Here are the top 3 things you’ll want to ask yourself:

What problem is my roof facing?

If you’ve found shingles laying around in your yard or there’s a water spot on your ceiling, this is the first indication that you need to hire a professional roofing company. In most cases, these damages can be repaired without needing a full replacement when found early on. You should also consider repairing your roof if you’re experiencing any of the following:

- Shrinkage
- Leaks around the chimney
- Splitting
- Exposed nails
- Air gun nailing mistakes
- Fascia replacement
- Punctures and holes
- Cracking and blistering
- Minor granule loss
- Tree damage
- Weather damage
- Ventilation issues

However, replacing an entire roof is highly advisable when you’ve found any sign of mold. In most cases, if your roof is rotting or soaked with water, it’s cause for a complete replacement. Also, if you discover shingle granules on your roof or piling up in the gutters, this is a sign that the roof’s condition is deteriorating and needs maximum protection. Excessive shingle granule loss usually means a whole replacement job is necessary to protect your home from harsh weather.

How old is my roof?

This is a crucial question to ask yourself because all roofs have a unique lifespan depending on the material used and the quality of the roofing job. Even if your roof seems in great shape at first glance, that may not be the story when you take a closer look. A roof that is 25 to 30 years old may require a complete replacement. Your reputable roofer will be able to do an extensive inspection to give you the approximate time you have left before needing a replacement. Here are some signs of an old roof if you can’t find the paperwork to determine the exact age:

- Curled or buckling shingles
- Missing shingles
- Moss growth on roof
- Shingles are bald
- Granules in the gutter
- Roof sagging
- Blistering shingles

How long do I plan on staying in my home?

Some individuals don’t think it’s necessary to replace a roof if it’s not their forever home. However, when you go to sell your house, the condition of your roof can be an important factor. If the roof’s shingles are curled and there’s moss living on the roof, it can be extremely difficult to sell your home. Installing a new roof may be your best option to boost your curb appeal and sell your home.

It’s also important to remember that the sun will lighten shingles over time. When you’re choosing between replacing or repairing a roof because of missing shingles, keep in mind that it’s hard to match a shingle that needs to be replaced. It’s nearly impossible to match the colors, so if it’s more than a few shingles, you should consider a full replacement, especially if you are planning on selling your home.

If you ARE in your forever home, it’s crucial to have annual inspections and maintenance to ensure you get the full life out of your roof.

While this guide maps out the key points to consider when repairing or replacing your roof, it is extremely important to hire a reputable roofing company to give a proper inspection. Make sure you do your research AND take advice from your trustworthy roofer on what the safest route is to protect your property for years to come. Our team at Roofing for HOPE is more than happy to come on your property for a free roofing inspection. You can put your trust in us.