When should you replace your roof? Many homeowners assume that the best time to replace their roof is when they start experiencing issues like leaks and peeling flashing. But actually, if you wait this long, you're probably waiting too long. As it turns out, you are far better off replacing your roof a little too early than a little too late.
1. Why is early roof replacement better?
When you replace your roof earlier, all you have to do is replace your roof. You don't have to pull out pound after pound of wet, moldy attic insulation and replace that insulation. You don't have to repair a chimney with bricks that have deteriorated after water has leaked down behind the flashing. Not only is replacing your roof earlier less costly, but it's also less work and less hassle.
Also, what's the worst that can happen if you replace your roof before it really needed to replace? You waste a year or two of the old roof's lifespan. You would have to replace the roof anyway, so you're really not losing out. Chances are, you won't even live in the house in 20 or 30 years when it needs another new roof. What's the worst that can happen if you wait too long to replace the roof? Well, a lot of water damage—maybe a collapsed roof. It won't be pretty.
2. How do you know when it's a good time to replace your roof?
Here are some of the earlier signs you should replace your roof now, rather than waiting for leaks and other bigger issues to appear.
- There are shingle granules in your gutters or yard. Granule loss indicates your shingles are on their way out.
- There's moss growth on your roof. Moss leads to premature roof deterioration, so replace the roof before things really get bad.
- Your roof is nearing the end of its warranty. For example, if you have 30-year shingles and it has been 29 years, go ahead and just call the roofing company.
- Shingles are lifting or peeling. Don't wait for them to completely fall off; it's time for a new roof.
Far too many homeowners wait too long before replacing their roof. You don't want to be one of them. You are better off replacing the roof a year or two early than waiting just a little too long to do so. Contact a roof replacement contractor to learn more.
