Rooftops are your home's first line of defense against bad weather and the outdoor elements. Rooftops don't last forever, though. They need maintenance, repairs, and eventual replacement work done by an experienced residential roofing contractor. According to Realty Times, a well-maintained roof made from quality materials lasts between 20 and 30 years. Certain roof types, such as shake-style shingle roofs, can last about 50 years. Here are five signs that might indicate your home needs roof maintenance or replacement.
 

1. Water Dripping

If your ceiling drips water when it's raining, the water is going through your roof. In our experience, properly placed shingles and a sturdy substructure should stop any water penetration. Replacing the roof will stop the water from entering your home through the roof and protect it from the elements.

2. Roofline Sagging

Our experts indicate that a roofline should be straight and sharp with the shingles properly placed. As roofing materials age and suffer from the effects of weathering, the support structure weakens and can start to sag. If your roof's lines are more curved than straight, a residential roofing contractor can inspect it and determine if it needs to be repaired or replaced.

3. Shingles Falling

Roofing shingles and other roof coverings should be in good condition and properly secured. Windstorms and falling branches can damage shingles and cause them to blow or fall off of your roof. If your roof is missing some of its shingles, the support structure is exposed to the elements and suffers from the effects of weathering.

4. Mold or Mildew Growing

When the rooftop lets moisture get through, it can trigger the growth of mold or mildew in your attic and walls. Mold and mildew can aggravate respiratory health problems and endanger your family's health. A new roof can stop moisture from turning your attic and walls into an incubator for mold or mildew.

5. Water Staining

You can spot water intrusion through the roof by checking the attic for missing insulation and water stains. Insulation that gets wet will deteriorate rapidly and fall from the roof. You also might see water stains on the insulation. Those are clear signs that water is entering your home through the roof and you need to repair or replace it.

Have any questions? Call Ameristar Roofing & Restoration to learn more about our residential roofing contractor services and schedule a roof inspection that will tell you if you need to replace it. We look forward to hearing from you!