A roof is one of the most crucial parts of a house or commercial facility. When it’s working properly, it shields the rest of your building from water damage and harsh weather conditions. However, over time, your roof will start showing signs of wear and tear.
Replacing your roof at the right time can save you from expensive home repairs. Unfortunately, your roof won’t give you a clear sign saying, “replace the old roof with a new one”. So, how do you know when it’s time for a new roof? It comes down to recognising the signs that indicate it’s time for a replacement.
Here are 4 signs that indicate it’s time to replace the roof in Australia –
Age of Roof
One major factor to keep in mind is how old your current roof is. Most asphalt shingle roofs need replacing every 15 to 20 years. If you have a different roofing material, the lifespan could vary. For instance, metal roofs are costlier but require little maintenance and can last up to 30 to 50 years. You should know when your roof was installed so you can estimate its expected lifespan. If the roof was layered over an existing one or has multiple layers and is older than 20 years, then your old roof may need a new one.
Water Damage
If you notice moisture stains, brown, yellow or greyish discolouration or paint peeling off on the walls or ceilings upstairs, it could mean your roof is damaged and leaking. Another sign is if you go up into the attic and see damp wooden beams or visible leaks – that is a clear indicator of roof issues. Stains on your ceiling are usually caused by water seeping through the roof’s outer layer resulting in an internal leak.
Water damage from a leaky roof can cause rotting of materials, mould growth and in severe cases, even risk of the roof caving in. You need to consult certified roofing professionals to get leaks fixed promptly and check whether your roof needs a replacement.
Curly or Buckled Shingles
When shingles start curling or buckling, it’s a sign they’re no longer properly attached and have probably sustained some damage already. That curved surface can catch strong winds, leading to more problems the next time a storm rolls in. Sometimes, a qualified roofer can replace just the damaged shingles, but the issue could also signal a larger underlying problem.
Similarly, if any of the roof’s supporting structures are cracked or missing pieces, that’s an immediate red flag. Proper support is crucial to ensure your roof is structurally sound and not at risk of caving in.
Moss, Mould or Fungi
Moss, mould, and fungi on your roof show that moisture is trapped, which can damage the roof over time. To remove moss from the shaded areas, use a stiff brush, but make sure to also fix any moisture problems. If moss is still present after brushing, call a roofing professional to inspect the roof.
Even with regular inspections, some damage might be more serious than it seems. If a roofing contractor finds major issues, replacing the entire roof might be more cost-effective than constant repairs.
Bottom Line
Tradecom Group is one of the top roofing companies in Australia. We’ve got a team of certified roofing contractors who specialise in offering all kinds of roofing jobs – repairs, replacing broken tiles, sealing leaks, installing gutter guards, fixing flashing issues and more. We offer affordable roofing services for homes, strata developments and commercial properties.
You can rest assured that every team member is security-checked, wears a full uniform and will show you proper photo ID when introducing themselves.
Visit our website and book a free consultation today! Our roofing contractors will closely inspect the condition of your current roof and suggest the best solution to fix the issues. Call us today!