The roof is an essential part of your property, protecting you from the elements all year round. Your roof is extremely durable but will develop issues over the years that might eventually require you to replace them. Make sure that you can spot the signs and get your roof seen to by a professional before any of these issues can worsen. Note that if you want to check your roof for any of these problems, the safest way is to take a pair of binoculars and have a look from the ground. If you’re still unsure, always call a professional rather than going up a ladder yourself.
1) Damaged or missing tiles
No matter if was due to the weather, old age, or damage, if tiles have been knocked loose from your roof you will, at the very least need to have them replaced. A missing tile is a hole in your roof that the elements can get into. If moisture gets in it can cause water damage in the beams and insulation in your attic creating a hazardous environment and undermining the structural integrity of the whole roof. If you’re losing tiles frequently, it could be a sign of a major underlying problem that you will need resolved by a professional.
2)Sagging roof
This is an issue that affects both flat and pitch roofs and can indicate a serious structural problem. A sag in your roof is usually a sign of damage affecting the underlying elements of your roof that is causing it to bow. This is especially pronounced on a flat roof as dips in the material can let water pool whenever it rains, worsening the problem. On a pitch roof this will take the form of a ‘saddleback’ dip visible from ground level outside your property. Sagging can be caused by sub-par materials, heavy water damage, or poor installation. It indicates that your roof might be structurally compromised and should be seen to immediately by a professional to make sure your property is safe.
3)Visible moss or mould
If you’re seeing moss or mould spring up on your rooftop frequently, that could be a sign that your roof needs replacing. Any time you spot these issues, you should have them cleaned by a professional. If moss is allowed to establish it will grow between the shingles of your roof and force them apart, creating gaps in your roof. Furthermore, moss holds a lot of moisture, which is can then introduce into the space beneath your roof and create humidity and water damage in your attic. If this problem is reoccurring it could be a sign there is water in your roofing system which will take significant work to rectify and may require a full replacement.
4)Age
In the UK, a well-installed roof can last for decades. If you know your roof is over 25 years old, you should look into having it surveyed and prepare for the possibility of replacement. With age brings the greater likelihood of damage and the breakdown of certain materials due to natural wear and tear. The caulk that holds flashing on can dry and rot, tiles degrade, and beams warp. Additionally, if your current roof was installed as a layer of shingles over an existing roof, and is over 25 years old, then you should look into having it replaced.
5)Holes in your roof
If you haven’t experienced any damage recently, but still have holes in your roofing system, it could be a sign that it is degrading and will need replacement. Head up into the attic, if you can see light then your roof has begun to degrade. Cracks and holes provide an ideal way in for water and moisture which will cause havoc in an enclosed area like an attic and further erode your roof’s structural integrity.
If you’re experiencing these issues with your roof, it might be time to have it replaced. To be certain you’re making the right decision, get in touch with Groom & Co and we’ll provide a free, no-obligation quote for your project. We’re a reputable contractor providing expert roofing services to homeowners just like you. Contact Groom & Co by calling 07931 440 692 or emailing henry@groomncoroofing.co.uk and get your free survey and quote in just 24 hours.
