When you need new roofing in Overland Park, KS, it’s vital that you schedule this work quickly, as roof damage only gets worse the longer it’s ignored! Cracks and holes in the roof can also lead to secondary damage inside the home, and even more costly repairs.
Unfortunately many homeowners put off needed new roofing in Overland Park, KS, simply because they don’t realize their home needs repairs or a new roof altogether. To ensure you’re keeping your house in tiptop shape and avoid otherwise unnecessary repair bills, check out 7 signs that it’s time to call a roofing contractor near you.
1. Look for Buckled or Wavy Shingled Roofing in Overland Park
Roofing shingles should lie flat against the decking under it. Damaged shingles tend to curl, buckle, or otherwise pull away from the roof structure.
If you notice any such shingles on your home’s roof, it’s time to call a roofing contractor near you! Those shingles typically need replacing and this should be scheduled before they outright split or fall away from the roof altogether.
2. Dark Spots Can Mean It’s Time for New Roofing in Overland Park, KS
Dark spots or discoloration along a roof can indicate worn or “bald” shingles, soft spots or sagging, and other such damage. A roof might also need cleaning, to remove damaging dirt, soot, air pollution residues, and other debris. Whatever the case, schedule a roof inspection if you spot noticeable stains or discoloration along a roof’s surface.
3. How Old Is the Home’s Roof?
A home’s roof has an expected lifespan, after which time the shingles will degrade, clay tiles get brittle and crack, and nails and other connectors might rust or pull away from the roof decking. Even high-quality roofing materials will need eventual replacing as they break down over the years!
Note, too, that extreme weather conditions including high winds and heavy rains put added wear and tear on a home’s roof. The more harsh weather to which a roof has been exposed, the more likely it is that the roof needs replacing! If you’re not sure the age of your home’s roof, schedule an inspection as a roofing contractor can then note its overall condition and how many years of life it might have left.
4. Check for Missing Shingles and Tiles
A few missing shingles or tiles after a strong storm don’t necessarily indicate that it’s time for a new roof; however, if shingles and tiles have fallen away due to age, excessive wear, or severe roof damage, others might follow suit! Rather than putting off needed roof repair and installation, schedule an inspection if you ever notice missing shingles and tiles, so a contractor can evaluate the roof’s overall condition.
5. Granules in the Gutters? It’s Time for New Roofing in Overland Park
As roofing shingles age, their protective granules tend to wear away so that they eventually end up in the home’s gutters or along the lawn near the house. Along with granules, you might also notice roofing nails and other connectors, bits of torn shingle edges, and other such debris.
Don’t simply clean the gutters or remove that debris from your lawn but have the roof inspected for needed shingle replacement. It’s vital you do this ASAP, as those granules help prevent standing water on the roof; once shingles start to shed those granules, your home is at greater risk for costly water damage!
6. Spiked Utility Costs Can Be the Result of Damaged, Old Roofing
A home’s roof plays a substantial role in its overall insulation. When a roof suffers leaks or when shingles and tiles are worn or missing, this allows your heating and cooling to escape, while also letting in outside heat, cold, humidity, and drafts.
If you notice a sudden increase in utility costs and especially if your home suddenly seems hot and stuffy during summer months and cold and drafty in winter, this can indicate it’s time for new roofing. Have a contractor inspect the roof for needed repairs and to evaluate the shingles and tiles, so you can schedule those fixes or plan for a new roof installation.
7. Water Stains Inside the Home Indicate Needed Roofing
Roof leaks and other damage allow water into the home, which can then result in water stains along the ceilings and interior walls. Plumbing leaks can also cause water stains; however, it’s not recommended that you ignore either cause!
Failing to address plumbing leaks can mean damaged framing, mold, and other such costly fixes around the home. The same is true for ignoring needed roof repairs or new roof installation! Water dripping into the home through roof leaks and cracks can risk wood rot, damaged fiberglass insulation, damaged electrical connections, and other such needed repairs. Trapped moisture also risks mold growth in the home.
Rather than simply cleaning away those water stains, it’s vital that homeowners find their cause and then address needed fixes. As with all other secondary damage caused by poor-quality roofing, that water damage will also only get worse over time and the longer it’s ignored!
How to Keep a Home’s Roof in Good Repair
Now that you know some common signs of roof damage, you might note some quick tips for keeping your home’s roof in good repair:
- Schedule regular inspections, at least every 2-3 years and after particularly heavy storms have moved through the area.
- Keep the roof clean, as sand, silt, air pollution residues, and other debris can eat away at shingles and tiles, leading to premature damage.
- It’s also vital to keep your home’s gutter clean, as roof eaves absorb standing water, leading to rot and other such damage.
- Avoiding walking on the roof, to prevent scraping away at shingle granules or pulling shingles and tiles out of place.
- Trim back tree branches that might fall onto the roof or that can scrape shingles and tiles.
An experienced contractor can also offer personalized tips for your home, so you avoid otherwise unnecessary repairs and know that your roofing in Overland Park, KS, is in good repair and lasts as long as possible!
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