A worn or damaged roof can pose a significant problem for your home. Unfortunately and in many cases, the longer the problem goes unresolved, the worse the scenario (and the cost of fixing it) is ultimately going to be. However, some roofs last longer than others, barring any causes of unexpected damage.
- A Roof Leak
If you enter your attic after a strong storm and find a puddle of water, then your roof most likely has a leak. Roof leaks are most commonly caused by damaged or missing shingles, deteriorated flashing, poorly installed underlayment, or a breach caused by a falling tree branch or other debris. Depending on the severity of the leak, you may be able to have it patched and temporarily fixed. But if the leak is significant, then a roof replacement will likely be needed.
- Stains on the Ceiling of Wall
If you don’t enter your attic, the leak will eventually work its way through the ceiling or down the walls. When this happens, the ceiling or wall will become stained. If the problem isn’t fixed, it will weaken your ceiling to the point of falling, and potentially cause dangerous mold to form inside your home.
- Exterior Roof and/or Siding Decay
Over time, a leaky roof will start swelling with the absorption of water and this will cause the roof, its sheathing, and/or the siding on that part of the home to start decaying.
- Blistering or Peeling Paint Inside or Outside of the Home
If there is poor ventilation in the attic and moisture is becoming trapped, then this will eventually cause the home’s interior or exterior paint to start to blister or peel.
- Dark Spots or Fungus on the Roof
It is not uncommon for some roofs to develop dirty looking spots or to have fungus growing on the surface. While this isn’t a definite warning sign that you need a new roof, it can be. The cause of the problem could be that your roof is just not getting enough sunlight, or it could be that the roof is retaining moisture. If it is the latter, then the roof should be replaced.
- Cracked, Curled, or Missing Shingles
Cracked, curled, or missing shingles are among the most common problems homeowners face regarding their roofs. Simply checking your roof from time to time, especially after a wind-driven rainstorm, will help you discover the problem before it worsens. Act quickly enough, and you may be able to have the bad patch fixed and avoid having to replace the entire roof.
- Excessively High Energy Bills
If your roof is poorly ventilated, then one of the signs is excessively high energy bills. The hot air and moisture will be trapped in the attic, reducing the effectiveness of your insulation.
How Long Do Roofs Last?
Different roofing materials have different expected lifespans. For instance, a roof with fiber cement shingles typically lasts about 25 years, while copper, slate, and tile roofs can last up to 50 years. Wood shake roofs last about 30 years, and roofs with asphalt/composition shingles will usually need replacing after 20 years. These are estimates, depending on several factors. Your roof may last longer or shorter, but if you pay attention, every roof will give you warning signs about when it’s time for a new roof.
Why Choose Thompson Creek For Your Roofing Needs?
Thompson Creek uses science to give you much more than a new roof. Our specially designed roofing system provides homeowners an added layer of protection because it not only allows the home to breathe, but it also sheds and repels snow and ice easier than standard roofing systems. If your roof is showing one or more of the above warning signs and it needs to be replaced, don’t wait, contact the roofing professionals at Thompson Creek and get a free estimate for your roof replacement today.