The process of replacing a roof can be complicated for anyone and deciding to begin the project can seem overwhelming. Normal wear and tear can affect even the strongest roof, and repairs can only go so far. Untrained eyes might have a hard time determining when it's time to get your roof replaced. 

A trusted roofing contractor should always give you their professional opinion, but there are some indicators that you can look for to determine when a new roof is needed.

Signs Your Roof Needs to Be Replaced

You Notice Signs of Structural Failure

There are times when a roof is faulty or weak due to its original, faulty construction, and will require replacement before it has reached its natural lifespan. The following major signs of roof failure may indicate a need for roofing replacement:

• Mold Growth
• Water Stains
• Lost, Broken, Or Loose Shingles
• Sagging Areas
• Loose Flashing
• Exposed Nails

Tar Streaking or Algae Growth

A bacterium eats away at the weather-proofing properties of shingles, causing tar streaks and algae growth. To keep shingle production costs low, cheap shingle manufacturers use limestone as a filler.

Your Roof Is More Than 20 Years Old

Residential roofs last on average two decades, although different materials can last longer or shorter. Roof maintenance becomes more difficult after 20 years, and simple repairs can cause significant damage to what was once a simple issue.

Parts of Your Roof Have Been Seriously Damaged

Fires and bad storms may damage parts of your roof beyond repair if you have suffered a disaster. The best course of action in these situations is to prioritize replacement over repair, even though it may be difficult to assess on your own.

The Roof Sags

Sagging indicates that moisture trapped under the roof has rotted away boards. When your roof droops and sags, it's time to replace it before additional damage occurs. At the lowest points in your roof, check for signs of the moisture trapped, rotting boards, or sagging. 

If you stand back and look at your house from different angles, you may be able to see this. It is important to keep a roof's lines straight so that any sagging or slumping will be easy to spot.

Daylight Coming Through Roof Boards

In addition to this, your roof is also at risk of moisture damage because of this opening.

A streak of light from the roof decking may mean corrosive materials have lost their weatherproofing properties, resulting in the nails falling through.

Attic Temperature Different from Outdoor Temperature

There should be enough ventilation in your attic to circulate air in and out of your attic to keep its temperature consistent with the outdoor temperature.

To prevent ice dams from forming, this ventilation is crucial. The attic of your home may suffer from ice dams if it is warmer than the outside temperature. As a result of poor attic ventilation, exterior paint may blister or peel.

To keep your roof cool and dry, you should have ridge vents to remove excess heat and moisture. Ridge vents can also help you reduce energy bills and prevent paint from peeling prematurely.

Leaky Chimneys

For your home to be sealed away from the elements, your roof and chimney should be properly flashed.

When water leaks around your chimney, this is usually a sign that it has not been flashed correctly or that it is not functioning properly.

Call Louisiana Roof Crafters at 985-238-4575 for more information. We service areas in Baton Rouge, Denham Springs, Hammond, Covington, Mandeville, Slidell, and New Orleans, LA.