damaged-roofThe prospect of replacing a roof can be scary. The roof, after all, is your home’s biggest line of defense against the elements. And living in Florida means our roofs are definitely put to the test time and time again. Keeping regular tabs on your roof’s health is a vital part of making sure your home is safe for you and your family.

Keep an eye out for these 5 warning signs that could be telling you it’s time to replace your roof:

Weathered flashing – Flashing around vents, skylights, and chimneys plays an important role in keeping moisture out of your home. If it ages to the point that it’s letting moisture in, it should be addressed immediately.

Curling shingles – Your shingles will usually let you know when something’s amiss. If the shingles on your roof are curling up or losing granules (which could be found in your gutters), you’ll want a licensed roofing company to inspect them and make a formal diagnosis.

Missing shingles – When shingles are falling off completely, you should take action immediately. Check to see if the shingle tabs are intact.

Damp or Dark Spots in your attic– A quick trip up into your attic can be very telling. Check to see if there is any visible damage. Can you see any dark spots, water spots, or damp areas? If so this may mean your roof is compromised. Be sure to check at the bottom of the eaves and in the valleys. Damp or wet insulation can be a key indicator there has been a leak.

Roof is over its average age limit – Even well taken care of, every roof has a lifespan. For an asphalt shingle roof, the life expectancy is (15-20 years in Florida).

Shingle granules in the gutters– Excessive granule loss can lead to water intrusion. Granules serve two primary purposes: to add aesthetic appeal and more importantly protect the structural part of a shingle, the fiberglass MAT. Check the gutters to see if there is an abundance of granules. This may be a strong indication its time for a new roof.

If you notice your roof matching the description of just one of these warning signs, you may not need an entirely new roof. The important thing to do is keep tabs on the warning signs and be sure to check the ceilings for cracked paint, water spots, or any discoloration. Always seek a professional roofing technician when a situation arises. To learn more about replacing a roof in Orlando, give Batterbee Roofing a call at 352-504-4441 or fill out or contact form online.