No one likes to think about their roof failing. After all, roof replacements are:
- Messy
- Expensive
- Stressful
But what if we told you that there is another option? That’s right. You don’t have to start from the ground up for a quality roof replacement. Instead, you should consider reroofing!
If you’ve never heard of the reroofing process, you aren’t alone. Luckily, we have all of the information that your need to help you make a decision that is right for you and your roof.
Signs That Your Roof Needs Professional Help
The average homeowner isn’t a roofing expert. Still, as a major part of your home, it is important that you are able to identify early signs of roof damage so that you can get the professional help that you need.
If you are wondering whether your roof can last another year or if it is time to make like Elsa and “let it go,” here are some signs you should look for.
1) Frequent Leaks
A roof leak is never a good sign. However, if you are noticing leaks spring up more frequently in your home, or if you keep getting a leak in the same spot, despite repairs, you are likely dealing with a roof with some serious structural damage. You may be in need of a complete roof replacement in order to address the problem areas.
2) Missing Shingles
When storms are raging and winds are blowing, it’s not unusual for a shingle or two to blow off of your roof. However, when you are regularly finding shingles in your front yard, you may want to consider replacing our existing asphalt shingle roof. Frequent shingle loss is a sign that your roof is no longer able to stand up to environmental challenges.
3) Granule Loss
All asphalt shingles will lose granules over time. However, when your shingles start shedding granules at a fast rate, it may be time to replace them. Excessive granule loss can cause your shingles to be brittle and break more easily. Additionally, it means that your roof has less protection from UV rays. Look for the black, gritty substance in your gutters in order to determine how frequently the granule loss is occurring.
4) Staining
Have you found yellow or brown stains forming on your ceilings and walls? This indicates that you have water damage, usually from your ceiling. Leaving this untreated can have serious consequences for the structure of your home, as well as creating a fire hazard when your home’s electrical wiring is exposed to water.
5) Mold and Mildew
Have you been forced to deal with a stuffy, wet smell in your house? This is likely due to mold and mildew growth. If the scent is coming from your attic, it likely means that moisture is entering your home through your roof and allowing mold growth to happen.
6) Moss Growth
Is your roof turning green? Moss and algae thrive in damp environments. This means that moss growth on your roof is a bad sign. Your shingles may not be diverting water away from your roof. If water is getting trapped in the lower layers of your roof, it can create the perfect environment for moss.
Reroofing vs. Roof Replacement: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to replacing your existing roof, you have two potential options: a full roof replacement and a reroofing process. Both options come with pros and cons that you should carefully consider with your roofing contractor. Here are some things to keep in mind.
Reroofing
Reroofing is a roofing solution that allows you to keep your existing shingles and roof. Your roofer will simply install a new layer of shingles on top of your old roof!
If this sounds like an unusual situation, you’re right. Many roofing companies don’t even offer re-roofing services due to the complications that can occur. Check out these pros and cons!
Pros ✅
- Cost – The most obvious appeal of reroofing is that it is significantly cheaper than a roof replacement. This makes it a much more accessible option for homeowners.
- Stops Leaks – Reroofing will stop any problems that you have when it comes to leaks and water damage.
- Speedy Solution – When you want your roof problems fixed, and you want them fixed now, reroofing can be a great option. It can be completed faster than a standard roof replacement.
Cons ❌
- Longevity – The fact of the matter is that the reroofing process simply will not last as long as a full roof replacement. In fact, you may pay more in the long run, as you will have to replace your shingles sooner rather than later.
- Has Specific Requirements – Not all roofs will be eligible for reroofing. Your existing roof deck and home structure must be sound enough to accommodate the new layer of shingles.
Roof Replacement
Most homeowners opt to have their entire roof replaced instead of reroofing. Check out our pros and cons to learn why!
Pros ✅
- Reliable – When you get a new roof installed, you know that you are getting a roofing solution that will last you for 15-20 years.
- Increased Resale Value – If you are planning to sell in the near future, a new roof will help to significantly increase your resale value.
Cons ❌
- Cost – It cannot be avoided. A roof replacement is a significant investment. You can expect to spend $10,000-$15,000 on a new asphalt shingle roof.
Get Professional Roofing Advice
When it comes to finding a roofing solution that keeps your home safe, it is always best to consult with a qualified professional. When you work with Johnson Restoration, that is exactly what you will get! Our experts can help you with both reroofing and roof replacement projects and make sure that your roof is ready to take on whatever comes its way. Contact us today to get all of your roofing project questions answered!
