10 Signs You Need to Replace your Shingle Roofing System
It's one of the most popular styles of roofing, and for good reason. When installed properly, a quality shingle roofing system can last decades. At Sunroof Roofing Inc., we suggest homeowners keep their roof for 15 to 20 years on average, give or take a few years depending on the materials used and quality of the shingle roofing installation.
But how do you know when it's time to replace your shingle roof? Below are 10 signs that it's time to redo your roofing system, based on our 30 years of experience in the roofing industry installing shingle roofing on residential homes around the Central Valley and Bay Area.
1. The roof has no obvious damage but shingles are coming loose
You may not see any obvious damage to your roof, but if shingles are coming loose, it may be time to replace the roofing system. A loose shingle isn’t always an indication that the entire system needs replacing; however, if there is an abundance of loose shingles on one section of the roof, then there might be an underlying problem with that area of the roof or with its installation process.
2. You see worn or cracked shingles
While shingle roofing systems are built to last for decades, shingles inevitably wear out over time and can crack from excessive heat and cold, as well as from wind-blown debris. If a portion of your roof has lots of worn or cracked shingles, it could be time for a new roof system.
3. You see signs of climbing algae
Climbing algae is a type of lichen that grows in wet environments. It's typically brown or green in color and has a mossy texture. It can grow up walls and around gutters, but it can also grow on roofs as well.
When climbing algae starts to grow on your roof, there are some tell-tale signs that you'll notice. You might see them creeping up the side of your house or around gutters or downspouts. You may even find them growing inside your gutters if they're too close to the edge of the roof. If they're allowed to continue their growth unchecked, they can make their way down into the gutters themselves and clog them up with debris from above.
4. Your roof is older than 20 years
While this number isn't set in stone by any means, it is definitely a good rule of thumb to go by and something we consider here at Sunroof Inc. when performing roofing inspections in the Central Valley and Bay Area.
If you're on the fence, here's a couple of things to consider:
What kind of shingles were used on your roof? The quality of shingles has improved significantly since most roofs were installed in the late 1980s or early 1990s. You may find that new shingles will last longer than expected, even if they are installed over existing ones.
How was your current roof installed? A good installation will save you money in the long run because it will last longer and require less maintenance than one that was done poorly. In addition, a quality installation will help prevent problems such as leaks or ice damming during winter months.
5. The roof leaks each time it rains
A leaky roof can lead to water damage on the interior walls and ceilings of your home. A leaky roof also lets warm air out during the summer months, causing higher energy bills and making your home less comfortable to live in during the winter months (when it’s cold outside). You may be able to fix some leaks yourself by replacing damaged shingles with new ones — but if these repairs don’t stop water from leaking into your home, you should consider consulting with a professional. It may be necessary to install a new roofing system.
While there may not be any immediate danger from these dark spots, it is important to fix them as soon as possible so that they do not cause further damage to your home and belongings inside it. Replacing your entire roof will ensure that there are no more dark spots left behind after cleaning off any algae or mold from the surface area of your home's exterior walls and areas that could lead to a much higher repair bill in the future.
6. You see water stains on the ceiling in your home
Water stains on the ceiling of your home can be one such sign. While it is not always easy to identify water stains on the ceiling, if you see them, it is best to get them looked at by a professional roofer in order to determine whether they are due to a leaky roof or if they can be repaired.
The most common cause of water stains on ceiling tiles is faulty flashing around chimneys or vent pipes. If this is the case, then you will need an experienced roofer to fix it properly so as not to cause further damage to your home's interior.
In the end, when you see water stains on your ceiling, it is best to contact a professional. If you're in the Bay Area or Central Valley California, give Sunroof Roofing Inc. a call. We make the process of installing a new roof simple for you, with no hassle and no cleanup required. We take care of all of it!
7. There are a lot of dark spots on your roof
Dark spots on a roof can be caused by many different things. Sometimes they are caused by algae or mold growing in the shingles or underneath them. This can happen when the shingles get wet and stay wet for too long. In other cases, the dark spot is caused by small pieces of gravel or dirt caught in between the shingles or under them. These substances can cause discoloration and even damage to your shingles over time if they do not get cleaned off regularly.
8. Shingles are missing, torn or curled
Missing or broken shingles: If there are any shingles missing or broken, you should contact a roofing contractor immediately. Missing shingles can cause leaks that damage the underside of the roof and render the whole thing useless. Broken shingles can also lead to leaks and other problems.
Curling and tearing: The next thing to look for is curling and tearing. Curled shingles are more prone to leaking than flat ones; this is because water can pool behind them when rain falls on them. Torn shingles are also more likely to leak than intact ones; if one corner of a shingle gets damaged, water can get trapped underneath it which will eventually cause damage.
9. The shingle granules wash off the roof with rainwater, and end up in the gutters
So what happens when you see shingle granules in your gutters and downspouts? Do you need to replace your roof? Or will it continue to hold up?
These are a few questions we've heard from past customers. Let's work on clearing these questions up:
Simply put, if it's just a few granules and you're not seeing damage to other areas of your home, then there's no need for immediate action. But if you see more than just a few granules washing off, then you may want to get an inspection from a roofing contractor. If your gutters are getting clogged and your roof is leaking, then give us a call today!
Shingle granule loss can happen for many reasons, but often it comes from wind, hail or heavy rains. While some granules may wash off during these storms, most will remain intact until they come in contact with something abrasive like dirt or debris. When this happens, they can be ground down into smaller pieces until they reach the size of sand or even dust. If enough of these small pieces get caught in the gutter system or downspout, they can clog up the flow of water and cause problems further down the line — such as water pooling or leaking inside your home.
10. There is mold growth along the edges of your house
If you see black or white mold growing on your roof, it's a sign that there is water intrusion and damage to your shingles. This can lead to rot in your attic and other structural issues. Not to mention, mold can be very dangerous to your health and should not be ignored.
Final Thoughts
While it's always best to have a qualified professional inspect your roofing system for damaged shingles, leaks, and any exterior damage, looking out for these 10 things will help you become a more responsible homeowner and have a roof that will protect you and your loved ones from the elements, reduce your energy bill, and maintain the value of your home.
If you're in California and located in the Central Valley or Bay Area, give Sunroof Roofing Inc. a call for a quote on your next inspection, repair, or replacement! We will make your next shingle roofing installation SIMPLE for you.
About us
Sunroof Roofing Inc. is a family-owned roofing company operating out of Half Moon Bay, California. We have a team of experienced shingle roofing inspection, installation, and repair specialists ready to help you with your next roof repair/replacement project. If you have damaged shingles, a leaky roof, or signs of damage, we'll provide you with the peace of mind knowing that the job will be done correctly, will last for decades, and will remain as simple as possible for you and your family. No hassle, no cleanup. Just quality work by experienced professionals. Contact us today for a free quote on your next shingle roofing project.
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Posted on: 11/1/2022
By Sunroof Roofing Inc.
