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5 Big Signs You Need to Replace Your Roof

It’s essential for your home to have a well-functioning roof. Your roof is your first line of defense against sunlight, wind, and inclement weather. However, your roofing material may break down, particularly if your tiles are older than 20 years. That’s why you will want to hire a local company in Springfield, IL to repair your roof and prevent further damage to your home.

5 Big Signs You Need to Replace Your Roof

1. Missing Roofing Tiles

One of the most obvious signs that you need to replace your roof is evidence of missing tiles or shingles. If you stand outside and you notice that there is a patch or two of missing shingles, this means that you are now working against the clock to prevent water damage and wood rot to your home. This is because missing tiles are often indicative of the age of the roof.

When your tiles are no longer adhering to your roof, your home is exposed to water, critters, and further damage to your roof. Some people may find missing roof shingles after big storms, especially during the winter and windy parts of the year. If you find a roof shingle on your lawn, the best thing you can do is contact a repair company.

2. Leaking Roof

A leaking roof is perhaps the single most obvious sign that you have a problem on your hands. Your roof is meant to be a watertight seal that prevents all water from getting into your home, but when you have new leaks all the time, this can indicate that your roof is damaged. A leaking roof will affect your attic space, rooms on the upper floor, and sometimes even your first-floor dwelling.

Not only is a leaking roof troublesome, but wood rot can set in very quickly and compromise the structural integrity of your home. Many homeowners who deal with long-term leaks don’t realize that the supporting beams in the home may be damaged by continued exposure to water. It’s best to repair a damaged, leaking roof quickly so you can avoid other expensive repairs for your house.

3. Damaged Shingles

Damaged shingles can include shingles that are curling, warped by the heat, cracked, or generally deteriorating. Most of the time, shingles are only damaged after several years, which means that damaged shingles are a sign of old roof age. Damaged shingles can become more damaged in windy weather and heavy storms, so it’s best to replace these shingles quickly.

4. Sagging Roof

A visibly sagging roof is another reason why you may need to call a roof repair company. Visible sagging can often be caused by excess weight on the roof, such as from water or heavy snowfall. A sagging roof is a threat to the structure of your home because the roof can only handle so much weight for so long before it eventually collapses. A collapsed roof needs expensive damages, including rebuilding your entire roof structure.

5. Interior Water Stains

If you notice interior water stains in your home, this is usually an indication that you have a leak somewhere. Water staining can appear on the upper walls and can look like dried rust. If you notice any visible water staining on your ceiling, in ceiling corners, or dripping down your walls, this is usually a sign that your roof is letting in water.

Oftentimes, signs of interior water damage may not always include water stains. You may have water damage on your interior walls if you notice buckling drywall, cracks in drywall, or ripples in drywall. A roof repair company will be able to examine any signs of water damage to locate the source of the leak and give you a better idea of the extent of your damage.

Can Gutters Be a Sign You Need a New Roof in Springfield, IL?

Sometimes, damage to your gutters can also be a sign that you need a new roof. Because of how roofs are constructed, your gutter system is tied closely to the function of your roof. If you have a missing gutter system, clogged gutters, or other issues with your gutters, you may need to replace a part of your roof to avoid water damage and leaks in the future.

Why Should You Schedule a Roofing Inspection?

It’s a good idea to schedule a roof inspection if you notice any leaks in your home or other signs of water damage. Inspecting your roof at the first sign of trouble is the best way to save money since unchecked roof damage can cause expensive repairs. A roof inspection in Springfield, IL will examine the health of your tiles and look for cracked shingles, exposed nails, and any visible signs of open seams or joints on your roof.

Furthermore, a roof inspection will search for signs of insect damage, animal damage, wood rot damage, biological growth such as algae, moss, or mold, or other signs of possible roof damage. Your roof inspector may also examine the condition of your drain pipes, drain boots, gutters, and roof ventilation.

What Roofing Material Is Best?

The best roof material is premium Timberline HTZ shingles, which are made with an incredibly durable material that can last for years. This material is the premier shingle used in North America and has many colors to choose from.  

You may also want to consider GAF Lifetime Designer Shingles, which include affordable, yet luxurious collections such as Glenwood, Camelot, and Grand Canyon. Additionally, if your neighborhood has certain HOA requirements, the GAF Value Collection Series includes designs such as Camelot II, Monaco, Sienna, and Woodland shingles that will meet the standards of your neighborhood organization.

There are several signs that can indicate it’s time to replace your roof. It’s important to recognize these signs early on so that you can avoid costly repairs in the future. Some of the signs you may need to replace your roof can include leaks, damaged shingles, or a sagging roof. Contact Suttons in Springfield, IL to get an estimate on your roof repair today.

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