Keeping your home up to code in Florida can be quite the hassle, as depending on where you live, the code requirements are a lot. Like most life investments, all homes require upkeep to ensure maximum comfort and security as years go on. If you’ve been in your home for a decade or more, you’re likely to have mulled over investing in a roof replacement. However, before jumping to the decision to install a new roof, there are a few signs to watch for to figure out whether or not the time is good for you and your property.
With only a tiny amount of research, you’ve probably come across the” 20″ year rule for longevity of most roofing systems. This number of 20 years in many areas of Florida is the best-case scenario. Often, roofs 15 years, give or take, may also need to be replaced.
The roof takes on more wear and tear with each passing year, even if no hurricanes blow through. Direct sunlight, strong winds, flying trees, wildlife, tropical storms, levels of rain, and dangerous weather conditions – all play a factor in your roof’s lifetime. Below are a few factors that will play into the lifespan of your roof:
What kind of weather is experienced.
Proper maintenance and care.
How old the materials are.
The quality of materials in use.
The craftsmanship of the installation to begin with.
Were repairs addressed when needed?
Keeping pests and rodents away.
External debris build-up.
Take Into Consideration Your Roof’s Age
Before inspecting your roof for damages and other issues is how old it is. Roofs that are decades old almost always require a total reroof, even if the roof itself looks in good shape from the naked eye. Roofs from decades ago were many times created with materials that are no longer useful or considered durable by today’s standards.
Thoroughly Check The Interior Of The Roof
Grab a good flashlight with an intense beam, as the first step here is to get in the attic or interior of the roof structure to see if you can identify any easy signs a replacement may be needed.
If one of these four signs are spotted, it may be time to contact a roofing company about a new roof replacement:
1) Daylight Through The Roof Boards
Before turning your flashlight on, try to locate any rays of sunlight coming through breaks or punctures in your roof. If light is spotted shining through your roof, repair or replace your roof right away. Now ask yourself, if the light is getting through the roof, what do you think water is going to do?
2) Dark Streaking & Stains
Take a look at the walls, and if you notice dark stains and streaking coming from the top down to the base, it means you are dealing with water damage.
3) Sagging Areas
Wet wood will, in time, become very weakened. If you come across sagging portions of your roof, use your hand or a stick to poke. And prod and see if it feels soft and wet or moves around quickly with a touch of your stick.
4) Leaks In The Roof
This is somewhat obvious; if you see water leaking into the roof, then the roof is not in good shape. Therefore, there is a significant chance, especially if the roof is old, to be replaced.
Are The Shingles In Poor Condition?
Carefully get on the roof to inspect the current condition the shingles are in. When checking out the outdoor shingles of your home’s roof, try to find any cracks, misshapen shingles, any shingles that may be starting to curl upwards.
Finding tiny granules all over your roof or building up in your gutter can also be a sign that the time has come for a complete and thorough roof replacement. Excessive asphalt granule loss is a big sign that the roof’s condition is not where it needs. It to be to provide your roof can hold up to a large storm.
Large Amounts Of Moss & Growth
Often moss will be seen on areas of the roof that do not get much direct sunlight. Especially in colder country regions. In addition, Moss retains water against the surface, which can result in damage.
Have you recently noticed algae or other types of natural growth on top or out of your roof? Don’t panic. Nature tends to grow over any structure in its path if it is not adequately cared for and maintained.
Most of the time, treating the growths from a roof is a way to rapidly fix the problem. No more further investments or repairs. But if you notice moss growing on the roof or inside the property, it is highly advisable to work with a roofing contractor to determine the root cause and reason for the growth.
When growths in nature have overtaken a roof, you may need to replace the roof; there is a proverbial point of no return for a roof that is completely covered in thick growth.
Fortunately, algae growth and accumulation aren’t typically indicators that you must repair or replace your roof. Rather, algae is more of just an eyesore on your roof. And one that is quite common in humid areas like Florida.
If you do require a complete roof replacement, in the end, there. Then becomes a number of decisions that will need to be weighed. Like whether you opt for tile or shingles or perhaps select to go with metal. Which Fort Lauderdale roofing contractor will be right for you to work with? If you maybe have a valid insurance claim. There are roof financing options accessible for qualified homeowners offered by most reputable companies. Ensure you thoroughly vet any roofing company you are thinking about hiring.
