There are several large investments that a homeowner does throughout their life, a roof replacement being one of them.
A sturdy roof keeps you and your family safe from the elements and other dangers, which is why it’s vital to make sure your roof is in optimal condition. To do so, preventative maintenance must be performed whenever a minor issue occurs.
However, there comes a time when the small fixes are no longer enough to fix your roof, whether it’s been damaged from the weather or old age.
Of course, roof replacement isn’t the only option when there are damages to your roof, especially if that roof is relatively new and has not reached the end of its lifespan. There are a few signs to look out for to know whether you need a roof repair or a roof replacement.
Signs That It’s Time For A Roof Replacement
The decision of replacing a roof is a big one, so before committing to such an investment, it’s best to know if the roof needs to be replaced or just repaired.
There are several warning signs indicate your roof is wearing out and not performing as well as it used to.
Check the slopes of the roof that get direct sunlight and observe the shingles there. If you notice that they’re buckling, curling or warping, then they’re past their life expectancy. If only a few shingles have been damaged, then you only need to replace the few singles.
If most of the shingles are warped or missing, then the entire roof must be replaced. You should also check the area where the roofs’ different slopes meet, which is responsible for directing the water into the gutters. If shingles are missing there, then the house is susceptible to a leak.
An important place to check for damages on your roof is from the attic. While you’re up there, check to see if any daylight is coming through the roof boards, if you do, then that’s a problem.
Also make sure to look out for any signs of moisture, which indicate that you have a leaky roof. Check to see if you can find any water stains on the roof boards or moisture in the insulation.
Signs of vegetation growing on your roof don’t necessarily mean that the roof needs to be replaced. However, the plant life must be cleaned as it can cause damage to the roofing materials and harbour pests.
Best Roofing Materials and Their Life Expectancy
There are a variety of roofing materials to choose from, each with its own unique look.
Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing material, as they’re easy to install, economical to produce, and the least expensive out of all the other options.
Shingles can come in different styles and colours, matching the aesthetic of the house. The popular liking of the material is also due to its long life expectancy, which averages around 30 years.
Wood roofing is an option for people looking for a more distinctive look. This type of roofing material comes in both the form of shingles and shakes.
Since wood shakes are hand-split rather than machine cut, it gives a more rustic aesthetic to the home. For a more trim and crisp appearance, wood shingles are the way to go.
However, keep in mind that wood roofing is less practical than asphalt shingles and requires annual upkeep to last its expected lifespan of 30 years.
Clay tiles are undoubtedly a beautiful choice of roofing material, giving a house character that can’t be found anywhere else. With its bold colours and intricate shape, it’s sure to catch the eyes of everyone who passes by.
Besides their charm, clay-tiled roofs are extremely durable, easily lasting 50 years with little maintenance required.
There is no material more capable of protecting a house from the outdoor elements than a metal roof. Other than being energy-efficient and durable, metal roofs last decades and are available in a variety of colours and styles to match your taste.
Roof Replacement Services in Ottawa
Is your roof showing signs of needing repairs or replacement?
No matter the state your roof is in, you can count on us to get it back to its pristine condition.
Whether you’re looking to completely replace your roof or repair some damages, our expert roofers have years of experience under their belt that will ensure you’re getting the best results possible.
We’ve made it our mission to meet the highest standards and exceed our clients’ expectations with our roof repair and roof replacement services.
Reach out to us today to learn more about our roof replacement and repair services and get a free, no-obligation quote!