How Do I Know I Need a New Roof?

The roof is one of the most durable structures in your house, but not even that can stop it from needing replacement. Over time, wear and tear can take its toll on the structural integrity of your roof. Not to mention that storms and other accidental damages can render your roofing obsolete. This blog post considers signs your home most likely needs a new roof.

The ceiling has water marks or is saturated/sagging

If your ceiling is showing signs of moisture, you might have a roofing problem. In time, the shingles may lose granules, and an impact from a branch or heavy storms can cause a puncture, and this creates an avenue for water entry. Insulation in the attic can hold a surprising amount of water, and after it is completely saturated will work its way through the drywall or ceiling lid. Complete roof replacement becomes inevitable.

The roof leaks during heavy downpours

If your home experiences regular water damage, it might be time to replace the roof. You should never have leaking issues during rainstorms because of curling shingles or missing nails. If there are no apparent signs that a tree limb fell onto your roof, you need to call a roofing company to inspect the roof closely for leaks. If you find water leaking into your house, it’s time to start shopping for a new roof that can handle even the heaviest downpours. When available, we strive to repair as needed to prevent premature replacement. 

The interior smells moldy

If there are signs of mildew or mold inside your home, then it might be due to an old leak in your roof. If your home smells musty, water is likely collecting somewhere in the attic and causing further damage to wood beams or rafters. You might have a mold problem if you notice peeling paint on ceilings or walls. All these are sure signs you should contact a roof replacement specialist.

The exterior of your house looks worn out

There are several tell-tale signs that you need a new roof on the outside. First, if your gutters are damaged or missing in certain areas, it’s time to replace them. They might be due to having a faulty roof. It is also time to replace your exterior siding or shutters if they show wear and tear.

Light passes through the roofing boards

If it’s possible for light to shine through your roofing boards, you need another roof. In time, the wear and tear can cause some asphalt shingles or plywood to warp and can back out the existing fasteners from heat or moisture exposure.

Rotting roof beams or rafters

A storm-damaged roof can cause rotting wood beams and rafters inside your house. When boards become exposed to moisture, they begin to deteriorate due to fungi growth on the surface. If you notice any signs of mold in your attic or walls, you need new shingles that don’t let water pass through them.

Wild animals have taken over the attic

If wild animals live on your roof, it might be time to replace the boards. A squirrel or raccoon infestation can easily tear through wood beams that are already weakened by wear and tear over time. If evaluated and only ventilation components are damaged, we can replace them with the proper material to prevent this from reoccurring.

Nails are coming loose during storms

If the nails on your roof start popping off when there is a storm or strong winds, you need new roof shingles. If the nails are popping off during a storm, it’s time to start thinking about getting a new roof. Over time, water damage can cause wood boards and shingles to become warped in shape or otherwise compromised.

Rotting roof beams or rafters

A storm-damaged roof can cause rotting wood beams and rafters inside your house. When boards become exposed to moisture, they begin to deteriorate due to fungi growth on the surface. If you notice any signs of mold in your attic or walls, you need new shingles that don’t let water pass through them.

Wild animals have taken over the attic

If wild animals live on your roof, it might be time to replace the boards. A squirrel or raccoon infestation can easily tear through wood beams that are already weakened by wear and tear over time.

Chimney Flashing Is Damaged

Chimney flashing is a metal sheet that seals the top of your chimney to prevent water from entering it. If you notice any signs of corrosion around your chimney, it’s time for new roofing. This can be caused by cracks in the mortar between bricks or when nails come loose due to old age and moisture damage.

How long will my roof last?

A typical roof should last about 25 years. However, if you’ve noticed cracks or warping over time, new shingles might be needed. If your exterior walls show signs of cracking and peeling paint, it could also be due to an old leaky roof that has let water damage warp wooden beams and exterior siding.

Need a new roof?

If you feel your old roof has run its course, the best option is to get it replaced. At Executive Roof Services, we offer both commercial and residential roofing in Washougal. Our technicians have enough experience to handle all scales of projects. Just give us a call, and our expert roofing contractors will come for a comprehensive inspection!

Here are the related services we offer:

• Commercial roofing services
• Residential roofing
• Emergency roof repairs
• Full-on roof replacement
• Roof installation service
• Asphalt roofs

Visit our FAQ page for more information about our services!