Your home is looking great, but you’re not sure about your roof. It’s starting to look a little old and worn out – some shingles are faded and missing, and you notice a small water stain on your ceiling. How can you tell for sure whether or not it’s time to get a new roof? Here are some tips from a roofer in Annandale, VA to help you decide.
Does My Roof Need to be Replaced? Your Local Roofer Shares More
There are a number of signs that your roof is aging or needs replacing. You might be able to check a few of these items yourself but when it comes to climbing on your roof you should always call your roofing contractor.
Your Roof is Old
Most roofs last around 20-25 years, give or take. If you’ve had your roof this long you definitely want to look into replacing it. Old roofs can leak, causing damage inside your home, including water stains, damage to the structure, and mold issues.
The Shingles are Curling, Buckling, or Missing
It’s important to look at the area of your roof that gets the most sun. Sunlight is damaging to roofing shingles. If any are buckled, curling, or missing, that’s a sign that it’s time to get a new roof. Any of these can allow water to leak in and cause costly damage.
Another important area are the valleys on your roof. This is where the various sloped areas of your roof meet. They’re supposed to channel water to your gutters, but if the shingles are damaged or missing, that water’s going to get inside your home. If your gutters have a lot of shingle granules in them, that’s also a good sign that your roof needs replacing.
Your Roof Has Sags or Droopy Areas
If your roof has any areas that are visibly sagging or drooping, this is a good indication that the decking, the wood sheathing under the shingles, has become weakened due to water leakage. A roofer might notice that your roof may feel springy or spongy and this is a sign to replace your roof immediately.
There’s Damage to Your Chimney Flashing
The flashing around your chimney is an integral part of your roof system. Usually made of aluminum or steel, it should last you about thirty years. If it rusts or is damaged, it can let water leak in around the chimney and down into your attic and walls. Have your roofing contractor check to see if it is damaged and needs to be replaced.
Finding a Roofer in Annandale, VA
If you’re looking for a roofer in Annandale, VA, Lyons Contracting is ready to serve all your roofing needs. For more information or to set up an appointment, click here.