Roofs are made of different materials and can last for decades in mild conditions and with proper maintenance. However, if the roofing gets exposed to very harsh weather conditions or is made from substandard materials, it can easily get damaged. Some damages can be repaired by a roofing repair contractor, while in some cases, a replacement will be needed.
If a damaged roof is not replaced on time, it can give rise to problems such as mold and mildew growth and leak issues. Here are three signs that it is time to get a roof replacement in Portland.
Recurrent Leaks
Although minor leaks can be fixed through repair, it is time to consider replacing the roof if the roof requires multiple repairs for leakage issues. When damaged roofs allow water to go through, it can cause mold and mildew to grow in areas with excessive moisture. The ceiling paint can also suffer from bubbling, discoloration, or start to peel off.
Roofs can also be prone to water damage in the winter due to ice dams. Ice dams are formed when snow freezes over and thaws on the edges of the roof, also known as the eaves. Once the snow thaws, this water buildup can enter the home through small holes or cracks beneath the shingles.
Major leaks in your home are most likely found in the attic, so that should be the first place you should check to determine if there are any signs of leakage. You can use a flashlight to locate any deteriorated insulation or mold growth in the area which indicates that the roof should be replaced. Finding the source of leaks can be difficult, but you can look around skylights, vents, and chimneys, as they are the most common spots for leaks.
Roof is Past its Life Expectancy
Although proper maintenance allows roofs to last long, they cannot last forever. For example, if the shingles are past their life expectancy, the roof’s structural integrity might have weakened. Shingles are designed to lie flat on the roof, but if the shingles are curled up from the edges, cracked, or appear wavy, it can be a sign that the roof should be replaced. The granular coating on shingles offers them protection from the sun, and if that granular coating has worn off, the shingles may become brittle and require a replacement.
The growth of a combination of fungus and algae on the roof, known as lichen, can damage shingles, resulting in dark streaks across the roof. A sagging roof can be very dangerous. Moss growth on the roof adds weight, causing it to sag by retaining water. This can even lead to the roof collapsing if not replaced on time.
Storm Damage
Roofs can be vulnerable to storm damage, especially in areas with adverse weather conditions. If you live in a part of the country that experiences heavy hail storms during the summer, the shingles on your roof can be more prone to damage. These storms can also cause the flashing to shift out of place because loose and torn. Heavy winds can also cause the shingles to become loose or tear away. If your roof went through a heavy storm, it might have sustained irreparable damage, requiring it to be replaced.
