Asphalt roofs in the Minnesota environment last for about 20-25 years – sometimes a bit more, sometimes a bit less. One thing to do is ask to see documentation and review home improvement records for times the roof has been replaced.

However, if the asphalt roof is nearing the end of its life, there are steps to take to see if it’s truly ready for a replacement.

Signs It’s Time for a Roof Replacement

There are a few obvious signs that can indicate it is time to replace a roof. It’s recommended to be proactive and regularly look for early signs, so repair costs, risks of injury, and property damage can be minimized. Proper upkeep of a home helps ensure it stays in top-notch condition to maximize resale value and ensure inhabitants are protected. Let’s explore a few of the most common signs of roof damage below:

• Water damage: Excess moisture can be identified through moisture marks and brown, yellow, or gray stains. Peeling paint on walls and ceilings can also be an indication of a damaged, leaking roof.
• Lifespan: It’s vital to consider how old the existing roof is as it varies depending on the type of material used. Knowing when the roof was installed will help in determining the estimated lifespan.
• Sagging or drooping: If a roof begins to sag or droop, it’s a strong indication of trapped moisture. Any excess moisture will rot away boards under the roof and alter structural integrity over time.
• Moss, mold, and fungi: Any occurrences of moss, mold, and fungi also indicate trapped moisture. This occurs most often on the north-facing portion of a roof, usually with a lot of tree canopy cover.
• Curling or buckling shingles: When shingles begin to curl or buckle, it’s likely that they’re no longer attached correctly and have sustained damage. Getting any broken shingles repaired immediately is highly recommended to avoid further damage. Missing shingles or granules: High winds during a storm or day-to-day can cause shingles to lift or fly off completely. Usually, one or two shingles can easily be replaced depending on the location and condition of the surrounding shingles.
• Missing flashing, gutter guards, or fascia: At times, the supporting structure of a roof can become cracked or components are missing. Any of these occurrences need immediate attention to uphold the roof’s structural integrity and avoid collapse.

Roof Inspection Tips

If a roof is nearing the end of its life cycle and isn’t obviously damaged, there are a few steps to make a more thorough inspection, such as:

1. Look for noticeable patches of damaged shingles. Any shingles on a roof that have shed granules and have begun to bald likely need attention. This is an indication of a roof at the end of its life cycle. Cracked, chipped shingles that are curled up and look like potato chips are another sure sign the roof is ready to replace.
2. Check the gutters. It’s important to check the inside of the gutters and at the end of gutter downspouts. Look for buildup of the sediment and granules that have been stripped from the asphalt shingle.
3. Flashing around the roof is a weak point to consider. Flashing seals the seams around shingles that meet chimneys or skylights. If the flashing bares cracks, breaks, or it looks that the seal has been otherwise compromised, this may cause leaks, and is another sign that there is a need for replacement or at the very least, a repair.
4. Check the interior of the roof. Go into the attic with a good flashlight and check all points looking for streaks, stains, or, in very extreme cases, cracks where light shines through. These, too, are signs of water getting under your roof, damaging the substructure.

If unsure, seeking guidance from an experienced exterior contractor is also a great decision as these individuals are trained in identifying early signs of roof damage.

Contact a Reliable Roofing Expert at AM Burney Exteriors Today!

It’s important to note that any of these problems in small amounts don’t necessitate a full roof replacement. If the roof is still young and the problem areas sparse, repairs are all that may be needed.

If unsure, we suggest calling a professional but are aware that if you do not yet own the home, many professionals may charge a consultation fee, but then waive the fee if they are hired to replace the roof. Contact AM Burney Exteriors today to speak with one of our roofing experts.