Roof Assessment 101

One of the most common inquiries homeowners will call in about is whether or not it is time to replace their roof. At Moser Roofing, we are more than happy to come by and answer that question, but in most cases, it does not take an expert to identify a worn out shingle. In this post, we will take you three a brief guide on how to evaluate your roof.

1. Check for Roof Leaks

As basic as this may sound, this is where you should start out. Check the inside of your house to see if there is any staining on the ceilings or the walls. If you are able, take a peak into your attic space with a flashlight and see if there is any water spots - especially around visible nails. Just because you have one leak does not mean your entire roof needs replaced. MANY leaks can be easily repaired. But if you have leaking in multiple locations that have been occurring for any length of time, chances are it might be time to start thinking about a replacement.

Water Stains in Attic

Water Stains On Ceiling

2. Visually Inspect Your Shingles

The next step can usually be done from the ground. Take a walk around your house and look at your shingles. If you are comfortable, put up a ladder and carefully walk around.

Things to Look For:

Degranulation

Granules are your first defense of weather protection for your asphalts shingle. They keep the asphalt protected against exposure to both rain and sun. Once your granules start coming off, the asphalt can deteriorate rapidly.

Degranulation will present as un-uniform black spots on your shingles. This is the exposed asphalt making its debut.

Degranulation in Asphalt Architectural Composition Shingles

Exposed Fiber Glass

Modern Asphalt Shingles are each made with a fiberglass matt that is then covered in asphalt and finally layered with granules. A sure fire indicator that your roof is on its last leg is when you see fiber glass showing on your roof.

Fiber glass will present as reflective white spots on your roof. If your roof seems unusually reflective when the sun shines, it just might be fiberglass. If this is the case, your roof is likely at the end of its life and should be replaced as soon as possible.

Exposed Fiber Glass On Asphalt Shingles

Delamination

Architectural Style shingles are made with two pieces of shingles glued together to make one shingle. Over time, or through installation error, the adhesive becomes unable to hold the weight of both pieces, and the shingles will start coming apart.

It should be noted that delamination may occur for a variety of reasons including a manufacturing defect or improper nailing during installation. In any case, if you see this on your roof, it is time to take action.

Delaminated Architectural Shingles

3. Verify Roof Age

How old is your roof? Whether or not you identify signs of roof failure, this information should be taken into account. The average home in the Willamette Valley has what used to be called a 30 Year Roof. This designation is no longer used. Why? Because they do not last that long. At least not around here. You can expect 20-25 years out of a 30 year shingle.

Why is this important?

It is important because if your roof is failing, but it is only 10 years old, something is not right. It might be because of neglect/lack of maintenance, but it also might mean the shingles are defective. If the latter is the case, it is in your best interest to pursue a warranty claim.

If your 30 year roof is NOT failing yet, but it is 27 years old, you should start planning on replacement. This is the place you want to be. If you wait until roof failure, you very well may be paying more because of dry rot costs.

4. Call An Expert

   There are things that the average home owner is not equipped to accurately evaluate, nor should they attempt to as they it may cause personal injury or damage to the roof. Whether you call us or someone else, you should verify your findings with someone in the industry

   
   

Conclusion

As with any system on your home, it is important to have your eyes open. This guide is not meant to be conclusive as there are other factors of inspection that are best left to a professional.

We believe that knowledge empowers you to make the best decision for the things you are responsible for, and that no home owner should turn a blind eye to their roof. Take a look outside and educate yourself on the condition of your roof.

Give us a call! We are more than happy to walk you through a ground level roof inspection, or to swing by and make a thorough evolution. Our inspections and cost estimates are free of charge, and can help you plan for the future.

Note: Moser Roofing takes no responsibility for injuries or accidents that occur from a homeowner attempting to assess their roof. Entering your attic space or roof top should be done with great care and caution and only if you are equipped and comfortable with the task. Please contact a professional to perform an evaluation if you do not feel confident in your ability in this area.