Less Obvious Signs That Your Roof Needs to Be Replaced

If you have a roof that has been on your home for 15 years or more, then you may need to start looking at a replacement. And, while there are some obvious signs of shingle damage that you should be looking for, there are a number of less obvious indications that you should be investing in roof replacement services sooner than later. Keep reading to learn about a few of them.

Light in the Attic

One significant sign that your roof is in need of a replacement cannot be seen from outside the home but inside your attic instead. Go into your attic with a flashlight and look up toward the roof. If you see light shining from different areas, then this is a sign that there are small openings or holes in the roof that are exposed to the outdoors. 

The presence of light beaming through your roof is also an indication that you may have a leak issue. Specifically, if holes are big enough that you can see light, then water can also seep through the spaces. Turn your flashlight on and look for wet spots or dark areas where water damage has developed. If insulation is in the way, then look for areas where it is drooping or coming away from the roof. This is another sign of water damage.

When you are investigating your roof, you also want to note any light coming through around the roof's eaves. This is a sign that vents are present and allowing for airflow both in and out of the attic to reduce humidity and moisture concerns.

Damaged Flashing

Most roofing structures will have flashing installed around chimneys, plumbing vents, and other constructions. Flashing is applied with the same type of tar and cement materials that your shingles are adhered with. And, you can actually gauge the wear and tear of the adhesive materials by looking at how well the flashing is holding up. In other words, if the flashing is coming loose and pulling away from the roof, then the shingles will likely start to do the same shortly. Look for areas where the flashing is noticeably pulled up or where the cement has started to come loose. 

Keep in mind that if the flashing has started to pull away, then there is a good chance that water has worked its way underneath the metal pieces. You may want to pull up the flashing gently to investigate the shingles and the decking underneath for signs of water damage. For more information, contact a roofing contractor.