When a roof has long exceeded its initial warranty and is showing signs of wear, it may be time for a roof replacement. As the roofing system ages, your home becomes more vulnerable to leaks, drafts, and moisture intrusion. Therefore, it is important to recognize the signs of aging before paying for a major replacement.
A roof replacement can be costly. However, it is a significant investment in your home’s stability, security, and longevity. Let’s look below at some of the signs that you need a professional roofer. If you have any further questions or would like to schedule a roof inspection, contact Quality Roofing today.
Roof Leaks
Whether you have a metal roof, asphalt shingles, or a tile roof, roof leaks can affect the structural integrity of the roofing system. Typically, rain, humidity, or condensation can cause water to invade a home. It also leaves watermarks that may be visible on the walls, ceiling, or in the attic.
Problems exist with cracked asphalt shingles, torn underlayment, separated boards, or poor roof ventilation. There may also be leaks in the flashing or the sealant that surrounds your chimney. As with a sagging roof, it is important to immediately deal with water leaks or moisture, as it can quickly deteriorate your roof.
Pooling Water
Pooling water occurs when water builds up and stagnates on the roof surface for longer than 48 hours. Large puddles can form on the roof surface because the drainage system is not adequate for the structure or due to various other issues with the roof design or the building infrastructure.
Pooling does not necessarily present an imminent threat, as roof membranes, covering, and underlayment is composed of water-resistant materials. Although immediate leakage is not likely to occur, frequent ponding can cause damage to the roof.
Pest Invasion
Due to the favorable Florida climate, pests can be a problem all year long. Some of the most common pests that can damage your roof include
- Squirrels
- Ants/termites
- Rats and mice
- Squirrels
- Birds
- Bees and wasps
Your roof can handle years of wear and tear, but common summer pests might result in costly unexpected repairs. If you need roof repair, it might be because of one of these common pests.
Roof Material Shrinkage
Roof shrinkage is the shrinking or shortening of the membrane, which coats your roofing materials. The membrane protects your roof from extreme Florida weather and temperature. So once it shrinks, your roofing becomes exposed to these elements, which can later result in roof damage.
Bitumen felt can expand in the hot summer and shrink in the winter on commercial buildings. As a result, when laying the bitumen felt in one section, down the drip edge, across the roof, and up the wall, a fold or crease will appear in the roof. The fold or crease can eventually lead to damage if the bitumen continues to expand and shrink each season.
Sagging Roof
A sagging roof is a clear indication that the roof system is in poor shape. There are several causes of a sagging roof including:
- Active roof leaks
- Improper design or construction
- The roof is old and worn out
- Damage to the decking or supporting framework
- The existing structure cannot support the roofing material
Sagging roof systems can create a hazardous environment within the home, as the roof may eventually collapse. Therefore, you should address the problem immediately before it gets worse and becomes more costly.
Roof Blistering
Blistering is a problem typically associated with a shingle roof. It is one of the most common roof problems and can often affect large portions of an aging roof. As the shingle gets older, the asphalt layer may lose its adhesion to the fiberglass substrate of the shingle. When it loses adhesion, air or water can get underneath the layer and form a pocket, resulting in an effect known as blistering.
This pocket is a bubble or a blister. A few bubbles do not present a problem. However, if you notice that the issue has become widespread, it may be time for a new roof installation or repair. The best way to assess the problem is to contact your roofing contractor for a roof inspection.
Missing or Broken Flashing
Most flashing is made of metal and shaped to match a certain roof detail. It may be along the roof perimeter, in the valleys, or other areas such as around a dormer, skylight, or chimney. The purpose of the flashing is to direct water away from areas that may be vulnerable to roof leaks.
Flashing is typically made from galvanized steel or aluminum and withstands the humid and salty Florida climate long-term. It is compatible with almost any type of roof material. However, roof leaks commonly occur at flashing locations due to breakdown of sealant, faulty installation, or corrosion. If you notice any cracked, loose, lifted, or corroded flashing, you will need to have it professionally replaced as soon as possible to avoid leaks.
Get a Comprehensive Roof Inspection
Many of the problems that plague a roof are subtle or not in plain view. If you can’t see the problems, then you can’t address them before they turn into costly issues that you have to address. If it has been an extended amount of time since anyone has looked at your roof, then now is the time to schedule a comprehensive roof inspection.
A roofing contractor can identify issues and make recommendations on the best way to handle them. A roofing inspection can save you hundreds of dollars in roof repairs down the road.
Get a Free Roof Replacement Estimate in Florida
Quality Roofing offers premier roofing services for homeowners in Florida. We can walk you through the process and help you with your insurance claims. To learn more about our roofing replacement solutions, call (850) 753-0041 or fill out the quick form on our contact page.
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