We all need a roof over our heads to protect us from the cold and heat. Unfortunately, most people put off checking their roof until it is too late when every time it rains, they have to get that old bucket! This increases repair costs, risk of injury, and property damage.

Plus, your entire home could be at risk if the roof doesn't function correctly. So you need to know when it's time to schedule a replacement. Here are five typical signs that indicate you should replace your roof:

#1 Age of Your Roof

The age of your roof is one of the most obvious signs that it needs to be replaced. Even if the roof still looks good, it's probably time to replace it if it's been around for a while.

Of course, other factors can also affect its lifespan, such as environmental factors or recent repairs. If you are not sure how old your roof is or whether it needs to be replaced, you should ask a professional for an assessment.

Normal Lifespan of Roofs

Even the best roofs wear out and reach the end of their useful life, ranging from 20 to 50 years, depending on the materials used. A shingle roof usually has about 20-30 years of life expectancy. In contrast, clay tiles can last more than 40 years, asphalt shingles 20 years, and metal roofs between 30 and 50 years.

Many homeowners make a common mistake. They think everything is okay because they have not noticed any problems with their roofs. But by the time they see the problem, it has gotten significantly worse, and it may already be too late.

#2 Missing Shingles

You can try to replace or repair the missing shingles by hand, but this will cause more trouble and a greater financial cost in the long run.

The roof's age, high winds from thunderstorms or snowstorms, or even damage from the debris can cause missing shingles. Depending on the number and location of the missing shingles, you should decide whether to replace your roof entirely or just replace some shingles.

Cracking Shingles

If your roof has lost one or more shingles, you should replace them immediately to prevent water leaks. But what about cracked and curled shingles?

Cracked and curled shingles are usually signs of weather damage. If the shingles are badly damaged, and your roof is about 20 years old, your roof is simply aging. In this case, you will likely need to replace it in the next few years.

In general, there are two types of curled shingles:

• Cupping: when the edges of a shingle curl upward, and it resembles a cup.

• Clawing: When the center of the shingle begins to bulge upward.

In both 3-tab or dimensional shingles, the curvature can allow water to penetrate through the roof sheathing and potentially cause a leak.

#3 Mold on Your Roof

A moldy roof is the last thing you want. So if you've noticed dark, streaky lines or green spots on the surface of your roof lately, you may need a complete replacement. These stains and streaks are usually from mold, fungus, or algae that can attack the structure and foundation of your ceiling.

Mold is a stubborn fungus. The deeper mold settles into your roof, the harder it is to remove. Eliminate mold as soon as possible if you discover it, or have a roofing company remove it. You need to address this problem promptly and efficiently.

It's Important to Remove Roof Mold

Mold can damage the structure of your home, including ceiling tiles, floorboards, and drywall. If it finds the opportunity, it can eventually cause your ceilings to collapse.

In addition, mold exposure can trigger sneezing and coughing. It can also cause severe allergic reactions or even permanent lung damage in extreme cases. People with asthma, respiratory or heart problems should be especially careful, as mold exposure can aggravate these conditions.

#4 Holes in Your Roof

Holes in your roof are one of the most obvious signs that it's time to replace your roof.

When you look at your attic, do you notice a leak or dripping water there? Or can you see that the roof joist is protruding through the roof? If so, you need to call a professional to replace your roof or fix the problem.

How long your roof lasts depends on many factors. Therefore, check regularly to make sure your roof is in perfect condition.

Signs of a Hole in the Roof

Check your ceiling for the following warning signs:

• Dripping water: when water drips from the attic, it indicates a hole in the roof, but it is usually not so easy to find where the hole is. It may be very far from the dripping point.

• Damp spots on the ceiling: surfaces in the attic or upstairs may feel wet or appear discolored. Unusual ceiling bulges and peeling paint are signs of a hole in the roof.

#5 Damaged Flashing

Flashing is installed around skylights, chimneys, vents, and other parts of buildings to weatherproof shingles, metal panels, or other materials. It seals various parts of the roofing system.

This usually involves a thin piece of tar, metal, or other waterproofing material on top of the roofing. You should check the flashing regularly, especially if you've leaks. Examine it for cracks or for signs of water intrusion in that area.

How Does Flashing Get Damaged?

Although flashings are designed to be strong, they can still crack, warp, and "chip." Common causes that can lead to severe damage to flashing include:

• Incomplete installation: flashing must be carefully installed on a new roof. Sloppy, incomplete work quickly leads to leaks.

• Bad repairs: well-trained professionals must repair flashings - using the right tools and sealants.

• Human error: Roof problems include damage caused by accidentally stepping on the wrong spot while cleaning or repairing the roof, which can cause dents and cracks.

Wrapping Up

A house is not habitable if the roof falls off. Proper roofing is critical to a safe home during extreme weather events. Knowing when your roof should be replaced is an essential step toward a safe home and ensures your property does not lose market value.

Contact us immediately if you notice one or more of the signs listed above. We will be happy to help you have the perfect roof for your residential or commercial property.