It can be easy to forget about roof care. Unless there is water leaking into their houses, the roof is not something that most Arizona homeowners tend to worry about. However, a roof can reach the end of its visible life without experiencing any visible damage, which means that it can be difficult to tell when it’s time for replacement. Here at RENCO Roofing, we’re Arizona’s premier roofing contractor, and our expert roofers are here to help you with five signs that your roof needs to be replaced.
Roof Age
How old is your existing roof? Most expert roofers agree that a typical asphalt shingle roof lasts between 20 and 25 years, slate, copper, and tile roofs last over 50 years, wood shake roofs last about 30 years, and fiber cement shingles last 25 years. Climate and weather conditions such as snow, hail, and hurricanes can cut the lifespan of a roof. If your roof is getting up there in age, it may be time for replacement.
Shingles Curling and Buckling
One primary sign that your roof needs to be replaced is shingles that are curling or buckling. Luckily, you don’t even need to climb up on your roof to see curling or buckling shingles. Because direct sunlight is a primary cause of shingling and buckling, all you need to do is look at the slopes of your roof that receive direct sunlight. If you then notice curling shingles that are losing granules, it’s an indication that they are past their life expectancy.
Damaged Roof Valleys
Another observation that you can make without climbing on your roof is whether there are damaged roof valleys. Valleys play a crucial role in roof health because rain flows through them into the gutters. Damaged or missing shingles in the roof valley can lead to rain leaking through the roof into the attic.
Shingle Granules in the Gutter
If you get up on your roof to inspect the gutters, one thing to check out is whether shingle granules have accumulated in them. Poorly designed valley drainage in the roof can cause a waterfall effect that washes away shingle granules over time. And when these granules disappear into the gutters, shingles can quickly harden and age from exposure to the hot Arizona sun.
Here’s How to Tell When You Need to Replace Your Gutters
Unwanted Moss
Moss growing on your roof is an indication that there is trapped moisture under the shingles, which can ruin a roof. If there is a small amount of moss, it can be brushed away and the roof is salvageable, but larger amounts can be an indication that your roof is losing its ability to withstand moisture.
Trusted Arizona Roofing Contractors
Waiting too much time to replace your roof can lead to serious and costly water damage in your house. Before roof damage becomes a larger issue, contact a roofing contractor at RENCO Roofing to perform an evaluation and replacement, if necessary. Our roofing company is a family-owned and operated business serving all of Arizona. Contact us today at (602) 867-9386 with any roofing questions or needs.
