by Liz Roberts

Created on: December 19, 2008   Last Updated: December 24, 2008

How do you know if you need a new roof?

Well, when the upstairs bedrooms feel chillier than the freezer and there's a large water stain on your powder room ceiling. Seriously there are certain signs to know when you need a renovation. Some are subtle. Some are glaring. The trick is to spot them and determine what's the right course of action to take.

Most homeowners are clueless when it comes to deciphering their dwellings. Most of the time they wait until it's too late and that's when trouble starts. Some roofs last anywhere from fifteen to twenty years if the installation was well done. Sometimes a new roof is needed after only ten years due to inferior products and shoddy workmanship.How to determine if you need a new roof? Take a closer look at the shingles. If they look raggedy or worn, then it's time for a new roof. The same applies for them dropping or flying off in a windstorm. The color will also change, and will fade thanks to massive sun exposure.

Another way of telling if your home need a new roof is when it begins to suffer. There may be rivulets coming down the walls during a heavy rainstorm. There may be signs of water damage, usually light brown to dark brown stains on the ceiling. If these are left as is it could lead to paint and ultimately support damage to your home. Another sign that you may need a new roof is the large number of drafts especially upstairs. Bedrooms that are normally warm and cozy will be chilly and even have a certain damp air about them. It may even be impossible to sleep up there. Your home's attic will also show signs that you need a new roof. There may be evidence of small animals (such as squirrels and wrens) coming in through any holes. Your home's attic insulation may be soggy thanks to severe leakage. The support beams may feel icy or clammy depending upon the season and the weather.

Now the next problem is finding a relatively honest contractor. Sometimes a roof may just need another layer. This is usually done when there is only one layer of roofing. Your home will then just need a less expensive new roof. However if there is a second layer, then both will have to be torn off and a brand new one will be installed. This is an expensive process that is more labor intensive plus it requires a skip or a garbage bin. You'll encounter some unscrupulous home remodeling sales reps that will tell you that you need a brand new roof plus a tear off. Get a few estimates along with a few thorough assessments before oyu decide to install a new roof.

If you've noticed any or all of these problems, then your home needs a new roof. Call your contractor for an estimate and have the problem solved right away. You'll not only feel more comfortable but also more relieved knowing your home is fixed.

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