Your roof is a vital part of your home but it’s often one that we take for granted. It takes the brunt of bad weather and its height means it’s easy to miss early signs of damage. But knowing what to look out for can help you assess when your roof requires repairs or replacement. When the time comes, why not get in touch with ELT Home Improvements? From guttering to replacing cracked tiles, we’re here to carry out expert roof repairs in the Cambridge area.
Let’s look at how long a new roof should last and signs that it may need replacing.
How long should a roof last?
As a general rule of thumb, most roofs last around 30 years. However, there are many different styles and materials available and these will impact your roof’s life expectancy. Metal roofs, for example, tend to be very sturdy and may last 50 years. Certain premium metals like stainless steel can last for over 100 years!
Slate, clay, and concrete roofs also stand the test of time, often surviving 50 to 100 years.
Asphalt roofing, on the other hand, may only have a life expectancy of 25 years depending on the environment. Other factors, including ventilation, roof colour (which affects heat absorption), and installation quality can also have an impact on how often you need to replace your roof.
Regular maintenance from a roofing specialist will help your roof stay standing strong for longer.
Signs your roof needs replacing
The following signs can give you a good indication of when to replace your roof.
Cracked or missing tiles
Tile damage doesn’t necessarily mean you need to replace your roof. However, if you find that you’re replacing more and more in a short space of time, it can be more practical and economic to get a new roof. If you’re unsure which is the best solution, feel free to contact us for advice.
Light coming through the roof
Can you see light coming in through your roof boards? It’s important to get a professional roofer to take a look. Patching may be a temporary fix but this is likely a sign that your roof is getting old and needs replacing.
Water damage
While water marks in your home could be due to damp, there’s a chance it could be caused by a leaking roof. Sometimes, a roof leaks because of missing tiles, but it could also be a sign of poor installation.
Moss and mould build-up
Moss and mould growing on your roof can damage roof tiles, pushing them apart and creating gaps that water can leak through. Regular roof checks can help you spot moss and mould problems early on.
A sagging flat roof
If you notice your flat roof is starting to sag or buckle, it may need replacing soon. Leaving it may lead to collapse, which could be dangerous for your home’s structure.
Gutter debris
Lots of debris building up in your guttering could be a sign that your roof tiles or shingles are deteriorating. Sometimes, only a small part of your roof may be affected, in which case you can get a roofer to make repairs. However, if debris is falling across much of your roof, you might need to replace it.
Roof repairs in Cambridge
Your roof is a fundamental part of your home, and although it’s a long-lasting structure, it’s good to know when to repair or replace it.
If you’re looking for an experienced roofer to carry out roof repairs in the Cambridge area, get in touch with the team at ELT Home Improvements. Whether you need chimney repair services or a full roof replacement, no job is too big or too small!
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