Most of us tend not to really think about the roof on our homes until it’s too late. We then find ourselves faced with calling in someone quickly to carry out repairs so no further damage is caused to the inside of our homes. So it is a good idea to work out when you should consider professional replacement of your roof. Here are a few things that will help you to recognise when the time is right for you to call in the professionals.
1 – Check Inside
You need to go up into the loft and check the interior parts of the roof. Take with you a torch so that you can inspect it thoroughly. The signs you need to be looking out for are if any light is coming through, or there are water stains or streaks in any areas of the loft.
2 – Look At Your Home Improvement Records
When was the last time that the roof on your home was reshingled or replaced? It is a good idea to find out when the roof was actually installed as well as what it is made of. This will help you to determine just how much longer it can last before it needs to be refurbished, replaced, or reshingled. Most roofs these days have a life span of between 20 and 25 years.
3 – Check The Shingles
It is a good idea to keep a close eye on the roof of your home, especially after any severe weather. The shingles should be laying flat against the roof. If you notice they are cracked, buckling, or damaged you’ll need to get them repaired. At the same time, you should also check the rain gutters as well as the downpipes. Look to see if there are any shingles accumulating in them.
4 – Check The Flashing
Check to make sure that there are any cracks, or breaks in the flashing that is placed around vents, chimneys, and skylights. If you don’t repair or replace it, then you could soon find leaks appearing. When replacing the flashing upgrade to a metal one instead of tar or cement. This will last much longer.
5 – Look Out For Plants
Is there moss on your roof? If there is then this clearly shows that moisture is able to accumulate in a specific area of the roof. Getting rid of it is very easy all you need is a stiff brush. As you remove it make sure to check for any underlying issues that will need to be rectified.
6 – Is The Roof Sagging?
Have you noticed that certain parts of the roof of your home have begun to sag? If you have then you need to get work carried out before it leads to further damage to your home. You must look closely at the lowest points of the roof for such issues.