It seems like most things today are designed to last for only a short time before being replaced or upgraded. And while this may not be a big deal for tech gadgets or other items, no homeowner would want to invest in a roof they would have to switch out in only a few years. A roof can last as long as a half a century if all factors align themselves perfectly. However, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the signs a new roof is needed for your home so let’s take a look at signs for when it’s time to replace your roof.

Leaking

A roof that is leaking can cause a number of problems for you and your home. The first thing in your home to be threatened by a leaking roof is the attic and any items you store in this space. If your home does not contain an attic, you could still see damage to the interior portion of the ceiling. The paint in affected areas could darken and bubble. The damage to the paint and plaster can also extend to nearby walls.

One of the most serious issues caused by a leaking roof over the long-term are problems with mold and mildew. Mold is dangerous to you and your family because it can spread throughout your home, get into your HVAC system, and grow both in and around vents. This mold can also contaminate your carpet, furniture, and clothes. Mold can present health problems and is difficult to get rid of once it begins to spread. The mold threat caused by a leaking roof is reason enough alone to replace the structure.

Other problems that can result from a leaking roof are:

• Fire Hazard – This threat comes mostly from shorted wires in the attic.
• Slips and Falls – Water that pools on the floor when a roof is leaking can pose a slip and fall threat to the members of your family.
• Bills Increase – A leaking roof can cause deterioration to the insulation in your home. This can cause energy to be wasted and will cause an increase in your monthly energy bills.
• Damage to Structural Integrity – Ceiling joists, wall framing, and joists can all be damaged by an accumulation of water from a leaking roof.

Your Old Roofing is Getting Expensive

All things accumulate wear and tear with continued use. This principle is no different when it comes to your roof. There are times when the need for a new roof will be evident before there is a significant failure to the structure. This is a good thing and you should make sure you can identify this need when it occurs. Most roofs are constructed with tiles and shingles. The quality of these materials will go a long way in deciding the life expectancy of your roof. But a roof that is 20 years old or older should be closely monitored for signs it should be replaced. Your shingles will often provide the first signs that your roof needs to be replaced. The edges of older shingles will begin to curl, and the tabs can become cupped. Some shingles can be cracked or rotted and there might be bald spots where there are missing granules.

There is an increasing cost of having old roofing. Your energy bill is one place you will take a big hit. In the summer, an aging roof can trap heat and cause your HVAC system to work harder to cool your home. In the winter, an older roof might be responsible for allowing the heat in your home to escape. The extra work your HVAC will have to perform due to worn or older roof will decrease its lifespan. The cost to replace an HVAC system could be substantial.

You Want to Increase Home Value

A new roof will lower energy costs and increase the curb appeal of your home. These things will work to affect a substantial increase in the value of your home. A 2013 survey indicated that a new roof increases a home’s value by an average of $12,000 across the country. Additionally, the return on investment in a new roof was 62.9%. These statistics put a new roof ahead of things like installing a backup generator and adding a bathroom to the home for increasing its value. Some features of your new roof that may contribute to your increased home value include:

• Appearance Upgrade – The texture and color options for asphalt shingles are much more varied than 20 years ago. This makes it possible for homeowners and designers to use their creativity to upgrade the appearance of their roof and home.
• Extended Warranties – In the past warranties for asphalt shingles were 15-20 years long. The top quality shingles used today can provide you with a warranty for your roof that lasts as long as 50 years.
• Technology – Some homeowners will be surprised to learn that some shingles today are rated by Energy Star. These shingles are designed to reduce the cost to cool a home by repelling the heat.
• Building Inspections – The roof is one of the first things noticed whenever a home goes on the market. This fact is as true for building inspectors and appraisers as it is for people who may be interested in buying a home. An old or failing roof has the power to stop the sale of a home.

A new roof is a huge investment and many homeowners try to delay making this investment as long as possible. This can become a dangerous game to play with your home as an aged roof can begin to fail long before the age becomes obvious to the eye. It is important to understand the factors that contribute to the life expectancy of a roof and recognize the signs that it is time for a replacement. Roof investment is a key pillar of your home, don’t neglect it and be preventive about it. Keep your roof over your head and not on the ground.

More home improvement projects on your mind? We offer extensive interior design services!