Is It Time for a New Roof? Key Signs to Watch For and the Best Time to Plan Your Replacement

Understanding when to replace your roof is crucial for making sure that your home does not undergo any damage that could potentially cost you even more in the long run. Many homeowners are not sure how to check if their roof might be in need of a replacement, or when the right time is to start planning their roof replacement. This is exactly why we are going to guide you through everything you need to know in this blog so that you can make informed decisions regarding your home and roof.

The Importance of Replacing Your Roof on Time

The roof of your home is more than just a protective shield from the outdoor elements, it is a critical part to your home’s overall health and aesthetic appeal. By delaying your roof replacement, you are risking greater problems, including structural damage and costly repairs. We know that replacing your roof might be a big investment; however, waiting longer will only end up costing you more in the future. That is exactly why it is so important to take the steps towards roof replacement as soon as you see the key signs we will discuss in this blog post.

What is the Usual Lifespan of a Roof?

The lifespan of your roof depends on several different factors. These factors include material, climate, and maintenance. One of the most common types of materials used on roofs are asphalt shingles, which typically last between 20-30 years. However, metal, tile, and slate roofs have much longer lifespans. This is exactly why knowing the age of your roof is very important when you decide to assess its’ condition and whether it is time to replace it.

As roofs age, they become more susceptible to weather damage, and wear and tear, which is why we always recommend regular inspections of your roof. These inspections can be done by a professional or if you are aware of what to look for, you as the homeowner, can do them as well.

Signs That Your Roof Needs Replacing

Age of the Roof

The age of your roof will be your biggest tell tale sign if it is time to start thinking about replacing it. If your roof is approaching or has surpassed its lifespan, you might want to start thinking about looking into replacing it. Make sure that you thorough research as to what kind of materials were used on your roof and when exactly it was installed.

Missing, Cracked, or Curling Shingles

If you decide to do an inspection on your roof by yourself and see that there are missing, cracked, or curling shingles, this should tell you that your shingles are starting to fail. They are no longer viable to do their job and this is another sign that it is time to start thinking about replacing your roof.

Granules in the Gutters

Granules are found on your shingles and it is what helps to protect them from the UV rays of the sun. If you see that there is a significant amount of granules starting to accumulate in your gutters, this is a sign that your shingles have undergone significant wear and they will need to be replaced sooner rather than later.

Frequent Leaks

If you notice that there is frequent leaking from your roof, and despite simple repairs, it continues to leak, this will suggest that there is a widespread deterioration and time to start thinking about replacing your roof before the leaks cause major damage and you are left to deal with greater repair costs down the road.

Best Time of Year for a Roof Replacement

The best time of year to replace your roof will largely depend on the climate. In Illinois, due to the extreme weather conditions during the winter and summer, the best time to plan your roof replacement is during the spring or fall. During these times of year, there are perfect conditions for a roof replacement - mild temperatures and minimal precipitation. However, you should also keep in mind that during off-season, you might be able to get a better deal on your roof replacement.

If you have done the inspection of your roof and have decided that maybe it is time to think about replacing your roof, the experts at Naperville Roofing and Construction are here to help! We have installed roofs for over 25 years and offer free estimates and inspections! Contact us today and get our professionals opinion!