Signs You May Need a Roof Replacement in Austin
If you’re wondering whether you need a roof replacement for your Austin home, you’re in the right place. While you’ll likely need a professional roofer to come out and take a look to make the final determination, you might be able to get a head start on organizing that roof replacement if you know what to look for.
Sometimes, however, a roof that looks a little old is actually fine, though that does depend on a lot of factors such as when the roof was installed, the type of tile atop the roof and what kind of weather the roof sees. But if you need a roof replacement in Austin and you neglect to address it, you could be risking bigger problems down the line, including damage to your home itself.
Cracked or Damaged Shingles
By far the number one common sign that a roof needs replacement or repair is cracked or damaged shingles. Shingles form your roof’s number one protection from the elements, and if you have damaged or missing shingles your roof will be unable to shield itself against the rigors of being outside 24/7. That’s because rain and other precipitation has a way of working its way into the smallest of cracks and crevices, bringing water inside your roof and into the structure underneath. Unless it’s just superficial damage, a significant number of damaged or missing shingles may mean roof replacement for your Austin home.
Your Roof Is Old
While many people think that a typical roof will last forever, most roofs are designed to only last a couple decades, and storms and other harsh weather can reduce that time significantly. Poor ventilation and other bad design decisions can also shorten the life of your roof, but even with the best designed roof there will come a time when roof replacement is the only course of action. Furthermore, it’s often the case that an old, decaying roof is actually a safety concern, as damage may be so severe that collapse is a real issue. The longer you keep that decaying roof, the more you’re risking significant damage or it all coming down, and that’s not something anyone wants to deal with.
Your Neighbors Are Replacing Their Roofs
Since most roofs in a given neighborhood are made similarly with the same roofing tiles, it’s often the case that many of the roofs will need to be replaced around the same time. So if you’re seeing a lot of roof replacement in your Austin neighborhood, yours might be due for replacement, as well. Another reason is that the weather that your roof and others in the area sees is essentially the same, meaning that if a storm rips through and some of your neighbors have to repair or place their roofs, you may have to, too.
Dark Streaks or Moss
Another tell-tale sign that your roof may need to be replaced is the appearance of dark streaks or mossy areas on your roof. The dark streaks are caused by airborne algae, which can settle on your roofing tiles, potentially damaging them if left alone for long enough. During wetter times of the year, it’s also possible for moss to develop, especially in overhangs and other areas that may not get their full share of sun. Not only is moss a cosmetic issue, but it can also damage your tiles if not addressed. You may not need a roof replacement in Austin, but your roof may benefit from some maintenance or repair.
