Roof Prices Make it Best to Repair
Although roofing prices might seem excessive enough to scare you away from hiring a professional to examine your damaged roof, it definitely is a must for any homeowner. If you have ever stood on one of the typical Florida roofs and notice any of the following problems, it may be time to repair or even replace your roof.
Types of Roofs in Florida
Due to the windy weather and hot sun that Florida is known for, roofs throughout the state are constantly being battered by various weather conditions. Consequently, there are a few types of typical roofing materials used within Florida that have different pros and cons when it comes to repair and potential replacement.
- Composition shingles: shingles are affordable roofing material, typically made from fiberglass or asphalt. Due to their durability and availability in many colors, composition shingles are used in large parts of the country. In Florida, however, these shingles scar and bend easily in hot weather and can blow off in rough winds.
- Clay tiles: on par with shingles popularity wise, clay tiles are incredibly durable and do not require a lot of maintenance. They are resistant to rot and insects, and won’t burn in the Florida heat. However, clay tiles are much heaver than shingles and thus can require extra roofing support.
When Should You Repair Your Roof?
Although repairing your roof may not seem like a difficult task, knowing when to simply repair it and when to replace it can be, which is why you should always call a professional to do any sort of maintenance work. However, if you do see any of the following signs, the professional you call will most probably recommend you repair your roof.
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Missing shingles
Because of the weather in Florida shingles, and sometimes even clay tiles, can just blow off of roofs. If you aren’t worried about the differences in color between old and new shingles or tiles, it’s easy to just put some new ones in.
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You can see sunlight
If you go up into your attic and can see a little patch of sunlight you probably will have a leak when winter comes and snow, wind and rain get in. if it’s just one isolated spot, it should be easy to patch up without having to do a full-blown roof replacement.
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Shingles are covered in moss
While this is more of an aesthetic problem than anything else, it might be useful to call a professional to see why your roof is covered in moss. Definitely don’t try and scrape it off or power wash it away though, as you may chip the granules off your roof. Granules essentially protect shingles and tiles from heat, so unknowingly chipping them off will create a much bigger problem than a little moss.
When Should You Replace Your Roof?
Replacing a roof is a big job that often requires residents to leave their home for day or two in order for the process to be completed. The following are some of the typical signs that might indicate your roof needs to be replaced, however it is important to remember that all roofs are made of different materials and thus require different maintenance.
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Your roof is 25-30 years old
Even if your roof looks perfectly fine from the ground, it’s best to have a professional come and inspect it if it is older than 25 years.
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Curling or clawing shingles
Shingles can either start to ‘cup’, where the edges curl upwards, or ‘claw’, where the edges remain flat and the middle starts to come up. Both are caused by weathering (often heat), and are a sign of potential problems, especially leaks.
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The roof is sagging
If you see a depression or droop anywhere in your roof, call a processional immediately. You may not necessarily be in danger, but a sagging roof is easier to deal with when it is small and isolated.
At the end of the day, if you notice any irregularities with your roof it is best to call a professional as soon as possible.
