Welcome to Family Roofing

The roof is the most important part of the home.  It keeps the elements out and protects your structure.  Worn or damaged asphalt roof shingles can allow water to leak into the building.  Leaks can be major, causing damage to insulation, drywall, and your belongings, or they can be small, rotting your roof sheathing and rafters, setting your home up for a costly repair.  There are several warning signs that your asphalt shingles need to be repaired or replaced.

Ignoring warning signs can often lead to the need for more repairs as well as complete replacements.  Always act quickly if you suspect your roof has an issue to avoid bigger, more expensive problems later.

SHINGLE EDGES ARE CURLED OR SHINGLE TABS ARE CUPPED

One of the biggest signs asphalt shingles are past their prime is curling or discoloration. If you take a look up the slope of your roof and notice that many of the shingles seem to be lumpy, lifted up slightly, or peeling back from the surface, there’s a good chance the shingles need to be replaced.

GRANULE LOSS

Another symptom of old roofing is shingles that have lost most of their granules. They will look splotchy and discolored compared to new shingles.  Another way to check if your shingles are losing granules is to take a look in your gutters. Shingles tend to lose most of their granules at the end of their lifespan. If you notice a large amount of these granules in your gutters or in the water running out of them then you could be due for a new roof.

CRACKED SHINGLES

Cracks in the roof shingles allow an easy entry point for water to penetrate beneath the surface and into the home.  Cracks can be caused by high winds, temperature swings, manufacturing defects, and improper installation.

YOUR ROOF IS AT LEAST 15 YEARS OLD OR LOOKS OLD AND WORN

While many shingles today are produced for durability, many factors can accelerate the aging of shingles.  For example, if your roof is not properly ventilated, it can negatively impact your shingles.

Naturally occurring airborne algae cause dark streaks on your shingle roof.   While this may not necessarily harm the roof shingles, it won’t look good.    If you notice sections of your roofing that are dramatically darker than others, this is likely because of damaging environmental conditions.  Common issues are mold, mildew, and algae growth.  Each of these issues not only discolor the roofing and make it look unattractive, but they can shorten the lifespan as well.  If you notice dark patches in many areas around your roof, you might be looking at a full shingle replacement.

MOSS

Moss can grow on roof surfaces that don’t get much sunlight, especially in cool, moist climates.  While moss growth can be a cosmetic issue, it can hold moisture against the roof surface and over time in freezing climates can cause damage to the granules on the top of the shingles.  Moss can be brushed off but it won’t prevent it from growing again and brushing it from the surface can damage the top of the shingle.  Plus, great care should be taken when using a ladder or walking on your roof. You may need to call a professional.

Each of the issues above are signs you may need a new shingle roof.  Many times, the solution is as simple as installing new roof shingles, but if you wait too long, you could face replacing some of the plywood underneath.  By regularly maintaining your roof, you not only extend its life, but you also set yourself up to see the early signs of a failing roof and get it replaced before you face any water damage or other problems.