In terms of home renovations, roof replacement is the number one remodeling and expensive one on the list. That house-top will eventually have to be replaced. When considering various remodeling activities to improve a home’s curb appeal such as fixing windows and painting, a homeowner should be aware that all of these wonderful projects to beautify their home will be damaged if they are not protected by a good roofing structure.

Deciding when it is time to replace the roof is a difficult decision to make. How is a homeowner supposed to know when the time has come to ‘bite the bullet’ so to speak and look at the replacement of the top of a house before deterioration causes damage to other potential beautification projects? Following are a few warning signs that could indicate that this important structure may need replacing:

• Lifespan - Every type of roofing material has its own estimated lifespan. The serviceable life is usually affected by factors such as the climate, ventilation, the installation process and the maintenance program. Determining the lifespan of the material used on the house-top is important because when material has exceeded its estimated lifespan, it might be an early sign that it is time to consider replacement.

• Missing Shingles and Granulation - Shingle granules are vital in protecting the house from intense solar heat. Under normal circumstances, there are loose granules present immediately after installation. With aging shingles, if there is increased granulation to the point where some of the shingles may actually be missing, that could be a sure sign of the need for a new house-top.

• Leakage - A leaking roof is the most devastating problem faced by most homeowners. A severe leak could cause extensive damage to the house-top and its supporting structures. This is probably the one ‘no-brainer’ that the roof needs to be replaced.

• Rotting - Rotting is another good indication that it is replacement time. Rotting is caused by the absorption of water by the matte under the shingles or decking. If the house-top is showing accelerated deterioration, then it is time to be replaced.

• Blistering, Buckling and Curling - Blistering is caused by the absorption of moisture in the shingles; buckling is commonly caused by poor ventilation; and curling is lack of a back coating. If a homeowner sees any of these three signs on their structure, contact should be made with a professional roofer for inspection and solution consideration.

Generally, deciding the right time to replace the roof involves an intensive thought process as various factors should be considered. If replacement is required, the homeowner should think about: what contractor to choose; a budget; length of working time; and any potential insurance coverage. Even if the above mentioned signs are present, it does not necessarily mean that the roof must be replaced. Many of these things can be repaired and a roofer can examine the structure to determine if complete replacement is really necessary and if that is the best financial choice.

With the help of professionals, a homeowner can make the final decision as to whether their roof is missing out on something and if it needs repairing or replacing. This is a good time for any homeowner to have the top of their house inspected by a professional contractor and make their final decision based on those results. Make sure whether that roof is missing something very vital – replacement!