A home's roof protects the structure from the elements, and it can last for decades, depending on its type and installation quality. Like most Oregon homeowners in the Portland area, you probably don't even think about your roof until something goes wrong. Once you see an issue with your roof, don't wait; call a pro. Waiting only allows more damage to happen. Here are 7 signs you might need a new roof.
1. You See Water Damage
Water damage is one of the most common reasons for roof replacement. Damaged areas appear as radiating circular stains or darkness and can pop up on the roof, in the attic, or on walls or ceilings inside your home. If your roof leaks, water seeps in and can cause significant damage, including toxic mold growth, wood rot, and roof sagging and collapse. If you see evidence of moisture, you should make an appointment for a roof inspection. Don't worry about climbing up there yourself; this task is best left to the pros. The roofing expert will be able to check out the damage and give you their recommendations for the next steps.
2. Shingles Are Damaged
Another sign of roof trouble is damaged shingles. Sometimes they are cracked, curled, loose, or missing and can expose the underlayment. Normal aging, wind, hail, wet winter weather, and even animals can harm your shingles. Another indication of shingle damage is granules in water runoff areas like gutters or flowerbeds. When shingles lose granules, they are exposed to the sun's UV rays, prematurely aging them. When shingles wear out, they no longer keep water out. You may notice that your roof leaks during heavy rains, which signifies that your shingles may be at the end of their lifecycle.
3. Moss, Algae, and Lichen Overgrowth
In the Pacific Northwest, it is common to experience moss, algae, and lichen growth on roofs. It is essential, however, that it be removed as soon as possible. If left alone, they will grow into any crack or crevice they can find, which can lift shingles and let water in. If you see a home or even a garden shed with a lot of moss or lichens growing on it or dark streaks indicating algae growth, there could be water damage to the roof.
For your safety, consider using a professional to remove the growth. They should remove it gently to not further damage the shingles. Moss cleaning companies typically offer soft spray washing or a brushing technique for removal services and apply leave-on treatment to help slow future growth.
Once the overgrowth is removed, the roof should be inspected to see if damage has occurred. Moss overgrowth is especially problematic because it retains water like a sponge and stays moist most of the time.
Another reason to keep moss off of your roof is that it could void your homeowners' warranty. Insurance companies want you to maintain your home and prevent damage when possible. Keeping the roof clear of moss, algae, and lichens is one of the maintenance tasks.
4. Damage Around Skylights, Dormer Windows, Vents, or Chimneys
Another sign you may need to replace your roof is damage around corners, edges, and seams. A roof can have vents for attic and plumbing airflow, skylights, dormer windows (roof windows to make more usable space in an attic or a faux dormer for curb appeal), or a chimney. These are all areas where installation quality matters a lot because they are locations for water to get inside. Look for flashing (metal strips that cover seams), brackets, fasteners, or sealants that are poorly installed, rusted, cracked, chipped, or missing. There may be enough room for leaks, especially during heavy rains. Water stains and peeling paint are red flags that water is getting in. Please don't wait to fix leaks around these fixtures; it will lead to further damage.
5. Light in your Attic
An additional sign you might need a new roof is if you see light coming through the roof while in the attic. This doesn't mean the glow of light coming from the eaves by the floor. Any other light streaming in is a red flag because if the light gets in, the rain probably does, too. This area of your roof should be covered and repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
6. The Roof is Sagging
When the roofline begins to sag, it's a sign that the internal structure is failing. Moisture has likely weakened the rafters in the attic. A sagging roof should be addressed as soon as possible. Here are a few reasons why:
Sagging may indicate the roof may be in danger of collapse, especially if weight is applied, like snow and ice.
Water is likely trapped, and boards are rotted and unstable
Water can continue to get inside
Reduced energy efficiency from gaps in shingles and sublayer
Affects curb appeal for resale
7. Your Roof is Old and Has Done Its Job
Residential roofs can last 15-100+ years, but other factors can shorten the lifespan of a roof:
Roof type (asphalt, architectural, ceramic, wood shake, tile, metal, concrete)
Low-quality materials
Poor Installation
Improper roof maintenance
Storms and severe weathering, and other extreme environmental conditions (Hot & Cold)
There are benefits to installing a new roof on a home. It increases the curb appeal, which is nice for you, but also excellent for resale value when the time comes. A new roof can improve energy efficiency, saving you money on utility bills. Lastly, It improves the air quality in your home, especially if your previous roof had leaks, moisture build-up, and mold, which can be hazardous to health.
If you've noticed any of these signs with your roof, don't wait; call Best Coast Roofing. We'd be happy to inspect your roof, show you what we find, and provide a free quote for our roofing services if needed. Call us today at 971-804-2207 or email us at: cody@bestcoastroofing.com.