Metal roofs are long-lasting, but they do not last forever. For this reason, it is important to learn about the indicators of a deteriorated steel roof. After all, knowing the signs will help you determine when it is time to replace a metal roof. The five biggest warning signs you should look for include:
Age of Your Roof
New metal roofs can last up to 50 years. With regular roof repairs, you can keep the aluminum or steel panels on your house top for decades. But, eventually, even the most durable sheets will need to be replaced. If your metal roofing insulation or panels are too old, it’s time to replace your metal roof.
Visible Rust & Deterioration of Metal Panels
Rust is the reddish brown coating that forms on exposed metal when moisture mixes with the air’s oxygen. For metal roofs, the formation of rust is a clear indicator that it is time to replace your roof. Although the panels are covered with a protective coating to reduce the formation of rust, it only lasts so long. Weather and other factors can cause erosion of the protective paint.
Aluminum and metal panels are highly durable, but they are not completely impenetrable. Natural and unnatural disasters like wind, storms, snow, and human interference can cause deterioration of the panels. If your metal roof damage is too severe, deterioration of the panels will start to cause problems to the interior and exterior of your building.
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Loose Metal Roof Panels
Age, weather, and other factors can cause metal panels to loosen over time. Once this happens, the panels often cannot be resealed onto the roof.
Loose panels cannot protect your building from water or other harmful agents. If too many panels are loosening, it is time to look at metal roof replacement options.
Interior Damage from Leaks
If you start noticing damage to the interior of your business, it is time to replace the roof. Metal roof panels are superior protectors and insulators, but if they are no longer protecting your property from external elements, it will quickly show inside your building.
Water can get in and damage the walls and ceiling, causing mould and other foundation issues.
Changes to Your Home’s Internal Temperature
If you notice a sudden change to the interior temperature and cannot find a valid reason for it, it could be because you need a metal roof replacement. Metal roofs are great insulators that keep your building warm in the winter and cool in the summer. If there is a sudden change in temperature, it could indicate you need to install a new roof.
Your utility bill can also indicate a sudden change in temperature. If you notice your bill is higher or lower than usual, you might need a new metal roof installation.
Check the Attic
One of the first areas to check to determine when to replace your roof, check the attic. When you’re up there, look for signs of dark spots, sagging sheathing, stains, holes, mold, or mildew.
These issues are likely a cause of water damage and may be signs of a leaky roof. While up under the eaves, also look for whether daylight is coming through the top of the house. This is another warning sign you need a new roof.
Roof Turns 25
If you do not know when the last time your roof was replaced, we advise homeowners to check their records to find out that important date. The lifespan of typical asphalt shingle systems is 20 to 25 years. Therefore, it’s time to start planning for a new roof if that timeframe has passed or is approaching.
Your roof may not show any signs of concerns, but it’s better to be prepared and inspect ahead of time. It’s also important to note that shingles installed on top of an existing layer of shingles may only last 20 years. This kind of application is known to have a shorter lifespan.
Your Neighbours are Replacing their Roof
Many neighbourhoods have homes that were built around the same time in phases. If you start to notice that some neighbours are replacing their roofs, this could be a sign to look into when to replace your roof shingles.
Many builders use the same materials for roofs so if the surrounding homes are close in age, they will age and deteriorate around the same time.
Light Peaking Through the Roof
If there are holes or cracks in your roof, rain and light can get in.
To check if this is a problem, goto the top floor when the sun sets, turn off your lights, and see if you can spot any light coming through the roof.
You Have Missing Shingles
If you see that some roof shingles are missing, it might be another warning sign that you need a new roof. This happens when the glue of the shingles become weak, and a strong wind can easily blow them away because they’re no longer stuck properly.
But don’t panic if it’s just one or two shingles missing; it could be due to a poor installation. A quick fix can get your roof back in good shape!
Shingles Curling Up or Down
A roof might be telling you it’s due for replacement if you see curled shingles, either lifting up or bending downward. You can spot this curling or cupping when the edges of the shingles start to turn up, separating from the layers beneath them.
Shingles changing shape isn’t a good sign, and it can happen because of issues like improper installation, old age, inadequate ventilation, or extreme weather.
Finding Traces of Asphalt in the Gutter
In the surface of asphalt shingles, there are tiny granules or specks. These granules act as a shield, protecting the shingles from the sun. It’s perfectly normal for a few granules to come loose and fall off, especially with new roofs.
However, it can become an issue when a lot of granules start gathering in the gutters. When the shingles lose this protective layer of granules, they can be exposed to the sun, which can cause them to deteriorate, warp, or bend.
Plants Growing
If you’re questioning when to replace shingles, signs of moss, mold, and fungi are red flags that your roof may be in trouble. These unwanted plants begin to grow as a result of trapped moisture and this problem can ruin a roof.
You are most likely to find moss, mold, and fungi growing in shaded corners. To get rid of the plants growing on your roof, use a stiff brush to carefully address any underlying issues.
Shingles are Cracking
It can be challenging to assess the extent of damage to your shingles from the ground. What might seem like cracks could actually be your shingles tearing due to repeated cycles of expansion and contraction caused by temperature changes.
The sun heats the roof, causing the shingles to expand, and they contract as temperatures cool down. This constant shifting weakens the shingles over time, and when they tear, it creates a vulnerable spot for potential structural damage and leaks.
Shingles in your Yard
Shingles don’t always come off in complete strips as a roof ages and becomes less sturdy. It’s common to find small pieces of shingles scattered in your yard or around the exterior of your house. However, it can be challenging to pinpoint exactly where these broken shingles are coming from.
If you’re seeing shingles of any size ending up in your yard after a strong windstorm or gradually over time, it’s a good idea to contact a professional for a roof inspection and possible shingle replacement.
Sagging Roof
When there’s a structural problem like a broken rafter or extensive water damage beneath your shingles, it can lead to sagging in your roof. A sagging roof is a clear warning sign that you need a new roof, and resolving this issue requires the skills of an experienced contractor.
To address a sagging roof properly, professionals must remove the shingles and the plywood sheathing beneath it.
Metal roofs are highly popular, especially on commercial properties. They are long lasting, durable, and require minimal maintenance. But even the highest quality metal roof will ultimately need to be replaced. To prevent damage to the interior of your building, a metal roof contractor can advise you on all your roofing needs.