We do not suggest that just anybody grab a ladder and climb onto the roof — but we do suggest that a professional should. We offer free inspections and estimates, and when a roof has storm or weather damage we will help you work with your insurer to get it taken care of.
If you would like to start by looking around on your own, that is a great idea. As a rough guide, if around 40% or more of the roof is damaged, it probably needs replacing rather than repairing.
5 Things to Look For
1. Attic Damage
The attic is one of the first places to check. If there are problems with the roof, you may see daylight coming through the boards, or dark streaks and stains on the underside of the deck or the rafters.
2. Shingle Damage
Go outside and look at the roof. Shingles should lie flat. Buckling, cracking, curling or missing shingles mean repairs are likely. Shingles are also surfaced with granules; if you find a lot of them in your gutters or at the bottom of the downspouts, the shingles are wearing out.
3. Worn Flashing
Flashing seals the joints around chimneys, walls, vents and skylights. Like everything on a roof it wears out, and sealant cracks and pulls away. If you can see the flashing around your chimney and it looks lifted, rusted or patched, repairs are probably needed.
4. Moss, Moisture or Sagging
Moss on the roof usually means moisture is being held against the shingles. Any sagging, or water collecting on the roof, is a reason to call someone right away.
5. The Age of the Roof
Check your records for when the roof was installed and when it was last serviced. Most asphalt shingle roofs last somewhere around 15 to 30 years depending on the shingle, the ventilation and the weather they have been through — and in Central Ohio, the weather is rarely gentle. If your roof is in that range, have it inspected.
Next Steps
If you think you need repairs or a new roof, contact us or call (614) 708-0889 and we will come out for a free inspection and estimate. Considering metal instead of shingles? Read our comparison of metal roofs and asphalt shingles, or see our roof repair and roof replacement services.
Owens Corning also has a helpful piece on re-roofing versus repair.