As signs your shingles roofs last around 20 years, provided that weather or other external factors don’t reduce that expected lifespan. Still, you may be unsure whether your shingled roof is due for a replacement, especially if storms have hit your home hard or decades have passed since the roof was last replaced.
If you wonder whether your home is due for a new roof, then you should know a few clues that will help you make a decision. Below are four signs that your asphalt shingle roof is nearing or has passed the end of its useful life.
1. Missing Granules
Asphalt shingles are constructed from asphalt-impregnated base materials, such as paper or wood fibers, and contain a thin layer of finely crushed rock or ceramic granules that protects the shingles from sun, rain, and snow. If this layer disappears, the shingles will begin to quickly deteriorate and lose their ability to withstand environmental stressors.
The absence of granules is a good indicator your shingles are in need of replacement. You can visually inspect your roof for granule loss while standing on a ladder or use binoculars from the ground to check on the state of your shingles. Noticeable bald spots are a sign that your roof has suffered damage and will need to be replaced.
In addition, you can also take a look inside gutters or beneath the drip line of your roof for signs of granule accumulation. Roof granules resemble sand, so differentiating between the two may be difficult and may require the help of a roofing professional.
2. Damaged or Missing Shingles
Another sign your roof may need replacement is the presence of damaged shingles. Such damage can include shingles with curled edges that won’t lay flat against the roof’s surface or may entail cracked or torn shingles. Shingles in this condition are probably drying out and will not be able to hold up much longer against the sun and rain.
If shingles are missing, then the evidence is even stronger that your roof is near the end of its useful life. Though one missing shingle may seem insignificant, the reality is that a small gap can permit water to intrude and cause damage to your home. Old, dried shingles often tear through at the spot where they are nailed to the roof, so shingle loss is a significant problem.
3. Water Leaks
Even if your roof appears to be normal from a variety of perspectives, the presence of one or more leaks is a sign of a failing roof. Leaks can occur when shingles are no longer tightly held to the roof and water is able to find its way into openings around nails, rips, and other spaces.
You can check for water leaks by examining your roof from the underside in the attic. Turn off any lights you are using in the attic and ask a helper to shine a bright light on the rooftop side. If you spot any dots (pinpoints) of light, you can reasonably assume water has already been there; it is only a matter of time before leaks cause damage to your home.
4. Moss or Algae Growth
Another possible sign your shingles may need to be replaced is the presence of live moss or algae on the roof. While shingled roofs can withstand some growth, too much will destroy the fibers inside the shingles and make them unusable.
You may have to consult with a roofing specialist for assistance in handling moss or algae. If the roof can still be salvaged, then the company will provide information on killing and cleaning these living organisms.
Golden Spike Roofing is prepared to assist you in your efforts to determine whether your roof needs replacing and can give you useful feedback in the process. Our team of professionals and experts is ready to help with all your roof-related needs. Call us today to get started.