Roof replacement by West Michigan Roofing

Is your roof trying to tell you something?

There are many reasons for a roof replacement, but some are more common than others. If your roof is showing any of the signs on this list, it may be telling you it’s due for a replacement.

1. Cracked, Curling, or Missing Shingles

After enduring years of weather activity, shingles will show signs of wear, such as cracks or curling. Wind storms may blow weakened shingles off the roof. If only a few shingles on the roof are damaged or missing, a repair might do the trick. If the problem is more widespread, however, it’s in your best interest to think about getting a new roof. Besides being a natural result of age, curling shingles can also be a sign of poor attic ventilation, or subpar shingle installation, so don’t ignore this warning sign for long.

2. Granule Loss or “Balding” Shingles

The granules that give your roof texture and color also protect the asphalt shingles from the elements and UV rays. Though it’s normal for shingles to lose granules over time, granule loss becomes a problem when shingles become “bald.” This exposes the asphalt surface to the weather and the sun and increases the potential for your roof to sustain damage. If shingles are starting to look bald throughout your roof, or there’s a buildup of granules in your gutters, the roof might be ready for replacement.

3. Water Damage or Visible Leaks

This is pretty obvious, but any leak in your roof should be addressed immediately. If you suspect your roof may be leaking, check your attic and crawlspaces for signs of water damage, including soggy insulation, water stains, and warped wood. If you catch a leak early enough and your roof is not very old, the roof may only need a repair. If there’s a chance the leak has damaged the structure of your roof, merely patching over the area could create trouble down the road.

Why Should I Proactively Replace My Roof?

It's best to replace your roof before any of these issues get too serious. Waiting can cause things like mold, water damage, and insect or animal infestations, which then lead to structural damage. Strutuctural damage makes repairs and/or replacement more costly, to the tune of 10-15% more.

How Long Do Roofs Last?

Traditional asphalt roofing should be replaced every 12 to 20 years. If your residential roof is over 12 years old and experiencing any of these warning signs, it’s time to consider a new roof. At the very least, you should begin inspecting your roof once a year to stay ahead of any problems.

If you suspect your roof needs replacing or repair, schedule an inspection with West Michigan Roofing. While some roofing repairs truly can be a DIY project, there’s a chance that more is happening beneath the surface that could lead to bigger problems if ignored. A thorough inspection can give you peace of mind, confirm the severity of any issues that are present, and prevent further headaches and expense down the road.