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You've probably never thought about it, but your roof has to battle a lot of enemies: ultraviolet rays, rain, wind, snow and ice. But the good news is most new shingle roofs are designed to last about 20 years. Slate roofs and some types of tile and metal roofs can last even longer. The actual life span of your roof is determined by several factors, including environmental conditions, material quality, proper application and regular roof maintenance.
How do you know when you roof is in trouble? Look for these warning signs.
Outside:
- Shingles that are warped, blistered, missing or torn.
- Shingles covered in moss or algae, which hold moisture and encourage rot.
- Loose material or wear around chimneys, pipes and other penetrations.
- Overhanging tree branches that could gouge the roof in a strong wind.
- Excessive debris (leaves, dirt, ice, roofing granules) in the gutters or downspouts, which block drainage.
Inside:
- Ceiling spots or leaks.
- Cracked paint.
- Discolored plasterboard.
- Peeling wallpaper.
- Mold, mildew or rot in the walls, ceilings, insulation and electrical systems.
- A poorly ventilated attic that shows signs of moisture, which promotes the roof's decay. Sufficient attic ventilation can be achieved by installing larger or additional vents.
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