Sometimes, it\u2019s obvious you need a new roof\u2014like when water starts dripping from the ceiling and onto your kitchen table.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But in many situations, the question of roof repair vs. replacement is a difficult one. Even if you\u2019re following best practices<\/a> to inspect your roof twice a year, you may not know what to look out for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Fortunately, we\u2019ve put together a simple guide on everything you should know about when to replace a roof\u2014so read on to learn how to diagnose yours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n Depending on the materials used, your roof may have reached its expiration date.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Roofs made of clay or metal can last from 50 to 100 years, but more popular asphalt roofs often need to be replaced every 15 to 20 years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you aren\u2019t sure how old your roof is, you may want to get a new one when your neighbors start getting theirs: homes built around the same time often need roof replacement around the same time. Otherwise, it can help to reach out to an expert like the team of Ragsdale Roofing and Innovations LLC<\/a>. A roofing contractor will be able to approximate the structure’s remaining lifespan, helping you decide on roof repair or replacement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s every homeowner\u2019s worst nightmare: roof damage from a natural disaster or falling tree. When severe damage like this happens, especially when the damage extends to over 30% of your roof, there\u2019s no need to debate on roof repair and replacement. Buy a new roof to ensure structural stability and avoid the potential safety hazard of an unfinished roof.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Alternatively, you might be seeing a leaky attic, or you may notice a visible sag. While you don\u2019t need to worry about imminent danger here, you should take care of these issues before they can impact the rest of your home\u2019s structure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Often a sign of an older roof, warped or curling shingles are a bad sign. These changes happen as a result of weather damage, and they can be a precursor to roof leaks and other major issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Even if you don\u2019t notice visible warping, be sure to check for shingle granules when you clean your gutters as well. These granules help keep the sun from baking your asphalt shingles, and when they wear away over time and with severe weather, it leaves your roof less protected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Structural issues are key signs that replacement is needed, but some homeowners worry just as much about cosmetic issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For example, while it\u2019s not uncommon to replace a missing shingle during basic roof repair, you should question this patch job if your roof begins looking like a checkerboard. For the sake of visual consistency, you may want to simply replace the entire roof.<\/p>\n\n\n\nYour Roofing Materials Are Old<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Your Roof Has Suffered Structural Damage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Your Shingles Are Warping or Degraded<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019re Worried About Cosmetic Issues<\/h2>\n\n\n\n