Learn the Signs That It’s Time to Schedule a Nebraska Roof Replacement
Your roof won’t last forever, and it’s important to know when a roof replacement may be necessary. This is especially true here in Nebraska, where a roof replacement may be crucial to protecting the rest of your Omaha home from inclement weather, severe storms, and Mother Nature in general.
As the foremost roof replacement experts here in Omaha, Nebraska, our team at Anchor Roofing has put together a list of five telltale signs to watch for. If you notice any of these signs around your home, it’s time to schedule a roof inspection immediately to determine whether a roof replacement is warranted.
Major Storm Damage
We’re no strangers to storm-related roof replacements here on the Great Plains. Roofs in Omaha and the entire state of Nebraska are battered with a variety of potentially damaging weather, including high winds and large hail.
If you notice clear signs of damage, a roof repair may not be enough, and a replacement may be warranted. Signs that your roof has been badly damaged by storms may depend on the type of roof you have:
- Asphalt shingles: visible dents and dark spots, cracked or missing shingles, or shingles flapping in the breeze. You may also notice excess granules in your gutters or near your roof line.
- Wood shake: missing materials or pieces of wood in your yard
- Metal: loose panels or fasteners, or major dents that go beyond cosmetic damage
Roof Leaks
When your roof begins leaking, it’s likely overdue for a roof replacement. Leaks don’t happen overnight. Typically, they’re a result of damage or neglect built up over a long period of time—months or even years.
By the time you notice a leak indoors, water has already fully penetrated your roof, including underlying sections like your underlayment and supporting structures. This means it’s crucial to schedule an inspection and replacement immediately before other areas of your home become damaged.
Soaring Energy Bills
Not all signs of major roofing problems are visual. In some cases, evidence may show up in other ways. If your energy bills have been rising with no outside explanation (such as uncommonly hot or cold weather), your roof could very well be to blame.
This is because your roof plays a vital role in regulating the temperature of your home. A healthy roof provides a layer of insulation while also being well-ventilated, allowing air to flow as needed. As your roof ages, its temperature regulating performance will suffer, and your wallet may notice.
Odors or Signs of Moisture in Your Attic
Speaking of attic ventilation, your attic is another excellent place to look for signs of a needed roof replacement. Signs of roofing issues may include mold, mildew, and water stains, but there may be non-visual cues as well. For instance, you may smell rotting wood and mildew before spotting it.
In addition, while it’s typically expected that your attic will be warmer, poor ventilation could also indicate that it’s time for a roof replacement. If your attic is uncharacteristically warm, it’s a good idea to schedule an inspection to determine whether your attic ventilation system is failing.
It’s Reached the End of Its Expected Lifespan
Roofs won’t always present telltale signs of replacement. However, as your roof ages, a replacement may become necessary anyway. All roofs have an expected lifespan, and beyond this point repairs and maintenance become less and less effective.
The exact number of years this takes depends on the material your roof was made from and how much maintenance has been completed throughout its lifespan. For example, if you have an asphalt shingle roof that was installed 20–25 years ago, a roof replacement is quickly approaching.
Seek a Professional Opinion from Anchor Roofing
While ailing roofs often present signs that you can identify as a homeowner, there are many other, subtle signs that may indicate a roof replacement is necessary. As leading roof replacement experts here in Nebraska, the Anchor Roofing team has the experience and keen eye to determine the best course of action for your roof.
Our expert Omaha team will fully inspect your roofing system inside and out to determine whether a replacement or repair will be the most cost-effective decision for you and your family. Book your free inspection today!