If you're like many homeowners, you probably don't spend much time thinking about your roof—until there's a problem. At Braswell Construction Group in Georgia, we encourage you not to wait until your roof fails to think about a replacement. A proactive approach gives you time to budget and avoid expensive structural repairs at the same time.
1. Your roof is past its life expectancy.
Every type of roofing material has a different life expectancy. From our over 20 years of experience working in Georgia, this is what you can expect for the lifespan of your roof in this super hot and humid environment.
15-20 years for asphalt shingles
20-25 years for fiber cement
15-20 years for cedar shake
50 years for tile, slate, synthetic slate, synthetic shake and copper
If your roof has exceeded its average age, or if it's been through extreme weather conditions, it might be time for a replacement.
2. You see signs of leaks or water damage.
Leaks are often the first warning sign that your roof is reaching the end of its lifetime. Head up into the attic, and look for streaks and discolorations on the ceiling or walls. If the holes in the roof are large enough, you might even be able to see light coming through from outside.
3. Your shingles are damaged or missing.
If your roof has shingles, climb up to get a closer look. Examine the shingles for signs of excess wear: curled edges, buckling, bent corners, and cracks. You might also notice that the granulated finish has worn away in certain areas, leaving the shingles smooth. This type of damage often means that the roof is due for a replacement. The same goes for missing or torn shingles.
4. There are dark spots on your roof.
When you look at your roof, can you see dark spots in multiple places? Get out the ladder and carefully check the spots—it could be mold or moss. This type of growth can happen when a damaged roof allows moisture buildup. It's a common problem here in Georgia because of the humidity. At Braswell Construction Group, we always recommend an inspection if you see mold. Left unchecked, trapped moisture can damage the structure of your roof. In the worst-case scenario, it can weaken the beams and cause a collapse.
5. Your energy bills are too high.
Your roof plays a big part in keeping hot or cold air inside your home. When it's damaged, that air escapes, and your HVAC system must work harder to maintain the set temperature. If your energy bills are unusually high, it could be a sign that it's time for a new roof.
With regular roof inspections, you can spot small problems before they balloon into expensive structural issues. If your roof is displaying any of these warning signs, a professional roof inspection can provide information and peace of mind. Contact us at Braswell Construction Group to schedule an inspection today; for your convenience, we have branches in Covington, Greensboro, Atlanta, and Stone Mountain, Georgia.