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How to Know When You Need a New Roof

Is it time for a new Roof Install

Do I Need A New Roof?

A new roof is a daunting expense for any family. The average price of a new roof rose to over $14,000 in 2021, according to the home services directory Angi. However, a greater Cincinnati area roof replacement service may cost you less. Regardless, You don’t want to shell out that kind of money unless you have to. So how do you know when you have to? First off, have a trusted roofing contractor inspect your roof. For your greater Cincinnati home, schedule a free roof inspection with American Home Tech for a comprehensive report on the condition of your roof. Otherwise, there are a variety of other signs indicating it may be time to replace your roof:

LEAKS!

Check your attic first. Look for light coming through the top of the house or stains and streaks. If the roof or underside of roof decking is drooping or sagging, it needs to be replaced before your home is damaged further. Examine the surface for trapped moisture, rotting boards, especially at the lowest points in the roof. Other indications of roof leaks are as follows:

  • Water Stains in ceilings or walls
  •  Dripping sounds
  • Mold growing in ceilings/ walls
  • High humidity levels indoors
  • Musty Smell indoors

*** Many people ignore small pinhole leaks that don’t do much damage, but they will continue to grow and eventually cost you more money in the long run. ***

Pinhole Roof Leak

Other things to check for!

– There are bald spots where granules are missing. Check the gutters and downspouts for shingle granules and pieces- the more granules, the sooner you need to consider a replacement. This is one reason cleaning your gutters is important.

Shingle missing granules

– The shingle edges are curled or the tabs are cupped. As shingles age, they start to deteriorate. For wood and asphalt shingles the most common sign that they have reached the end of their life is curling of the edges. If you see this happening to more than a couple of stray shingles you are in need of a roof replacement very soon. When a few shingles are missing, it’s likely that the rest of them are also aging and not in the best shape.

Curled shingles on Roof

– The shingles are cracked. Keep an eye on your rooftop, especially after heavy storms. Shingles should lie flat against the roof; if you find patches that are cracked, damaged, or buckling, then repairs are needed. 
 
– Loose, missing, cracked, or broken flashing around vents, skylights, and chimneys. This seals the seams of the roof from rain and weather. In older homes, flashing is often made of roof cement or tar, but it’s a good idea to upgrade to a metal flashing system for added durability.
 
– Dark streaks caused by airborne algae, which may not necessarily be harmful to the shingles but look terrible. There can also be streaks or stains along the home’s exterior walls.
 
Roofing Algae Streaks
 
– Moss can grow on roof surfaces that don’t get a lot of sunlight, especially in cool, damp climates. It (and also mold and fungi) indicate there may be trapped moisture, which can ruin a roof. To get rid of moss that collects in shaded corners of your roof, use a stiff brush but be careful to address any underlying problems.
 
– For tiled roofs, missing tiles might mean the sealants, flashing, and nails need to be replaced, as they’re letting in leaks. These deteriorating parts can also let tiles slip out of position or even fall away completely.
 
– Metal roofs can last a very long time, but their biggest danger is rust. So if you spot some rust showing through, it’s time to treat it (don’t just paint it) and recoat it. If left too long the rust will create pinholes very quickly.
 
– Your roof is at least 20 years old or all of your neighbors are replacing their roofs- Homes built around the same time period experience the same weather conditions. If you don’t know how old your roof is you may be able to check the property appraiser’s website to see when the last permit was pulled for your roof and gauge it that way.
 
– The roof looks old and worn. Your roof should have a fluid color across its surface. However, as it gets older, you’ll see signs like blotchiness or inconsistency in the uniformity of its color. Are there areas where the wear and tear are more obvious, like in the valleys where leaves or snow sit longer? The presence of drastic color changes paired with a roof nearing the end of its expected life span means it may be time to bite the bullet.
 
Experts agree that you should have your roof inspected by a qualified roofing contractor at least every three to five years. When you’re taking the time to decide between a roof replacement or just a repair, consider the long-term investment. Putting in a little extra now can turn into years of savings and also greatly improve the value of your home. Whether it’s removing moss and checking flashing or weighing the best options for replacement, keep on top of your roof so it continues to protect your most important investment. 
 
American Home Tech offers full-service roofing in the Cincinnati, Dayton, and Northern KY areas. Read more about our roofing services and then contact us to schedule your free roof inspection!

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