How to Know If You Need a New Roof

Many people don’t give their shingles their due. Is it time to shop for professional builders to fix your ageing roof? The only way to know is to do a thorough visual inspection, says Martin Browne, a Kent builder who works for Libra Construction.

An inspection should be done periodically and after a violent storm.

Things to Focus on During the Roof Inspection

Roof shingles – Most homes and garages have asphalt varieties, but exceptions exist. Things to look for here are cracking, curling, cupping, and discolouration. Any missing ones should be replaced. Does the building have a metal roof? Look for corrosion; a clue would be unusual discolouration. Fungus, moss, and algae will exacerbate corrosion. Shingles will begin to crack and bow when they’ve about come to the end of their lifespan. Replace as needed. A slate roof? Any unusual flaking indicates a problem.

Flashing at the roof line, vents, and valleys – All these items should be appropriately maintained. Flashing refers to thin strips of a waterproof material that prevents water from passing into a structure from joints or as part of a weather-resistant system. In modern buildings, flashing reduces water penetration in areas such as chimneys, vents, walls, windows, and door openings. This helps make buildings more durable and reduces interior mould problems. Metal flashing materials can include lead, aluminium, copper, stainless steel, zinc alloy, and other materials.

Metal flashing is intended to go under shingles. Places to look for galvanized flashing are around the perimeter of the roof line, the roof surface and anything that extends out of it (chimney, stink-pipes, other vents, skylights, etc.) and in the valleys. Check flashing for dried, cracked roof cement at joints and for metal corrosion. These are all potential problem areas. Replace corroded flashing and apply fresh cement where needed—it is better to use too much than too little.

Structure – the structural elements to look at are the roof structure, framing (trusses or rafters), and sheathing. The tip-off for problems is generally a sagging condition. The ridge line should not sag. If sagging is present between rafters, the sheathing may be at fault.

Gutters and drainpipes – Give these a good look. The gutter guards should be clear and in good shape. Rainwater from the gutters and drain pipes should be routed away to prevent foundation repairs.

Perform an attic inspection—Viewing the interior of the attic is a great analysis tool. Things to look for: Daylight coming in, for one thing. That’s a potential leak. Discolouration on the sheathing or trusses can indicate where rainwater has invaded the home.

While in the attic, look closely at the ridge and soffit vents to ensure that nothing is impeding air flow. If there is undue humidity or mould present, these areas may be blocked.

Is It Re-Roofing Time?

The inspection results will answer that question. Proactive inspections and small repairs can help a roof live long. Replacing the odd shingle here and there and slapping on a bit of roof cement will do it.

Most roofs don’t last as long as they should because homeowners have an “out of sight, out of mind” attitude, which leads them to seek a premature roofing quote.

But if it’s finally time for a replacement, take your time and do your research when you select a roofing contractor. Look for a company that’s been around for a while and has references.