Have you been wondering when to replace your roof? Are you worried that as winter settles in your home might not be as protected as it could be? If so, the professionals at EC Roofing & Home Services have put together a handy guide with tips to let you know that it might be time.
When to Replace Your Roof: Looking Inside
If you have been wondering when to replace your roof, there are a few steps you can take to assess things on your own before you get out the ladder and take a trip to the roof itself. Among these are:
- Check your records. How long has it been since someone last repaired your roof? Did the previous owners leave any record of damage or any evidence that the roof has been repaired or replaced recently? Knowing when your roof was installed, what the building materials are, and when it was last reshingled are critical pieces of information that can give you clues as to its overall condition. And you can make this kind of assessment of when to replace your roof from the comfort of your home!
- Look in the attic. The damage that is caused by a leaking roof or a roof that is otherwise in need of repair is rarely limited to what you can see from the outside of your house. That means dusting off your flashlight and heading into the attic to see if there are any observable traces of water damage. This water damage might present in the form of rotting beams, but it more likely will involve the presence of stains on the wood, or streaks. If you notice any areas where the light is coming in, it is also time to consult a roofer.
When to Replace Your Roof: Looking Outside
If you are wondering when to replace your roof, however, it is also a good idea to have someone look at your roof. If the conditions are right, you can also do this yourself, although if you decide to do so, you must do so when it is safe. Here are some things to look for — some of which you can do from the ground — that can help you determine when to replace your roof:
- Check for plant life. We all know what plants — including mosses, lichens, and fungi — need to grow. And one of the key ingredients for cultivating plant life is something that you do not want anywhere near your roof: water. If you see patches of moss or other signs of growth on your roof, it might be a sign that there is water trapped below the surface. This trapped water can cause massive amounts of structural damage to your roof, but worse, it might mean damage to your foundation.
- Look for sagging. A drooping, sagging, or uneven roof is often the result of rotten wood. This kind of damage is, once again, most often caused by trapped water or moisture.
- Check your shingles. Are all of your shingles lying flat, even after a storm has passed? Do any seem warped, cracked, or otherwise damaged? Have you found evidence that shingles have been stripped of their sediment, or have come off entirely?
Reach Out to the Experienced Team at EC Roofing & Home Services Today
Determining when to replace your roof is not always easy. But if you have looked into even one or two of the above and think it might be time, don’t hesitate. A call to EC Roofing always involves a free assessment of the condition of your roof and of what work needs to be done. We’re here to take care of all of your roofing needs whatever the weather, so contact us today at 410-455-9880 and put your mind at ease.
