How to Tell When It's Time to Replace Your Roof
The roof is one of the most important parts of your house as it protects you from the elements and keeps your family safe and dry. That’s why it’s important to maintain your roof and keep it in good condition. But how do you know when it’s time to replace your roof, instead of just repairing it? Here are a few things to look for.
Solar Panels On Roofs
In Sonoma County, many homeowners are installing solar panels on their roofs to offset the rising costs for electricity and utilities. This is a great idea for saving money and the environment from non-renewable resource usages. On the other hand, these types of installs can cause more stress to your roof and may need more frequent repairs due to the weight and compromised structure. While we see solar energy totally worth it, it can increase the maintenance of your roof a little bit.
The Age of Your Roof
One of the first things to consider is the age of your roof. The average asphalt shingle roof will last between 15 and 20 years, depending on the climate and weather conditions in your area. Here in Sonoma County, 15 years to 17 years is about the average while other places in the US will need to replace them sooner due to heavy snow and brutal weather. For us in the sunshine state, we just worry about high heat, debris, and wildfires. If your roof is approaching or has surpassed that age, it may be time to start thinking about replacing it.
Signs of Roof Damage
Another factor to consider is the condition of your roof. Are there signs of damage, such as missing or damaged shingles? Is there any evidence of leaks or water damage? Are the gutters filled with debris? These are all signs that your roof may need to be replaced and may have other serious repairs.
If you’re not sure whether you need a new roof or just some repairs, it’s always a good idea to have a professional inspection. A qualified contractor or roofer will be able to tell you for sure whether you need a new roof or if repairs will suffice.
Reasonable Repairs
Depending on the age and condition of your roof, it might not be necessary to replace the whole rooftop. In some cases, a roof will just need a few shingles to be replaced and inspected for any other issues that may cause water from getting in.
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your house, so it’s important to keep it in good condition. Always have a professional inspection done before making a decision as they can give the best insight of what the roof needs for a well maintained home and avoid water damage.