Your roof is one of the more significant components of your home, so it's far from something you should ignore, even if most people are inclined to.
Contrary to what you may think, your roof isn't eternal; it will need a replacement at some point. Here are some of the significant signs that you need a new roof:
Warning signs that you need a roof replacement
Your roof is more than 20 years old
If your roof is over 20 years old, you will likely need a new one. This age range can vary based on your roof type and where you live, so be sure to ask your contractor.
The roof age alone isn't enough proof that you need to change it, but if you're experiencing other issues related to poor roofing, it's time to get a new one.
Your shingles are curling or buckling
If you notice that your roof's shingles are curling or buckling, this is a sure sign that you need a new roof. These problems occur for various reasons, including age. Whatever the cause, it's a sign that your roof won't function optimally and will need a replacement.
You have leaks in your house
This is one of the more obvious signs, especially if you have a leak that won't go away or keeps coming back. Fluids leaking into your house can cause damage to property, so it's essential to address the source as soon as possible.
First, check your gutters to see if they're clear. If they are, but the leaks persist, it's probably time to replace your roof.
Shingle pieces in the yard
Shingles don't always fall off in full strips. For roofs in bad condition, it's common to see small chunks of shingles in the yard, even if you may not exactly know where they're coming from.
If you notice small pieces of shingles in your yard after a few windstorms, it's probably a sign that your roof needs professional attention.
Sagging roof
Like leaks, a sagging roof is one of the most obvious signs that you need a new installation. Sagging occurs when there is a structural issue below the shingles, such as severe water damage or a broken rafter.
In such cases, you need an expert to assess the extent of the damage, which will likely require a total roof replacement.
Insurance and roof replacement
Most homeowners insurance policies cover roof replacement if the damage stems from natural disasters or sudden accidental events.
However, your policy may not provide coverage if your roof gradually deteriorates due to wear and tear or neglect. If your roof is over 20 years old, you'll most likely have limited coverage, if any.
If you plan to replace your roof, ensure to contact your insurance agent and inform them of the type of material used. Depending on the situation, they may update your policy or alter the coverage from actual cash value to replacement cost.
Replacement cost covers what you need to replace the roof, while actual cash value is based on the roof's value at the time it was replaced. This naturally takes into consideration depreciations affected by any existing damage.
Get insurance protection for your roof
A roof replacement is a costly venture, and your policy may not provide enough coverage for instances of damage to the structure over time. To ensure approval of your claim, keep records of repairs, before-and-after photos, and reports from inspections. Also, notify your insurance company promptly when damage occurs.
Contact us for professional advice on how to update your policy to cover instances of roof damage comprehensively.