Homeowners don’t usually think about their roof until signs of serious damage appear. Even then, you may procrastinate in the hopes that the roof will hold. The fact is, you mustn’t wait for water to pour through the ceiling before you pay attention to our roof. In this post, roof repair and replacement expert Patriot Roofing LLC shares a checklist for determining if you will need a roof.
Check Your Attic for Leaks
The first place to check is your attic. Take a flashlight and climb up under the eaves. If you see beams of light coming through the top of the house or stains and streaks, chances are you have a leaky roof. A serious leak signals a roof replacement.
Check Your Home Maintenance Records
Check your records to see when your last roof replacement or re-shingle was. This offers insight into how much life your roof has left in it. A typical asphalt shingle roof lasts 20 to 25 years. Roofing with re-layered shingles needs replacement after 20 years.
Check Flashing for Proper Seals
Examine the flashing around vents, skylights, and chimneys. They should seal the seams of the roof from rain and weather. Cracks or breaks in these areas could lead to leaks. Upgrading to a metal flashing system will add durability to your roof.
Check Your Shingles, Gutters and Downspouts
Check to make sure your shingles still lie flat against the roof after heavy storms. If you see cracked, damaged or buckling shingles, then repairs are in order. If you see shingle granules lying in the gutters and downspouts, your roof may be at the end of its useful life. These granules could also cause blocked gutters and overflow. Such damage could lead to the need for a new gutter installation.
A well-installed roof that’s younger than 15 or 20 years old may get by with repairs rather than a full replacement. When in doubt, consult Patriot Roofing LLC for a professional opinion. We serve homeowners in Norman, OK, and other nearby areas. Call us at (405) 217-0473 for a free estimate.