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December 1, 2009

Always check the simplest solutions first 

Just because your roof has some water damage, doesn't mean you need a brand new roof.  If your roof was installed properly and is less than 15 to 20 years old, often it can be repaired rather than replaced. 

Replacing the roof

If you find out you do have to go ahead and replace the whole roof, keep weather and other issues specific to your locality in mind when choosing materials.

If you live close to a lot of dry brush and trees, wood and asphalt shingles aren't really fire resistant.  Slate, tile and metal are more expensive materials, but they are a worthwhile investment because of the extra protection they offer against fire.

If snow loads are an issue where you live, you should consider a durable and lightweight standing-seam metal roof.  They can typically cast off the snow before it becomes  a problem. 

Before you decide on slate or tile, know that these are very heavy materials.  Some house framing just isn't strong enough to support the extra weight of this kind of roofing.

An ounce of prevention...

Start protecting your home by using some observation skills. If you find problems, it doesn't always mean you need a new roof. Many repairs can be made before you need a whole new roof.

If you do need a new roof, know that this isn't a "do it yourself" type of job. It's hard work -- especially if you have to take off the old roof -- and can be very dangerous. (Roofs slope and are up high)

Having a roof over your head

This is one of life's essentials. Your roof is what keeps you and your family safe from the sun and snow, lightning and rain. 

Take it from the top

The best place to begin is inside your house -- grab a flashlight and make a trip to the attic.

What's the roof made of?

Determining when you need a new roof also depends on roofing material as well as the part of the country in which you live.

• Cedar: A cedar roof needs repair or replacement when it splits and fall apart in dry climates. In wet climates, it will get mossy. 20 years is about as long as a cedar roof lasts.
  

   

• Tile: "Look for broken or cracked tiles, but don't walk on the roof to do so or the tiles will break. Tile roofs can last up to 100 years, but individual tiles can break. They can be replaced, but only by a specialist."

   

• Concrete: should never need replacing

If you have a roof with wooden shakes, you should also watch out for damage from termites, carpenter ants and/or other wood-boring pests.

10 things to look for:

1) Places where the roof deck is sagging

2) Signs of water damage or leaking

3) Dark spots and trails

4) Outside light showing through the roof. 

5) Visually inspect your roof for cracked, torn, bald or missing shingles.

6) Scan the roof for loose material or wear around chimneys, vents, pipes or other penetrations.

7) Watch out for an excessive amount of shingle granules (they look like large grains of sand) in the gutters -- this is a sign of advanced wear.

8) Check for signs of moisture, rot or mold. Note that wet spots may not be directly under your faulty shingle; water can travel down to its lowest spot before it drips. Mold, fungi and bacteria can grow quickly -- within 24 to 48 hours of a water-related problem.

9) Examine the drainage, and make sure gutters and downspouts are securely attached. Also ensure all drains are open and allow water to exit, and all gutters and downspouts are free of debris.

10) Check that all bath, kitchen and dryer vents go entirely outside of your home, not just into the attic space.


Know that once your roof is in tip-top shape, it will stay that way for years to come.