Few homeowners relish the thought of replacing their roof. A new roof can be expensive, and may not be in the budget for many homeowners. Your roof serves a very important purpose in protecting the rest of your home from water intrusion and is a component of your home that must be kept in proper shape. The following information is provided by the team at Exterior Building Solutions to assist homeowners in knowing when to replace their roof. By knowing the signs to look for, it is possible to plan for a roof replacement, which can make the process more affordable and less stressful. 

Age Really Does Matter

The number one indicator that your roof will soon need to be replaced is its age. If your roof is at or nearing 20 years of age, it is going to need to be replaced in the near future. Roofing technology has improved quite a bit over the years, and roofs installed two decades ago do not have the same resilience that comes with new roofs. As you near the 20-year mark, inspect your roof on a regular basis and begin planning for replacement.

Check the Condition of Your Shingles

A great way to see how your roof is performing is to check the condition of roof shingles. Look for signs of shingle lifting, or areas where there are missing or broken shingles. It is also important to check the condition of the granules on roof shingles; areas of few or no granules are signs of excessive wear. In addition to visually inspecting the shingles themselves, also take a close look at the base of gutters and downspouts for loose granules.

Be Vigilant About Growth on Your Roof

Roof shingles, even newer versions, are susceptible to algae and moss growth. Algae is most often noted by the presence of dark streaks on the surface of the roof, while moss appears as a green tint, and is usually clustered in one area of the roof where moisture and exposure to light is optimal. Both algae and moss can be dealt with relatively easily, but homeowners should take action as soon as possible, before organic growth causes serious problems.

Perform Routine Interior Inspections

It is also a good idea to check the underside of your roof on a regular basis. Head into the attic with a strong flashlight, and look for signs of water intrusion. The presence of water is often indicated by dark areas on the wood. Pay close attention to areas where a chimney, vent or other structure extends through the roof, as these are often the areas where water finds a way in.

At Exterior Building Solutions, we offer a full range of services to homeowners in the greater St. Louis area. In terms of roof repair or replacement, we have the skills and experience to inspect your roof and provide a detailed report on its current condition as well as the projected timeline for replacement. Having this information makes it easier to plan for home improvement projects, and can help you avoid a costly surprise.