In Pennsylvania, roofs take a lot of wear and tear. Between snow, wind, hail, rain, and the warm summer heat, roofs get put through the wringer.
Thankfully, even in these conditions, roofs are made to last up to 20 years. A roof replacement can even bring up to a 109% return on your investment.
So how do you know if it’s time to replace your roof? While you probably know the more obvious signs, there are plenty of red flags that are hard to see from inside your home.
From what signs to watch out for to roof maintenance tips, think of this as your go-to roofing guide for homes in Pennsylvania.
The Roof Is Leaking
If you see water pooling on your roof, it’s time to investigate.
A leaking roof is a big problem. It can damage your home significantly. This means you must get the problem fixed as soon as possible. Several factors can cause leaky roofs.
Damaged shingles and flashings are often the culprits here. Flashing is the material used around chimneys and vents. Damage to your gutters could also cause water to leak inside your home.
Check your attic if you suspect a leaking roof. If you see signs of water damage inside your ceiling or smell mold or see rotting wood, it’s time to call a professional. Water leaks aren’t something you should attempt to fix on your own.
Shingles Are Damaged or Missing
If you notice that your shingles are damaged or missing, it’s imperative to get your roof evaluated. Shingles can be damaged by hail, wind, and other weather conditions. Animals and birds can also damage shingles.
Tree branches can occasionally fall onto your house and damage your shingles over time. From the ground, those branches aren’t always easy to see. You may only see the aftereffects of missing or damaged shingles after it’s too late.
If you see cracks in your shingles, it could mean water damage underneath them, and further damage may occur if left untreated. Replacing your shingles can prevent this from happening and will protect your home from further damage caused by moisture issues or leaks.
There Are Significant Holes in Your Roof
if you see a hole in your roof, even if it’s the size of a nail, it’s best to get it repaired immediately. it’s best to get it repaired immediately. The longer you leave the hole unrepaired, the more water will get into your house and damage it.
A hole in your roof will not only lead to more damage but can also cause expensive damage to the rest of your home. Holes can cause elements to come in and heating or cooling to go out.
You’ll waste tons of money and energy on heat and air conditioning escaping from these holes and cracks in your roof. Even if a hole appears small, you’ll want to get a professional to take a look.
You Have Spots You Can’t Explain
If you have spots on your roof that you can’t explain, it’s time to check for leaks. Leaks are the most common cause of water damage in homes and can be challenging to spot. The best way to do this is with a leak detector.
A leak detector device detects moisture by sending out electromagnetic waves onto the surface of your roof. The detectors then measure any changes in their reflection when they bounce off an area where moisture is present.
If you’re unsure whether there is a leaky spot on your roof but want confirmation, hire an expert who specializes in identifying and repairing leaks. They can inspect all sides of your house, walls, and attics to ensure nothing has been overlooked.
Your Roof or Walls Are Warping, Rotting, or Shifting
If your home is warping, rotting, or shifting in any way, it’s time to call a roofing contractor. These are all signs of surface damage that need to be addressed. Warping can occur when the wood underneath your roof expands or contracts due to changes in humidity and temperature.
Rotting occurs when water gets trapped between layers of shingles due to poor drainage around fasteners such as nails or screws. Shifting happens when ice dams form during winter storms.
Dams cause snow meltwater to pool under your shingles instead of draining away naturally through gutters. The result is a warped roofline where water pools together until it freezes again later in wintertime.
Roof Replacement vs. Roof Repair
When it comes to roof tips and maintenance, getting it adequately inspected is one of the best things you can do. A professional can best tell you if your roof needs to be entirely replaced or if you can make some smaller repairs.
The age and condition of your roof will play a significant role in determining which is more cost-effective. A 15-year-old roof, for example, will likely make more sense to replace due to its age. A 2-year-old roof damaged in a storm may be saved with minor repairs.
Choosing Professional Roofing Services
A roof is one of the most critical parts of a home. The integrity and structure of a roof are vital to keeping the rest of your home safe and protected. This area is too important to try and tackle yourself if you aren’t adequately trained.
Calling a professional will help ensure your job is done correctly. In addition to roof replacements and repairs, when you choose a roofing contractor, you may want to look into someone who specializes in home exteriors and can evaluate everything and can be a one-stop shop (you know what I mean) to handle everything.
Call for a Free Roof Evaluation Today
If you have any of these signs, it may be time for a roof replacement. If you are unsure, one of our project consultants at O’Donnell Roofing will inspect your roof and give you an estimate. We can tell you how much repairing or replacing your roof would cost. To learn more and to speak with a home exterior expert, fill out the contact form here.
