23 Dec New Year, New… Roof? How to Tell If It’s Time.

Once the end of the year rolls around, you just might have home improvements at the front of your mind. After all, with a new year comes new opportunities to refresh your home, so it’s natural to begin contemplating the ins and outs of all the possibilities.

But what about your roof?

A new roof might not just sound nice but also be a necessary project worth tackling. Here’s how to tell:

The Likelihood of Longevity

Unless you have a slate roof  — which can last an average of 50 years, according to US News & World Report — the rule of thumb would be to replace your roof every 20 years or so.

But don’t simply wait for the years to pass you by. Instead, remember that there are a number of factors that still need to be taken into account and may shorten your roof’s overall lifespan.

Specifically, homeowners should consider…

• Home design/building
• Material type
• Material quality
• Periodic maintenance
• And more

Also, keep in mind that you never want to underestimate the impact that local climate and weather can have.

“Hot climates drastically reduce asphalt shingle life,” the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) explains. “Roofs in areas that experience severe weather, such as hail, tornadoes and/or hurricanes, may also experience a shorter-than-normal lifespan overall.”

If your roof has been regularly battered — particularly by Florida’s harsh seasons — you may want to get it replaced sooner than later.

Searching for Signs and Signals

One of the telltale signs a necessary roof replacement might be around the corner? Your neighbors are all jumping on the bandwagon.

“Homes built around the same time period can be experiencing the same types of weather conditions can mean that your roof is nearing its useful life,” according to Owens Corning. So, if your neighborhood is suddenly active with roofing contractors, it might be time for you to run with the crowd of your fellow homeowners.

That being said, there are also visual signals that your roof needs a little TLC… if not an outright replacement.

In particular, keep an eye out for the following on your roof:

• Mold and mildew
• Moss
• Sagging spots
• Bald spots
• Cracked and/or curling shingles
• And more

Confidently Calling Your Contractor

If you know you’re ready to embark on the roof replacement journey but don’t know where to start, Universal Roof & Contracting is ready and waiting to help you take the first step!

Not only do we have over 30 years’ worth of experience in helping homeowners across Jacksonville and Central Florida both care for their forever roofs, but we can help you determine the material type and style that best suits your needs.

And if you aren’t sure whether or not a total roof replacement is warranted, we’ll be there to provide you with answers via a FREE roof inspection!

So, are you ready to get on top of your roof? If so, it’s time to contact the Universal Roof & Contracting team today by dialing 1-855-ROOF-HELP! When you work with us, you’ll see how the difference is universal.