When is the last time you took a good look at your roof? If the answer is more than two years ago, or if you’re concerned that a recent storm possibly caused damage, you’re in the right place. This article will help you identify the signs of roof damage and determine whether you should consider replacing your roof.
As a homeowner, your roof is your first line of defense against Florida’s intense sun, heavy rains, and hurricanes. The age of your roof is what most people think about when determining the right time to replace a roof. Asphalt shingle roofs typically last 20-25 years in our tropical climate. Other materials like metal, tile, or slate can last longer but still require regular inspections.
However, there are factors that can accelerate the aging of your roof. To best protect your home, it’s important to be informed about what to look for when assessing your roof. How do you know if your roof needs to be replaced sooner than expected? This guide will help you spot the warning signs that you need to act now to protect your home.
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- Your shingles have visible damage.
With our humid climate, keeping an eye on your shingles should be a regular home maintenance item on your to do list. Observe all sides of your roof from different angles. If your shingles are beginning to curl or crack, or if you are missing shingles entirely, these are signs of advanced wear that may also be causing leaks inside your home.
If you see bald spots where granules have worn away, your shingles are nearing the end of their useful life. Especially here in central Florida, you may find these granules in your gutters which is very common after a big storm. If your shingles are experiencing any signs of wear, it’s worth having a licensed residential roofer inspect it for you.
- Your shingles have visible damage.
- You’ve got moss or algae growth.
With our climate, it’s also no surprise that we can find moss or algae growing on our roofs. While not always immediately harmful, extensive moss or algae growth can retain moisture and lead to roof damage over time. It’s advisable to resolve any small issues with moss or algae before they become larger ones.
- You’ve got attic issues.
When you inspect your roof, be sure to also inspect it from inside your home. In your attic, you’ll want to look for these warning signs that damage is already happening.
- You’re seeing daylight through roof boards. This also means that water can enter your attic and home the same way.
- You notice water stains. Dark stains on wood or insulation suggest active leaks.
- Your roof is sagging. A sagging roof indicates structural weakness and requires immediate professional attention. This could be due to long-term water damage or poor ventilation, both common issues in our region.
If you can’t access your attic, or if you don’t have one, look up for water stains and sagging ceilings which can also indicate potential roof damage. If you’re experiencing any of these issues from inside your home, you should contact a roofing company nearby that offers free estimates, like we do.
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- You’ve seen a sudden spike in your energy bills.
An unexplained increase in energy bills could be related to roof issues. You might be seeing higher cooling costs, or maybe your air conditioning system seems to be running constantly for no apparent reason.
Increased utility bills are often the first sign that tells homeowners of a possible roof problem. If your roof is damaged, it’s very likely that your insulation has also been compromised. Unwanted heat may be entering your home, causing your A/C to work at maximum capacity and your utility bills to skyrocket.
- You’ve seen a sudden spike in your energy bills.
- The regulations in your area have changed.
Because of our likelihood of significant storms, there are many building codes and laws to protect homeowners from experiencing roof (and home) damage. These regulations change often, so you will find that having an experienced roofing contractor who is up to speed on the latest laws will prove incredibly valuable.
If your roof was installed before March 1, 2009, your roof might not meet current hurricane resistance standards. In 2020, the level of wind pressure that a roof is required to withstand was increased again, indicating the importance of replacing a roof that has not met minimum wind standards. You should consider a roof replacement sooner rather than later.
There are also new requirements for roof underlayment (2023) that impact all roofing material types, including slate, asphalt, and metal. In Florida, all new roofs must now have two layers of underlayment. This requirement will improve your roof’s water and wind resistance to severe storms.
We recommend to our homeowners that they inspect their roof every year or two to look for signs of potential damage. After any significant weather event, you should consider getting a professional roofer to inspect your roof for you.
We work with roofing every day and know how to spot the warning signs early before they become a problem. Schedule time and get a free estimate.
Recognizing these warning signs can help you determine when it’s the right time for a new roof. Regular inspections and responding quickly to any issues can extend your roof’s lifespan and protect your home from potential damage. If you observe any of these warning signs, consult with a licensed roofing company to assess your roof’s condition and discuss replacement options if necessary.
There are other great benefits to replacing your roof beyond protecting your home’s interior and preventing water damage, like:
- Maintaining the structural integrity of your home
- Improving energy efficiency, crucial in our hot climate
- Enhancing your home value and curb appeal
- Ensuring compliance with current Florida building codes
Remember, a well-maintained roof is essential for the overall health and safety of your home, especially in Florida’s challenging climate. By being proactive and addressing roofing issues quickly with the help of a licensed roofer, you can ensure your home remains protected and beautiful for years to come.
Finding signs of roof damage? Ask us for a free evaluation