters. You may see granules from your roof. These granules look like large grains of sand.

If you see these granules, it could be another sign that the asphalt has separated from the backing material. Eventually, this will lead to bald shingles. The more granules you see, the more severe the damage is. A lot of granules means that you will likely need a full roof replacement.

3. Discoloration of Roofing Materials

When a roof is installed, the color should be consistent across the home. It really adds to the curb appeal of the home, and it’s a sign of a well-functioning roof. Over time, shingles can wear down and cause inconsistent coloring.

If some sections of your roof are a different color than others, it’s time to call a trusted roofing contractor. The discoloration means that granules have eroded, and the shingles are close to the end of their lifespan. Small sections of discoloration may only require a repair job. Widespread discoloration is a sign that you need a full roof replacement.

4. Signs of Water Damage

If you notice signs of moisture, rot, or mold on your shingles, you should call a roofing contractor quickly. Water damage doesn’t just affect the problematic shingles. Sometimes, the water flows down under other shingles as well.

When this happens, mold, fungi, and bacteria can grow quickly. All of these can harm the health of people and pets living in the home. It’s important to address this issue as soon as possible.

5. Damaged Flashing

Roof flashing is the thin, durable material that roofers add around critical areas of the roof. The flashing redirects water away from these areas. You will likely find flashing around your chimney, vents, and skylights.

While flashing can do its job well for many years, it doesn’t last forever. With enough damage, the fasteners can come loose. This means that water can seep into your roof around these areas. Also, flashing can become rusty, which is another clear sign of damage.

6. Leaks

Perhaps the most obvious sign that it’s time to call a roofing contractor is a leak. If there’s water coming into your home from your roof, call a contractor immediately.

However, not all leaks are obvious. A leak may not look like it does in the movies, with a bucket filling with water. Instead, a leak might show up as a water trail, moisture buildup, or dark spots. If damage is only in one small place, a repair might be enough. But water damage in several areas of the home may mean it’s time for a full roof replacement.

7. Sagging Roof Deck

When you look at your roof, is it straight? Or does it sag in some places? Any dips, sagging, or curving is a reliable sign that your roof has serious damage. Often, these problems arise because of extensive water damage. It’s best to contact a local, trusted roofing company quickly.

8. Higher Energy Bills

Have you noticed that your electricity bill is creeping up? There are many reasons this can happen. One of the primary concerns is that heating or cooling your home has become less efficient.

Sometimes, this means there’s something wrong with the roof. Your air-conditioned or heated air can escape through damaged roofing. If you’re shocked every time you see your electricity bill, it might be time to make sure your roof is in working order.

If you live in Monmouth, Middlesex, Mercer, or Ocean County New Jersey, and are in need of a reliable roof replacement company, look no further than Home Makeover LLC. We provide expert roof replacement services in central New Jersey. Contact us today for a free estimate and inspection!