A roof can last several decades before you need to replace it, so breathe a sigh of relief that something that costs that much is made to last. However, as your roof starts getting up there in age, you may question if it’s time to get a new one. So, what are the signs you need a new roof in Chicago, IL, or the nearby region? Let our expert roofers at Canga Restoration explain.

8 Signs You Need a New Roof

1. Your Roof Is Past Its Life Expectancy

No matter how well you take care of your roof, there will come a time when it needs to be replaced. When you know a general time frame for how long it will last, you can save yourself money by not shelling out cash toward costly and frequent repairs. You can even save your home’s structure and interior from damage if the roof should happen to spring a leak and let water enter your home.

Each roofing type is different when it comes to its life expectancy. For instance, a tile, copper, or slate roof can last over 50 years.

If you have a wood shake roof, it lasts around 30 years, whereas a fiber-cement shingle roof will last about 25 years. Composition or asphalt roofs tend to last around 20 years.

If you are unaware of how old your roof is, you could figure it out by reaching out to the home builder or previous owner. Assess the condition of your roof for cracked or chipped tiles or curled shingles, which may signify your roof is reaching its life expectancy.

2. Granules in Your Gutters

Some granule loss is normal when you first have your roof installed, but it will stop not long after the installation. However, it will also happen over time.

Those granules are crushed stone and other similar materials that work as a protective coating on the shingles. Therefore, as they break down, they’re not as protected from the sun.

If you are noticing your shingles are losing more and more granules, it might be time to have a roof inspection because you may need a roof replacement soon. Besides seeing them in your gutters, you may also notice your shingles have bare spots where the granules come off.

3. Leaking Roof

A small roof leak is not always a warning sign you need a new roof. You may be able to have a roofing repair that corrects the problem, and you will not have another leak for some time to come. However, it can quickly escalate into a more serious problem. If the leak is larger, it could mean you need a new roof because a big portion of it is worn out.

The only way you will know if that leak is repairable as well as worth repairing is to have a roof inspection completed by a professional.

This issue does not always manifest as a leak you visibly see. In fact, it may start as a stain on a ceiling or a wall in your home.

4. Sunshine is Coming Through the Attic

If you have sunshine coming through the attic, you have a hole or crack in your attic that can let water in. That hole or crack may arise as your roof ages and is beginning to fail.

Fortunately, a roofing contractor can evaluate your roof, determine the severity of the underlying problem, and help you decide on the right solution for your situation, whether it be a repair or a new roof.

5. Sagging Roof

You should not notice any roof sagging because it should be level. If you see you have sagging, it means that part of its structure could be compromised or weakened. This problem could cause your roof to collapse, so a new roof may be needed in order to prevent this from occurring.

6. Plants or Fungi Are Growing

Plants like moss and fungi thrive in dark, damp places. Therefore, if you have a shaded part of your roof, it’s the ideal location for plants and fungi to grow. While they seem harmless, they could mean you have water damage to your roof. Plus, the moisture that they retain can damage your roof.

7. Damaged Shingles or Tiles

As you are searching for signs you need a new roof, it’s important to inspect the shingles or tiles for any visible issues.

Whenever you question your roof’s integrity, especially as it ages, check the shingles or tiles. Specifically, you should be looking for ones that are worn, loose, buckling, rotting, or cracked.

While you may only need to replace one or two shingles or tiles, if you are noticing you have a large number throughout different sections of your roof, it could signify you need to replace your roof because it’s aging and beginning to fail.

You should also think about if you have been losing more tiles or shingles lately or noticing more broken or damaged ones. If it’s happening frequently, you may need a new roof.

A roofing contractor will be able to tell for certain if a replacement is necessary or a repair will be adequate.

8. Neighbors Are Getting Their Roofs Done

You do not need to race out to keep up with the Joneses. However, homeowners who live in subdivisions, developments, or areas that grew at once will have roofs similar in structure. The roofs will wear at the same time.

As a result, if you are noticing your neighbors are getting their roofs done, it might be time to consider getting yours done.

What to Do When You Notice Signs You Need a New Roof

If you see signs you need a new roof, it is time to call the pros at Canga Restorations!

We are a family-owned-and-operated business that cares deeply about the reputation we have in the community. For this reason, we see every project we have taken on as an opportunity to prove ourselves and provide the highest level of work possible.

We see putting on a new roof or inspecting or repairing it as more than using our skills and knowledge. We are helping a person or family remain safe and comfortable, and that’s not something we can take lightly. Therefore, you know we will take our time to ensure we complete the job correctly. We’d also like to stress that we’re licensed, bonded, and insured, giving you confidence in our work.

Contact Canga Restoration for a quote for a new roof or an inspection today.