Roof Replacement | 10 Reasons it Might be in your Future

Do you know when it is time for a roof replacement on your home? It may not be as obvious as you think and it doesn’t have to mean that your roof is leaking buckets of water. The ideal situation is to catch any problems before significant damage occurs.

10 Reasons Why You Could Need a Roof Replacement

#1 Damaged or Worn out Flashing

Sometimes a roof replacement is required because of flashing that has deteriorated. Flashing is metal that is used to protect the roof and prevent any moisture from infiltrating into the layers underneath the roofing material. If flashing is broken, damaged, or deteriorated then this will allow water into undesired areas and can damage other systems and structural components.

Flashing problems do not always mean you have to have a complete roof replacement. However, it can be an indication that your roof is aging. Flashing repairs often can be done that will prolong the life of the roof. A reputable roofing company will tell you if a repair is all you need at the time.

#2 Inadequate Home Maintenance

Improper home maintenance is a common reason why a roof may need to be replaced. An annual inspection of the roof should be performed, and any damage or other issues should be addressed immediately so that your roof stays in good condition and has a long life. Early replacement can be caused by not properly maintaining your home. Gutter Cleaning LeavesKeeping your gutters clean and free of debris is one such home maintenance that can help prolong the life of your roof. Debris built up in gutters can cause ice and water dams that can damage your roof and roof deck.

When leaves pile too deeply in gutters, water can wick into roof sheathing and rot it, or even rot roof rafters.

Source: HouseLogic.com

#3 Sun and Heat Damage

The sun can cause you to need a roof replacement if proper precautions are not taken. Sunlight puts ultraviolet rays and heat on the roof surface and both of these elements can cause the materials to degrade and deteriorate faster. An experienced roofing professional can identify and resolve these problems before they become severe.

#4 Mold and Algae

One roof replacement reason that is commonly seen by roofing companies is the growth of algae or moss on the roof. These organic substances allow more moisture to be retained, and this can cause the roofing materials and underlying components to rot because they stay damp all the time and the materials cannot dry out.

Algae and mold does not always mean that you need a roof replacement. But letting this problem go too long will definitely age and damage your roof.

The less expensive solution is to spray wash the roof with a 50 percent mix of water and bleach to get rid of the algae.

Source: ThisOldHouse.com

#5 Condensation and Improper Ventilation

Condensation is another big problem, and proper home maintenance can help prevent this issue and save you from replacing your roof. If the attic is poorly ventilated then warm air that is heavy with moisture can cause condensation. This can spell devastation for the roof sheathing and rafters as well as other components.

In the summer, good attic ventilation reduces heat buildup. That cuts cooling costs and prolongs shingle life.

Source: FamilyHandyman.com

#6 Damaged or Missing Shingles

A full roof replacement may be required if you have a large number of shingles that are damaged or missing. This can be a sign of serious damage or deterioration, and the entire roof structure needs to be evaluated by an experienced professional. The damage that you can not see may be much greater than the visible damage.

Roof ReplacementClick here to read our article about missing shingles.

#7 High Winds

Severe winds can do so much damage that a complete roof replacement is needed. Proper home maintenance will not help you prevent severe storm or hail damage from a devastating event. High winds can actually grab and lift up the edges of the roof material such as shingles, and eventually these components will be torn loose.

Skylights, roof vents and roof turbines are vulnerable to high winds and hail. You need to choose products that have a published wind resistance rating.

Source: tdi.Texas.gov

#8 Punctures and Holes

An undetected breach in the roof frequently leads to a complete roof replacement, because you may not realize there is a problem until extensive damage is done. A small puncture can allow rain to get into the underlying structure, and this may not be visible until moisture gets through the ceiling of the room. By then a new roof may be needed.

#9 Snow and Ice Damage

One big consideration with home maintenance is the snow and ice that occurs in colder climates. Snow can melt and then refreeze, creating ice that can wedge underneath your roof and create havoc. There are ways to prevent this problem, such as installing an ice dam, because snow and ice can ruin a roof quickly in some areas.

Roof Ice Damage

#10 Hanging Branches and Trees

One of the biggest reasons that an early roof replacement is needed is because of trees. If the roof comes into contact with hanging branches this can damage the roof materials. Branches and limbs that fall onto the roof can also cause a breach in your roof, and then moisture can get in and start causing damage.

Proper Maintenance helps Prolong the Life of your Roof

When it is actually time for a roof replacement be sure to contact Crane Roofing and we will be happy to provide our services. We are also very experienced in roof repairs and maintenance that can help prolong the life of your roof. Call us at 314.966.4889 or 636.724.1300.

Have you ever needed a roof replacement? Why?

Elizabeth Crane

Elizabeth Crane was born and raised in St. Louis and is a die-hard Cardinals fan. She is one of the original founders of Crane Roofing. While her sons now run the business, she contributes by researching and writing articles for the website.

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