As a homeowner, you understand the importance of home maintenance and upkeep. Catch problems before they become much bigger problems consuming time and money. Your roof is perhaps the most important home system to keep an eye on. When you spot issues with the roof, such as damaged or missing shingles, a quick repair is often the best remedy. However, if you’re questioning if a roof repair or roof replacement is warranted, it’s best to do a little homework or even contact a roofing contractor. What follows are seven signs to watch out for that signal you may need a roof replacement for the long-term integrity of your home.

Shingles Are Missing

Missing asphalt or wood shingles is an easy roof problem to spot. It’s also an easy diagnosis that you need a roof replacement. If one or more shingles have deteriorated to the point that they blow away during a storm, there are likely more shingles to follow. Moreover, missing shingles open up a potentially prodigious roofing problem that could lead to costly water damage inside your home.

Damaged, Curling, Or Clawing Shingles

Curling and clawing shingles are not a good sign. Curling shingles is when edges curl up. Clawing shingles are when the edges curl down and the middle of the shingle buckles up. If either of these problems are occurring to just a few shingles, you may be alright with replacing them. If curling or clawing is more widespread, you’re better off with a roof replacement.

Damage from shingles cracking from windy weather over time is another common problem with older shingles. The roof should be inspected to determine how much of your roof has sustained storm damage or weather-worn over time.

Roof Is Sagging

A sagging roof is a problem that should be resolved right away. Sagging in roof valleys and dips, which is where rainwater and show tend to accumulate, could lead to serious damage to your home. Sagging could be from deteriorating roof decking and/or problems with supports in the attic and foundation. If you notice sagging in your roof, have it inspected right away.

Granules In Gutter Downspouts

During the manufacturing process of asphalt shingles, an outer layer of granules is added. These granules are typically made of minerals, mineral fibers, or metals. The purpose of shingle granules is to protect the asphalt shingles from too much exposure to UV light, which damages asphalt shingles over time. In addition to UV protection, metal granules help prevent algae growth.

If you see granules in downspouts or other places around your home where rainwater runs off the roof, you have a roofing problem on your hands. Call your GAF Master-Elite™ contractor to inspect your roof. Loose granules are signs of an aging roof that needs to be replaced. Granules may also come loose if someone is walking on your roof that isn’t a pro local roofer and not experienced at this.

Sunlight Through Roof Decking

The attic is actually a great place to spot roof problems. If there are roof leaks, there are going to be water spots and/or water damage to attic timber, insulation, and other materials. Another common sign that you need a roof replacement is sunlight peeking through roof decking. If sunlight can get through your roof, so can water!

Signs of Roof Leaks

If you have water leaks in your home, don’t ignore them. This may seem a silly point to make to some readers. However, many people do ignore water leaks, perhaps, hoping for the best or not prepared at the moment to confront a possibly expensive problem. It’s understandable, and it happens quite often. The best step to take if you spot water stains in your home or water leaks is to call your roofing contractor. Many roofing contractors will inspect your roof free of charge with no obligation—especially following storm damage. Water leaks could also come from plumbing problems. It’s better to know the water leak source so you can begin planning the best solution.

Less Resilient To Storms

The lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof depends on a number of factors. The first factor is the quality of installation, followed by regular upkeep, making timely repairs, and the quality of roofing materials used. Generally speaking, an asphalt shingle roof lasts around 15 to 20 years in our Wisconsin and Illinois region.

As a roof ages, it becomes less resilient to storms. Any weak spots in the roof will be exploited by the elements, such as wind-driven storms, hail, snow, and ice. When a weak spot begins to unravel, such as missing shingles, sagging, loose flashing, it undermines the entire roofing system and makes the system as a whole all the more vulnerable. If your roof is getting up in years, get a professional roof inspection to see what are your best options for roof care or roof replacement.

If your roof has any of these seven signs of roof problems, contact the roof replacement pros at Aurum Contracting. We’ll give you an honest, accurate, and comprehensive roof inspection and estimate. We stand behind our roof replacements with our 5 Year Gold Standard Warranty for craftsmanship. Contact us online or by calling (608) 312-4343 today!