Please tell me I don’t need a new roof!
You’re looking at your home improvement budget, and it definitely did not include a new roof.
Maybe you’re being paranoid and you don’t need to replace your roof. Could it do with just a few new shingles?
If you’re not sure if you need roof repair services, an entirely new roof, or maybe just one shingle, continue reading this article to learn more.
Table of Contents
Do I Need a New Roof?
As you’re looking at roof prices, you’re trying to figure out how you can swing it if you do need to get a new roof. Before you start setting up garage sales and doing fundraising events, let’s look at the signs that you need a new roof.
1. Your Roof is Getting Up There in Age
If your roof hasn’t be replaced in quite some time, it may be time to check it even if you’re not having problems. If you can fix a problem before it starts, you’re going to have much better results than if you wait for water damage or some other problem to take place.
The average roof lasts about 20 years, so if you’ve had it for longer than that, you’re definitely due for a checkup.
2. Curling or Buckling Shingles
If your shingles look like they’re curling or buckling, this might be a sign things are going awry. Look at your roof from the side during bright daylight, and you’ll be able to see the shingle defects easier.
If there are a lot of shingles that are having problems, that might mean it’s time to replace the roof. If you only see a few shingles that have problems, you can remain hopefully optimistic that you only need a few shingles.
3. Missing Shingles
Missing shingles are not a great sign. If you had a major storm, that might explain why your shingles are flying off, but even then, it could be signs you need to replace your roof.
Look to see how many missing shingles there are and if the shingle tabs are intact. It’s always better to check these areas and fix them as soon as possible in case you don’t need to replace the entire roof.
4. Roof Valleys
Checking roof valleys for any sign of damage is a must. These areas experience a lot of wear and tear since that’s where the rain and snow run down into the gutters.
If your roof valleys are worn and experiencing problems, you’re likely to experience roof leaks and other problems.
5. Part of Your Shingles in the Gutter
If you’re brave enough to get up on a ladder and clean your gutters, you might find shingle pieces in your gutter. While the pieces might not be big enough to notice from the ground, if you find them in your gutter, it’s an early sign of roof problems.
Even if there are only a few little pieces broken off of your shingles, you should get it checked out before things get worse.
6. Chimney Flashing
If your chimney is sealed with anything other than a metal flashing, this area is susceptible to leaks and other damage. Check to see if there is tar or some other substance there to seal it, and if there is, have it repaired right away so it doesn’t cause problems with the rest of the roof.
7. Seeing Daylight Through Roof Boards
If you’re in the attic and can see daylight through the roof boards, it’s not good. You might only think to check for daylight through the roof boards after walking on the roof and feeling a little bounce as you’re walking.
A bounce on your roof is not normal and is a sure sign you need to get your roof checked for replacement.
How to Find the Best Roofing Company
If you’ve decided you need to get your roof checked, it’s time to find a good roofing company. Your home’s roof is an important part of your day-to-day life, so you need to make sure that you have reliable professionals working on it.
Check References
While online reviews can be helpful, it can set your mind at ease to speak with someone that has worked with the roofing company in the past. Ask them about whether they were on time, well-mannered and respectful of their space, and how they felt the project went overall.
If a company is reputable, they will be able to come up with a few people that will be glad to take a quick call.
Ask for Photos of Past Work
Before hiring them, ask for photos of past work so you can see if their work is up to your standards. If you see anything in the photos that concerns you or you aren’t sure about, don’t be afraid to ask them about it.
Check and Compare Rates
Once you have some good options on the table, you need to check and compare their rates. While you want to use a high-quality company to fix your roof, you don’t want to overpay for your project.
Get More Home, DIY, and Lifestyle Information You Need
Now that you know whether you need a new roof or not, why not keep learning about things you can do to make your house a home? We have many great home improvement articles, lifestyle articles and more.
Navigate through our site, find your favorite sections, drop a bookmark, and come back later for more great reads.
