Improving your home comes with a bucket list of requirements, and one of them is a roof restoration or replacement. Depending on your roof's condition, it may require some patching and repairs here and there, but in a severely deteriorated roof, it may need a restoration or replacement.

Signs that you need a roof restoration or replacement

Different signs are an indication of a damaged roof that either needs a roof restoration or replacement.

Age

No matter how sturdy a roof may seem, with time it is subject to damages or ageing and will require a roof restoration or a replacement.

Generally, a quality roof is capable of lasting for 20 to 25 years. However, it requires repairs from time to time. All types of roofs undergo a natural ageing process which can be quickened by factors such as moisture, pollution and natural effects such as weather extremities. All these factors contribute to a roof's degradation. For instance, a 10year old roof that has shingles that are broken, damaged, warped or missing will require a roof restoration instead of a roof replacement.

Knowing the exact age of your roof can help in determining if it requires restoration or replacement when it is damaged. If your roof is old, say over 20 years and needs frequent repairs, then it is time for a replacement. 

Water/moisture damage

Signs of water or moisture inside your roof is an indication that its structure is compromised. If you spot signs of dampness on the inner side of your roof, you should call a roof inspector. Why? A well-maintained roof can withstand heavy rains, hails or snow without retaining moisture.

Look out for leak trails and mould spots such as brown or black spots on the ceiling. A well-protected home with a sturdy roofing system doesn't grow moulds or rot. If you notice them on the interior ceiling and walls, the roof is damaged and calls for repairs or restoration.

Another serious sign of a wanting roof is corrosion. If the metal fasteners, gutters or metal fittings in the roof are rusting, you need a roof specialist. He will inspect your roof and advise you if you need a roof repair, restoration or replacement.

Cracked or broken tiles

A single damaged tile on your roof is all it takes for water to leak inside. Water is the beginning of all the problems. It affects insulation and causes the walls and ceilings to bubble, blister or stain. The moisture also causes dampness that leads to the growth of moulds.

Moulds multiply rapidly, leaving black or brown stains and odour. Its particles also cause respiratory problems on inhalation. So, if you spot a damaged tile on your roof, ensure you call a roofing expert immediately to avoid further problems. The replacement of cracked, broken or missing tiles is essential for the continued protection of your home against weather conditions and also pests.

Chipping/peeling paintwork

Peeling paint on the external tiles of your roof is an indication that there is a compromise on its system. Chipped paint is not only unsightly, but it also reduces the functionality of your roof in protection from external elements.

The value of regular maintenance of your roof is unmatched. Ensuring your roof's paintwork is looking good increases your home's value and prolongs the roof's life.

Damaged components

If you discover that your roof has a couple of damaged elements such as gutters, chimney, roof valleys, downpipes, vents and the attic, you must call a roof inspector. 

Another thing, check the flashing for wears or cracks. In older buildings, flashing was tar or cement-made, and with time the material breaks causing leaks. If discovered early, it may be a suitable solution to have your flashing replaced with modern metal flashing instead of a premature roof restoration or replacement.

A professional roofer will inspect your overall roof for wear and tear and advise you on the best solution. Severe wear and tear call for a roof restoration while minor damages will require repairs.

A sagging roof or ceiling

If your ceiling is droopy, it means that there are pools of water trapped inside and that could be very dangerous. Eventually, it will not handle the weight and will crumble down or break.  

If the roof is externally sagging, it means that its structural integrity is wanting. A sagging area on the roof or ceiling is a visible sign that the roof is damaged. You should call a roofing specialist to determine if the roof is eligible for restoration, repairs or replacement.

DOES YOUR ROOF NEED A RESTORATION OR REPLACEMENT?

A roof restoration Melbourne is useful in restoring the functionality and overall appearance of your roof to how it was before the damages. A roof replacement comes in handy when a roof restoration won't solve the roof problems. Replacing the roof prevents collapse or massive leaking.

If you notice any signs of damage in your roof, you should call a professional roof expert to inspect the roof thoroughly. Inspections take a short time, and many companies will offer free inspection services and quotations. Only a roof expert is capable of determining if your roof is eligible for roof restoration or replacement.

Unless it is an emergency or serious problem, the best time to inspect, restore or replace your roof is during summer or the dry season because water can prolong the process.

It would be best if you had your roof inspected every two years to discover budding damages before they become serious problems and also reduce the costs of repairs. 

A roof restoration comes at a lower cost and equally uplifts the look of your roof as a replacement. It also adds the roof’s longevity and improves the overall functionality of your roof. If your roof is not extremely damaged, you may consider having your roof restored instead of having it entirely replaced. However, for old roofs that require frequent repairs, a roof replacement is necessary to save costs and time.