5 Signs it's Time to Replace or Repair Your Roof

A home or business's roof is one of those vital elements that doesn't get as much attention as it deserves. Due to its proximity to everyday life, it's easy for a home or business owner to overlook its condition until things reach a crisis level. Below are five signs that should never be ignored because they signal that the roof either needs to be repaired or replaced. 
1. Granules in the Gutters
Checking the gutters regularly can provide clues about the health of a structure's roof. If there are shingle granules littering the gutters, chances are that the roof needs to be replaced soon. This is because shingles tend to break down and lose increasing amounts of granules as they age. 
2. Check the Shingles
The days after a storm might be a local time to do so but checking the roof's shingles should be part of any regular maintenance routine for a home or business owner. In addition to making sure that all the shingles are still intact, it's a good idea to check for those that are discolored. Shingles that are darker in color or that are inconsistently colored usually mean that their granules have begun to wear away. 
3. The Paint Suffers
Because this sign is not actually on the roof itself, many home and business owners might not immediately connect its cause to a roofing issue. If the paint near the roofline is peeling, bubbling or staining, it can be a sign that the roof is leaking. This deterioration can also result in staining and seepage into the interior walls of the structure as well. This kind of issue can kill your curb appeal but, more importantly, it's a sign of a bigger problem that should be dealt with ASAP. A leaking roof is never a good thing, and the longer a homeowner takes to address the issue, the greater the potential for damage inside the home.
4. Look in the Attic
Puddles of water and other signs of moisture in the attic mean that the roof is leaking somewhere. Even if it isn't raining, a home or property owner can determine if the roof potentially has a leak in the attic area. Being able to see inside an attic without having to use a light is a solid indication that the roof is allowing light to enter it. 
5. Check the Roof's Age
Like other building systems, a roof typically includes a warranty. Most of these are good for around 20 years. If the roof hasn't been replaced in 20 or more years, it's a good idea for a home or building owner to do so as soon as possible. Doing so helps ensure that any issues related to a leaking roof can be avoided. 

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