Sometimes people overlook the roof of their home when considering home improvements and maintenance, but it is arguably one of the most important aspects for ensuring the safety and protection of your home. When doing a roof inspection on your home, it can be hard to know the signs you need a new roof and when to call in the professionals.
The good news is that some common signs indicate you need a new roof. Once you are familiar with what to look for, you’ll be able to spot potential damage and act quickly to resolve it, saving you time and money down the line.
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11 Signs You Need A New Roof
Not every bad roof is obvious from the ground, but there are some signs you can look out for. Many of these roofing signs will vary by type of shingle material, time of the year, and the climate you live in. No matter the age of your roof, regular maintenance and repairs can go a long way in extending the lifespan of asphalt shingle roofs.
Even if you have a new house roof, make regular maintenance a part of your seasonal home checklist and be on the lookout for the below signs of a damaged or broken roof. Early detection of roof damage can save you money, time, and headaches later on.
Learn about home improvement financing options available so you’re ready for renovations and updates after inspection.
Curling, Buckling, or Cupped Shingles
Curling, buckling, or cupped shingles are all signs that you need new shingles or a new roof entirely.
Over time or with extreme weather, the shingles can loosen up and become less attached to the roof bed beneath. You might first notice the edges of your shingles peeling upward, creating that cupped look and leaving the shingles more susceptible to strong winds blowing them off entirely. Curled and buckled shingles can also be a sign of water damage, so it’s important to have it looked at right away to stop further damage.
Missing Shingles
Missing shingles are one of the major warning signs you need a new roof, and if you can see the damage from the ground it’s highly likely that there’s more that you just can’t see. Open areas in your roof can allow water to enter your home and wreak havoc. Even one or two missing shingles can pose a great risk by allowing wind to get underneath the neighboring shingles, pulling them off too, and exposing your roof even further.
Shingle Granules
Shingle granules aren’t just there for looks; those granules protect the asphalt layer underneath from the elements. Over the years, loss of shingle granules is normal but can lead to accelerated deterioration and water damage. Inspect your roof for signs of granule loss, including granules collecting in your gutters or on the ground near downspouts. If you see signs of missing granules, reach out to your local roofing professional to assess the damage.
Sagging Roof
A roof that sags, even if in just one spot, is one of the more obvious signs of a bad roof. The shingles may be intact, but sagging indicates that there is a structural issue underneath. Whether poor installation, water damage, or thin boards were the culprit, sagging spots in your roof require immediate attention to prevent further damage and keep your home safe and structurally sound.
Moss, Mold, or Fungi
The common denominator with moss, mold, and fungi is moisture. They all love growing in it and absorbing it, which is not great for your roof. Aside from moisture retention, moss, mold, and fungi can degrade your roofing materials and put your home at further risk. To tackle organic growth like moss on your roof, use a stiff brush to sweep them off, being careful to not damage the shingles or scrape off granules.
Roof is 20-30 Years Old
While some roof materials fare better than others, the typical life of a shingle roof is about 20 years. At the twenty-year mark, it’s likely the sun, wind, and rain will have caused enough wear and tear to affect the roof’s performance.
If you haven’t lived in your home for that long and aren’t sure of the age of your roof, there are a few ways to find out. Contact your real estate agent to check if it’s listed in the seller disclosure, and if not, you can try reaching out directly to the previous owners. If you live in Minnesota, you need a permit for roof repairs and replacements, so check public records to see when the last permit was pulled.
Understand everything from your roof to your plumbing and what to expect from a home inspection.
Neighbors are Getting New Roofs
If you live in a neighborhood where all the houses were built at around the same time, pay attention to the types of external home maintenance your neighbors are doing. This is especially true for developments with one builder using the same construction materials like siding and roofing that will then age at similar rates. Your neighbors’ roofing needs may be more similar to yours than you think, so consider a roof inspection if your neighbors are getting new roofs, especially if a storm passed through recently.
Water Damage in Attic
Water damage is any homeowner’s nightmare, but it’s even scarier when it happens in the attic where you aren’t as likely to spot it right away. Make it a point to regularly check your attic for signs of moisture and take some precautions to prevent roof leaks from ever happening. If you do notice moisture marks or damp rafters, address it immediately by bringing in a professional to stop the leak and prevent further damage like mold growth and structural weakening.
