How do I know when my homes shingles need replaced in Columbus, Ohio?

Asphalt shingles are by far the most commonly used roofing material for pitched roofs. Asphalt shingles have a number of advantages over other types of roofing material including affordability, versatility and long life. Though shingles are a useful roofing material, they will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. It is important for home owners to know when shingles need to be replaced in order to avoid water damage from a failed roof.

Leaks

The most obvious sign that a shingle roof needs to be replaced is when the roof begins to leak. As shingles break down over time they can develop cracks that allow water to seep onto the roof deck. From the deck, the water can work its way into the living areas of the home. Small leaks can ruin finished ceilings, walls and floors, while large leaks can cause structural damage. Leaks of any size can cause dangerous mold to grow in the home. Leaks can be caused by minor damage that can be repaired, but in most cases a leaking roof will need replaced.

Warped Decking

Roof decking can warp for a number of reasons, but one common cause is that the roofing material is leaking. When a homeowner sees that his or her roof decking is warped, the roof needs to be inspected. In most cases, the roof will be inspected from the inside to look for wet spots. The roof will need repaired regardless of why the roof is warping as the warping roof will cause the shingles to become loose.

Missing Shingles

Though asphalt shingles are remarkably resilient, they will fail when subjected to extreme force or deteriorate over time. Wind storms and falling tree limbs can damage roofs and displace shingles. In many cases, storm damage can be fixed without replacing the entire roof. However, old shingles can begin to fall apart with age. Shingles need to be replaced when they become brittle and begin to break and fall from the roof.

Granule Piles

Asphalt shingles are covered with a layer of rough granules. These granules help to protect the waterproof layer of the shingles from damage due to rain, sleet, hail and snow as well as the ultraviolet light from the sun. Over time, these granules will begin to come loose and fall off of the shingles. When a homeowner sees large amounts of these granules piling up in gutters and collecting where downspouts empty to the ground, it is time to have the shingles inspected as they are likely to be nearing the end of their lifespan.

Roof Looks Worn

Though a roof looking old and worn is not a reason that it must be replaced, a worn looking roof is likely to be reaching the end of its service life. Shingles that are rounded on the edges, have black showing through the surface granules, are faded or otherwise looking worn will need to be replaced in the near future. Instead of waiting for old shingles to fail and leak, it is better to replace them while the roof structure is still sound.