Roofing contractors recommend keeping a roofing file where you can keep important details such as your roof’s installation date as well as its roof repair and maintenance records. A roofing file also helps keep track of your roof’s lifespan, which for asphalt shingles—the most popular roofing material in the country—is about 20 years. As your roof approaches the end of its lifespan, you might want to start planning a roof replacement.
Of course, factors such as extreme weather events and installation errors can shorten your roof’s lifespan, which is why it’s important that homeowners have a basic understanding of the warning signs of an aging roof.
Warning signs you need to keep an eye out for include:
Bald Patches on Your Asphalt Roof
Granules are embedded in asphalt shingles to protect them from ultraviolet rays. It’s normal for shingles to lose a few granules over the course of their lifespan. However, as the shingles age, the adhesion of the granules weakens, causing an increasing number of granules to fall off. And as granule loss becomes more extensive, bald patches may start to appear on your roof.
Cracks on Shingles
Without these granules, your roof is left vulnerable to UV damage. Prolonged exposure to UV rays may cause cracks to form on the surface of your shingles.
Blisters
Blisters can form on the surface of the shingle if moisture becomes trapped within its layers. While they’re not an immediate cause for concern, shingles with blisters should be replaced as soon as possible. That’s because these blisters will eventually pop and create openings for water to infiltrate your roof. And if you’re not sure if your home needs a roof replacement or not, consulting with a professional roofing contractor would be helpful.
Looking for experienced roofers near you?
Roof Recovery, a family-owned company with more than 50 years of combined experience, offers a wide range of professional roofing services, including roof repair and installation. To get a free estimate, call us at (916) 675-3848 or fill out this form.
