An asphalt shingle roof has a standard lifespan of 25-30 years, when properly cared for and maintained. When it starts nearing the end of its life, your roof may start showing signs that it is in need of replacement. Damaging weather or catastrophic events may also push your roof to the point of replacement.
Regardless of the cause, whether it is age, weather, or damage, your roof will tell you it is ready to be replaced. To help you determine if a repair or full replacement is needed, we’ve compiled this list of common signs your asphalt shingle roof is ready for replacement.
Visible Leaks
If your shingle roof is leaking inside of your home, very likely it is in need of a full replacement. By the time water penetrates the roofing material, underlayment, and roof deck, it has caused significant damage. A leak will show itself inside the home in forms of water spots on the ceiling or walls, visible puddles while it is raining, or even water in the attic.
Smaller leaks can be found and then repaired by a trained roofer. If they are caught early enough, a leak can be assessed, stopped, and fixed before additional damage is done. However, more times than not, a leak becomes persistent or it will grow and become several leaks within the roofing system. If this is the case, you will want to consider a full replacement of your asphalt shingle roof. Your local roofing company will be able to accurately determine the extent of the leak and provide you with a full assessment.
Cracked, Loose or Missing Shingles
Shingles that are cracked, loose, or missing can cause a roof to lose many years of its standard lifespan. Standing on the ground, you should be able to examine most of the shingles on your roof. Grab a pair of binoculars if you need a better sightline. Look for any shingles that are not in line with each other, cracked, or completely missing.
If you have a few that have noticeable damage, call your local roofer to examine the area and see how far the damage is. Extensive damage can occur if these damaged shingles are left unrepaired or unreplaced. A damaged roof can be a sign that it is ready for replacement. Call your trusted roofer to have them take a look at it and provide their expert opinion on repair versus replacement.
Missing Granules
A major sign that your asphalt shingle roof is nearing the end of its lifespan and ready for replacement is missing granules. As the roof ages and weather beats down on it, the granules on the shingles will start to go missing. Over time, the more granules that are missing from the roof, the weaker the shingles will become and the more likely your roof will become damaged.
Looking at your roof, you will see spotty areas where the granules are missing. You might also notice them at the exit points of your downspouts. A roofer will be able to look at the roof and let you know if just a few shingles need to be replaced or if it is time for the entire roof.
Damage
The most obvious sign that an asphalt shingle roof needs replaced is when there is significant damage to it. Storm damage is the most common cause of roof replacement. Whether it is from hail, heavy winds, significant rain, or even snow, the elements can wreak havoc on any roof!
Shingle roofs can be completely torn off, large parts of the roof can be lifted and cracked, branches can fall on top, debris can puncture the shingles, and so much more damage can be done. Furthermore, when these damaged roofs are left untouched for a period of time, it can result in further damage.
If you have experienced significant weather, examine your roof carefully. Call a roofer immediately if it has suffered any damage as they will likely have several phone calls after a massive storm. Install a temporary roof if you need to wait on the roofing company or insurance agent to fully assess the damage.
A roof that is ready to be replaced will let you know.
Understanding the signs and knowing what to keep an eye out for could help you save a lot in repair costs. Always put safety first when examining the roof yourself and contact your local roofing company if you cannot assess the roof yourself.
Craven Construction offers professional asphalt shingle roofing services to the entire East Valley, AZ. Our team brings over 30 years of expertise to each and every job while also being licensed and insured for your added peace of mind. Call our office today to schedule your FREE estimate and trust you are in good hands!
Is your shingle roof ready to be replaced?
About Craven Construction
Craven Construction is dedicated to providing our customers with honest and reliable roofing services. With over two decades of residential and commercial experience, we are here to serve you and all of your roofing needs.
Our team of experienced roofers is licensed and knowledgeable in working with all types of roofing. We offer high quality roofing services and are capable of getting your project completed in a timely, efficient manner.