Increased Cooling Bills
Aside from its primary purpose, roofs can be incredibly helpful when it comes to temperature regulation. A properly sealed and well-insulated roof keeps the interior of your home cool during the hot summer months. Any compromised areas of the roof will diminish its energy efficiency, so if you notice an increase in your cooling bills, it may be a sign that your roof is aging and needs replacement.
Weather-Related Damage
Over time, the elements wear away at the surface of your roof, and severe weather exacerbates that. Severe winds can blow off the protective granules or even entire shingles. Heavy rain and especially hail will also break away those granules and make dents in the shingles.
If a severe storm recently went through your area, check for common signs of roof storm damage and reach out to a professional roofing company. Even if you don’t immediately spot damage, you may be eligible for a new shingle roof.
Roof Inspection Confirms It’s Time
Whether you’re in the process of buying a home and recently had your home inspection or you just had your regular roof inspection, roof inspections by professionals will provide you with a thorough review of the condition of your roof. You may not need a full home roof replacement; you can solve some issues with minor repairs. Your roofing professional can also give you tips for extending the life of your roof.
The Importance of Timely Roof Replacement
When damage is present on your roof, timely repair or replacement is key to preventing further damage. The roof is one of your home’s greatest safeguards, so even minor flaws in the roof can put your home at risk. Delaying a roof replacement can be extremely costly in the long run by exacerbating common issues resulting from bad roofs like water damage, mold growth, and structural instability.
That’s why we recommend getting a regular inspection of the roof at least once every three years. A professional can note any areas of concern and provide the best plan to remedy them. Regularly inspecting the roof and keeping up with maintenance will give you peace of mind, as you will know that you are protecting your home.
Hire the Professionals and Schedule a FREE Roof Inspection with Minnesota Exteriors
Now that you’ve done your research on the signs of roof damage to look for, turn it over to the professionals for a thorough roof inspection and expert guidance on replacement options. Having a professional in your corner who can guide you through the process will help to ensure you make the best decision for your home, keeping it in top shape for generations to come.
At Minnesota Exteriors, we bring decades of experience and passion for home exteriors and no project is too small. We take pride in our work and treat your home as if it were our own. We specialize in storm damage services, so whether you need a roof replacement, new siding, or a gutter system replacement, we’ve got your back. Get in touch today for a free estimate on your next exterior project!
Signs You Need A New Roof FAQ
Will Homeowner’s Insurance Cover A New Roof?
A new roof is costly so it’s no surprise that one of the most frequently asked questions we get is, “Does insurance cover a new roof?” The answer depends on the cause of the damage and the specifics of your policy. Your homeowner’s insurance will not cover a new roof if a previous bad roofing job or simply old age caused the damage. However, if a severe weather event results in damage to your roof, your insurance will likely cover either the roof repairs or total roof replacement.
Does A New Roof Increase Home Value?
A roof replacement will give a nice bump to your home’s overall value, extend the home’s lifespan, and boost your home’s curb appeal all at once. As another added bonus, a new roof can decrease your homeowner’s insurance premiums. While replacing a roof doesn’t have quite the return on investment that a kitchen or bath remodel would, it’s a necessary investment to keep your home protected and structurally sound.
Is A New Roof Tax Deductible?
You cannot claim a tax deduction for replacing your roof on your primary residence because it is considered a home improvement project. That doesn’t mean you won’t benefit, though. In addition to increasing the home’s value, depending on where you live, the money you spend on a new roof now can also benefit you when you eventually go to sell by decreasing the capital gains on the property. Consult with your tax accountant to maximize your tax benefits based on your unique situation.
How Long Does A New Roof Last?
On average, you can expect your new asphalt roof to last 20-25 years. Asphalt shingle life expectancy is different from metal roof or clay roof life expectancy, both of which can last closer to 50 years. The climate of your location and whether you layered the shingles over an existing layer can affect the overall lifespan of the roof, in addition to the material used.
How Much Does a New Roof Cost?
The size of your home, the type of roofing material you choose, the complexity of your roof, and the area you live in influence the cost of a new roof. Depending on those factors the cost can range anywhere between $29,100 – $53,000. Getting an accurate price estimate online can be difficult, so your best bet will always be to get a quote from a professional roofing company. Not a trivial amount, but home improvement financing options can make it more approachable.