While a roof replacement is a major investment for any homeowner, putting off replacing your old or damaged roof could lead to significant damage to your home and property. To avoid some common roofing issues, it is important to be aware of the signs that your roof needs to be replaced. A contractor that specializes in roof replacement near Redmond will be there to assist you with every step of installing a brand new roof on your home.

There are a few signs that your home is ready for a new roof. Even though different roof types have varied life spans, you will want to start considering replacing your roof after it has surpassed 20 years in age. Along with considering the age of your roof, you will also want to assess its condition. A roof that has missing or broken shingles might be ready to be replaced. A significantly leaking roof is also a good candidate for replacement, rather than repair.

While your roof may seem structurally sound when you look at it from the ground, even the most solid looking roofs can have hidden damage and other problems. At periodic intervals over the years, it is important to schedule roof inspections. A team of qualified roofing contractors near Redmond can provide you with a roof inspection that identifies any problem areas throughout your home’s roof. To help you determine when to call your roofing company, here is a look at some key times when you will want to schedule a roof inspection.

At Regularly Scheduled Intervals

Even if you do not notice any signs of damage to your roof, you will want to set up roof inspections at regular intervals throughout the lifespan of your roof. As a general rule of thumb, it is recommended that you have your roof inspected at least once every two years. Having your roofers to come and check out the quality and condition at this frequency will help you avoid potentially serious roofing problems.

After a Big Storm

Major storms can strike your area at many different times throughout the year. If your house has recently weathered a big storm, you will want to schedule a roof inspection as soon as possible after the incident. During your roof inspection, your roofing contractors will be able to identify any roofing issues that have been caused by high winds, heavy rains, or other extreme weather conditions.

Before You Buy

Scheduling a roof inspection is an important step in purchasing a home, as the seller may have not had the roof inspected in quite some time. Your roof inspection will provide you with peace of mind that comes from knowing that the home is in good condition. Along with inspecting the roof of a property that you are thinking of buying, it is a smart idea to set up a whole home inspection. Identifying potential structural issues in a property will help you figure out whether the home will be worth your investment.

Getting to know the different elements of your home’s roof will help you identify when there is a problem. If you struggle to identify your roofing shingles, flashing, and other roofing materials, you might be in need of some basic roofing education. A team of roofers serving Redmond will be thrilled to tell you more about the various components of your roof. After learning about how your roof is constructed, you will be able to maintain it properly. Let’s take a look at some important roofing terms that every homeowner should know.

Shingles

The shingles form the outer layer of your roof, and they are probably the most easily identifiable component of your roof. Shingles can be made out of a variety of different materials, including asphalt, cedar, and tile. When you are shopping for new shingles for your roof, it is important to pick out a product that is both durable and attractive. Your shingles will have a dramatic impact on the final appearance of your roof.

Flashing

Flashing is another important structural component for the roof of your home. Typically, flashing is composed of durable metal materials, such as copper or aluminum. After the roof shingles have been installed, flashing strips are used to seal any corners or seams. Once the flashing has been nailed into place, your roof will be water tight. If you start to notice strips of metal peeling up from the surface of your roof, you may be in need of a flashing replacement.

Pitch or Slope

Unless your roof is perfectly flat, it will have a certain degree of pitch or slope. The incline that your roof makes in comparison to the ground will impact its weather resistance and ability to drain water. During a roof inspection, your roofer might take the time to measure the pitch of your roof from the ground. Homeowners who continually experience roofing problems might want to consider adjusting roof pitch during a roof replacement procedure.

Your roof’s vent pipes are continually exposed to water, sunlight, and other damaging elements. In this video from This Old House, you will learn about the importance of fixing a leaking vent pipe on your roof. If your vent pipe starts to leak, your roof and attic could suffer from water damage. A team of roofing contractors near Redmond will have the tools and materials that are needed to fix a leaking rooftop vent pipe.

After your roof vents have been repaired, you can rest assured that your vent and surrounding roofing materials are protected from water damage. Caulking, flanges, and other special roofing materials can be used to completely seal off the vulnerable areas of the vent.