The Sunday Mail
REPLACING a roof is a project we would all like to put off. It can be costly, depending on how much contractors charge by area and what type of materials you use.
Contractors can take one to several days to install a new roof.
Or, if you plan to replace the roof yourself, it is a large home remodel that could run you around a few days to weeks to complete, depending on how much time and help you have. All that said, if you do not replace your roof when you first see signs of wear, it can mean more costly repairs down the road. The most common problem is that water will seep in under worn shingles and cause damage to the structures below.
That is when leaks into the home and mould start to happen.
On the more mild side, an old roof can look just plain ugly.
Signs that your roof might need to be replaced.
Replace your roof if the shingles are in bad shape
The easiest way to tell that you need to replace your roof is that the shingles themselves are starting to look worn. There are a few ways to tell that you will need a new roof based on how your shingles look:
◆ The edges of the shingles may be curled or have a cup-like appearance;
◆ The shingles are cracking; and
◆ There may be bald patches.
Moss is appearing
Another key sign that you may need to replace your roof is that you are seeing moss on or between the shingles.
Moss itself is not an automatic sign that you need a new roof immediately.
Moss does naturally grow on or between shingles, especially on roofs that are in shaded or moist climates. But moss could hint at hidden damage.
The problem with moss is that when it rains, the moss absorbs the water like a sponge and holds onto it.
The whole point of shingles is to allow water to roll off the roof and into gutters. When moss is present, it keeps that moisture from going where it is meant to go.
That can lead to the shingles themselves breaking down.
Since moss impedes the water from reaching the gutters, it can also lead to that water seeping into the layers under the shingles, causing water damage and mould growth.
Consider the age of the roof
The age of the roof also matter.
This is not a warning sign you can see at times, but it is worth keeping in mind. Roofs that are at least 20-years-old may benefit from replacement with higher quality materials.
Slate, copper and clay/concrete roofs can last over 50 years and wood shake roofs can last around 30, for instance.
So, depending on what material you have on your roof and the last time it was replaced, it could just be time so that you avoid leaks down the road.
And, remember, for an investment this large, you might want to consider getting materials that will last longer and be more durable, like metal roofing.
If you plan correctly, you might not have to replace your roof ever again. — freshome.com
