How To Know if Your Roof Needs Replacing
The Top 8 Signs Your Leesburg, VA, Roof Needs Replacing
Know What To Look For And Keep Your Home Safe
Your Leesburg, VA, roof is one of the most important aspects of your home, and keeping it in good condition is essential. Regular maintenance can help fix minor issues, but when a major problem arises, it’s usually best to replace the entire roof. A replacement is a significant investment, so you want to be sure you need it before hiring a professional.
We get it – no one likes the idea of replacing their roof. It can seem daunting and expensive, but a safe and secure roof is crucial. Your roof keeps you warm and protects you and your loved ones from the elements.
If you think it might be time to replace your Loudon County roof, look at these eight signs to make sure!
1. Roof Debris In The Gutters
Your asphalt roof shingles overlap to create a tight protective layer for your home. Once your shingles are installed, a sealant keeps everything in place. However, over time, the bond between the sealant and layers of shingles begins to break down and deteriorate.
When the sealant weakens and the asphalt shingles start to decline, you will notice debris in your gutters. The debris is often described as a granular material, and you may even see small pieces of asphalt in your gutters.
Seeing this type of debris may be one of the first signs that your roof is nearing the end of its life and will need to be replaced.
2. Loose Shingles
Loose shingles are something every Leesburg, VA, homeowner needs to check for regularly. You will find that a few loose shingles can be seen after a storm, especially if there is high wind. However, a few loose shingles every few months or after a storm is not something to be overly concerned about.
The problem arises when you find loose shingles often and in large numbers. If you check your roof every month and find an increasing amount of problem areas, it usually signals that the roof is aging out and needs replacing.
When this type of damage occurs, you are past the point of repair, and it’s time for an asphalt roof replacement.
3. Damage To Flashing
Your roof’s flashing is applied in areas where water runoff is expected to be the greatest. For instance, your chimneys and vents are prime locations for protective flashing.
Flashing can become damaged due to severe storms or even due to time – the caulking used to seal the seams will eventually crumble and wash away.
If your flashing is loose or damaged in any way, it will allow water to seep into your home, causing rotted wood, mildew, and even mold growth within your home. When the flashing is damaged, it often affects the integrity of your entire roof.
4. Leaks
Leaks in your Loudon County home often indicate that your roof needs to be replaced. Unfortunately, if you’ve started seeing leaks in your home, it usually means the damage is severe.
Signs of leaks caused by a faulty roof include the following:
- Bubbling on the walls as water may be running behind it
- Stains on the ceiling often described as yellow-brown colors
- Water stains on wood seen in attics
- Sagging ceilings
Many homeowners also report that they smell mildew – especially if they have allergies or a sensitive nose. Water damage can wreak havoc on your home’s structure and your health. If you suspect a leaky roof, call a trustworthy professional roofer immediately.
5. Age
What is the age of your roof? Similar to most materials in your home, your asphalt roof has a finite lifespan. Knowing the age of your roof can be a great indicator that you need to start considering an asphalt roof replacement.
Your roof’s lifespan depends upon the type of asphalt shingles used initially – and whether or not there are multiple layers on the roof. Believe it or not, roofs with more than one layer of asphalt often age faster than those with a single layer.
The rule of thumb is that if your roof is older than twenty years old, it needs to be checked by a professional to ensure it is still doing its job. Of course, even a newer roof might need to be replaced, especially if it’s had damage from a storm or poor maintenance over the years.
6. Sunken Areas On Roof
From your front yard, look at your roof to see whether it appears even or not. When you notice a sunken area of your roof, it can be cause for concern as it could mean water has seeped into the roof and broken down the underlayment and decking material.
When areas are sunken in, your Leesburg, VA, home’s roof could be at risk of collapsing. You must contact a professional as soon as possible for your safety.
7. Moss Growing On Roof
While the presence of moss on your roof doesn’t always mean replacement, it is cause for concern.
Moss grows when moisture is abundant. Therefore, it could mean that water has penetrated the exterior of your roof. If that’s the case, a roof replacement might be necessary to protect against future leaks or failure.
While moss can be brushed off, it could impact the granules of the shingles, resulting in the shingles no longer doing their job correctly of protecting your home.
8. Dark Areas On Roof
Most homeowners might not notice dark spots on their roofs. They can be difficult to pinpoint with the eye, especially from the ground.
But if you see darkened patches, it may indicate the presence of water beneath your shingles and underlayment.
While your darker areas may be due to the rest of the roof getting more sun, it does not hurt to have the roof checked to ensure there is nothing more concerning.
Does Your Leesburg, VA, Roof Need To Be Replaced? Let The Pros At Milcon Design & Build Take A Look
If you think your Leesburg, VA, roof needs to be replaced, or if you just want peace of mind, call our team of experts for a free assessment. We’ll come to your home and inspect every inch of your roof – so you’ll know once and for all.
Call Milcon Design & Build today at 703–581–2761 to schedule your appointment!