6 Warning Signs You Need a Roof Replacement This Fall

The thought of having to replace your roof isn’t exactly the kind of thing you want to focus on. However, it’s exponentially more painful to experience an incident in which you realize you should have already replaced it. If you’re noticing signs of deterioration – and it’s been years since you last had your roof replaced – now may be a good time to consider your options. Specifically, you should keep an eye out for some of the warning signs.

6 Warning Signs You Can’t Ignore

Every roof is different, and a lot hinges on the quality of the materials used, exposure to geo-specific elements, and how well you’ve maintained your roof over the years. However, the following warning signs are pretty standard signs that your roof is in need of replacement sooner rather than later.

• It’s been a while. Honestly, time is your biggest indicator that your roof may need replacing. While you don’t want to replace simply because it’s time, you can use this as a guiding factor in your decision if you begin to notice other issues that indicate deterioration and aging. The typical asphalt shingle roof lasts between 20-25 years. Anything past this and you’re pushing your luck. If the roof was simply installed over a previous layer and is older than 20 years, you’re seriously pushing your luck.
• Curled and buckled shingles. Do you notice anything strange about the shingles on your roof? Curling and buckling are signs that your roof is in the final stages of deterioration and is likely past its life expectancy. Curled shingles are dangerous because they’re susceptible to ice damage, as well as being lifted up by strong gusts of wind. Buckled shingles can also be torn off by extreme weather conditions and may indicate another underlying problem with the structure of the roof.
• Shingle granules in the gutter. Checking your gutters is one way to confirm that your roof is struggling. For example, if you find shingle granules in the gutters, you know it’s time for a replacement. Roofs tend to shed large amounts of granules towards the end of their life cycle. As they lose granules, the shingles become weaker and could eventually make your roof more vulnerable to rain, wind, and snow.
• Signs of water damage. Signs of leaking, water damage, mold, and mildew should be alarming. Moisture is extremely dangerous and can lead to far more serious issues – including the growth of fungi and bacteria (which is able to develop with 48 hours of water-related issues). If you see water damage, contact a roofing professional immediately. If not properly dealt with, the situation will get worse.
• Roof valleys. When looking at your roof, pay special attention to what are known as roof valleys. These are the portions of the roof where water and snow run off and into the gutter. If a valley becomes compromised, your home becomes more susceptible to roof leaks and water damage. Check for signs of discoloration, missing shingles, and other issues on a regular basis.
• Daylight in the attic. If you haven’t been in your attic in a while, now is a good time to pull down that ladder and see what’s going on up there. Look up at the ceiling and see if any daylight is coming through the roof boards. If so, this is likely an indication that your roof is past its useful life. Another good thing to do while you’re in the attic is check the insulation for moisture. This is a sign that your roof isn’t protecting as well as it should.

There are obviously a number of other warning signs and factors that play into whether or not a roof needs replacing, but these six give you a place to start. If you notice one or more of these issues, it’s a good idea to at least get a professional roofer’s opinion.

Fall: The Optimal Time of Year for Roof Replacement

If you believe your roof is in need of being replaced, you’re in luck. We’re about to enter the ideal time of year for roof work. Here are some of the reasons why fall is the ideal time to replace your roof:

• Better price. Roofing materials generally become cheaper as the weather cools. This means they are at their highest during the spring and summer, and lowest during the winter. Summer is also one of the busiest times of the year, so you’ll pay a premium during these months. Waiting until fall can save you a decent amount on the total project cost.
• Ideal weather conditions. Roofing contractors love the fall because of the cool weather. The shingles – which can sometimes reach temperatures in excess of 150 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer – are significantly cooler, too. There’s also no need to worry about ice or snow. All of these combined factors mean the average job is safer and faster.
• Preparation for winter. With winter right around the corner, it’s a good idea to go ahead and get your roof prepared. The last thing you want is a poorly insulated roof that sends your heating costs through the roof. Plus, it’s important that shingles are sealed properly before the cold comes along. This allows them to form a moisture-resistant, airtight barrier against cold temperatures.

Fall certainly isn’t the only time of year to replace your roof. Roofing companies work year-round and can service your needs whenever you’re ready. However, it’s better to take care of your home sooner rather than later. By the time winter rolls around, it’s possible that excessive snowfall could prevent you from replacing your roof for weeks and even months at a time.

Contact John McCarter Construction

At John McCarter Construction, we specialize in siding, roofing, and full-service exterior remodeling. In the Ann Arbor and Metro Detroit Area, we’re known as one of the most reliable and trustworthy contractors – but it’s our attention to detail and focus on quality that truly sets us apart from the competition. We have more than 200 reviews and a 100 percent workmanship, materials, and crew quality rating. For additional information regarding our services, please contact us today. We’d be happy to provide you with a no-obligation, no-pressure quote!