Your home is a place where you and your loved ones should feel safe and secure, and having a roof over your head is an essential part of that. If your roof is starting to show signs of residential roof damage and you fear it is no longer up for the task, you’re going to want to get someone on the job as quickly as possible to avert any possibility of further damage to your home. Hiring the right Austin roofing contractor to conduct a roof replacement will put your home back on track and leave you with the comfort and security you deserve.
Related: Residential Roofing in Central Texas
If you’re unsure whether or not it’s time to have your roof replaced, look for these five telltale signs.
- Age
Most roofs in the Austin area are shingle roofs. These are designed to last roughly 20 years, but eventually, give in to weather damage from heavy rains and the intense heat of central Texas Summers. If your roof is nearing its expiration date, it’s a great time to get in touch with your local Austin roofing contractor to schedule a consultation and see what kind of roof replacement services they have to offer.
2. Missing or damaged roof materials
Looking at your roof from the outside, you may notice that some of the materials are either out of place or gone altogether. Damage to shingle roofs can take the form of curled shingles; an effect that takes place when old shingles succumb to intense heat and begin to warp. On tile or slate roofs, you may notice that the material begins to crack and break over time. It’s not the end of the world, but it is time to get it looked at by an expert.
3. Sags in the roof
If you’re noticing that your roof is noticeably lower in places where it didn’t use to be, that’s a big problem. Roof sagging can be caused by age, weather damage, and compromised rafters, among other factors. When a roof begins to sag, it starts to apply excess weight to the rest of the structure, leading to more potential damages and costs. Don’t wait to call your Austin roofing contractor if you notice the roof sagging.
4. Sediment Buildup in Gutters
If you examine your gutters and notice a buildup of dark, synthetic granules, this is a sign that your shingles are no longer living their best lives. When inspecting a brand-new shingle, you will notice the rough, grainy surface that comprises the topside of the shingle. This material is essential to the shingle’s function; it helps to reflect sunlight, keeping the material from succumbing to weather damage. Over time, these little guys wear out and heavy Central Texas rains take care of the rest.
5. Moss and algae growth
The humid climate in Austin makes it easy for a broad spectrum of vegetation to take root. While that’s mostly a good thing, when it comes to your roof, it can be a sign that you have a moisture problem. This can negatively impact the structural integrity of your whole home if left unchecked. If you notice that your roof is unintentionally becoming a garden, put a stop to it by getting an Austin roofing company on the job.