When you own a home, you want to do everything you can to make that home last. One of the most important, yet commonly overlooked, areas of your home is the roof. Your roof is essential to ventilating your home, keeping pests out, and protecting the interior from harsh weather conditions all year round. Replacing your roof is something that needs done from time to time, but how do you know when it’s time? 

How Long Does A Roof Last?

A traditional roof made of asphalt shingles typically lasts between 20 and 30 years. When you purchase a home, it’s always best to ask the previous owner how old the roof is so you know when to expect a replacement. A roof that’s 20 years or older is likely due for a replacement or will be in the near future. If you’re unsure of the roofs age, you can use some other methods to determine if it’s time to replace.

Inspecting Your Shingles

One of the easiest ways to determine if you need a new roof is to look at the current state of your shingles. Shingles that are curling at the ends or buckling are a sign it’s time to replace. If you have missing shingles, especially along the valleys of your roof, your home needs a roof replacement. The valleys of your roof are the places where snow and water run down into the gutter, so missing shingles in those spots leaves you very susceptible to a leak.

Is Light Coming Through The Roof Boards?

Your attic is very helpful when determining the quality of your current roof. In the attic, look at the ceiling, which is actually the underside of your roof, and see if there is any light shining through. If light can be seen through roof boards, you’re at a high risk for leaks and weak spots in your roof. You should also feel the insulation in your attic to see if there’s any moisture present.

Shingle Granules

When a roof is due to be replaced, small pieces may start to flake off of the shingles. These are known as shingle granules. Anytime you’re cleaning out your gutter system, be on the lookout for shingle granules. If you spot shingle granules, perform the other checks we mentioned above to help determine the overall health of your roof.

Contact Us Today

If you’re in need of a roof replacement for your New Jersey home, our team at Amiano & Son is ready to assist! Reach out to our team today by giving us a call at (609) 268-5923 or by filling out our team’s online contact form! We look forward to hearing from you and assisting with your team’s roof replacement needs!