​When is it Time to Replace Your Roof in Redbridge?

If you are like most people, you aren't quite sure when your roof should be replaced. It is a question that does not have a single answer. There are a number of variables that contribute to the need for roof repair, so it makes determining how long before they should be replaced difficult to determine. Here are some ways to tell if your roof needs to be replaced.

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The Age of the Roof
As we said, there is no specific period for roof replacement. There are some common-sense solutions related to the age of your roof that can help you determine if your roof needs to be replaced. If your roof is between ten to twelve years old, then it is in a range when it may start to degrade, and you should consider a replacement. You don't want to wait until you have a massive leak that requires emergency callout service in the middle of the night before you take action. Perhaps you bought an existing home, and you don't know when the roof was replaced, if ever. In either case, it would be wise to replace the roof. If you are unsure about the condition of your roof we at Redbridge Builders will be happy to inspect your roof and give you advice on if it should be replaced.

Replaced or Refurbished?
If you experience a single 'leak, it is not always a sign that your roof should be replaced, but clearly, it is nearing a time when the roof will need to be replaced. Repairing a leak may solve the problem for a few years, but it is not a permanent solution.  If more leaks occur, then replacing the roof will become necessary. 

If you have a flat roof, the lifespan of the roof is limited. Why? Flat roofing allows rainwater to pool on it which can take hours or days to evaporate. The longer your roof has water standing on it, the faster it degrades. Water is known as "the great solvent" for obvious reasons, and standing water is the enemy of any roof, more so on flat roofing. Most protective roof coatings are not designed to withstand standing (ponding) water.  Flat roofing should be replaced often, perhaps every decade or less to ensure that leaks do not do damage to the structure of your home.

If your bitumen shingle roof is shedding tabs like your dog sheds its winter coat, it won't be very long before it needs to be replaced. In such cases, the cause can be exposure to the elements or poor workmanship from the original build. Loose shingles on the first floor or higher can become hazardous if the weight of ice and snow causes them to break off and become missiles. If it is a matter of shingles not being properly affixed, the roof can be refurbished. If shingles are loose from age, then the roof should be replaced. Warped and cracked shingles are another unmistakable sign your roof needs to be replaced.

Occasionally a leak is not from the roof itself but is due to a cracked chimney crown or loose flashings. In such cases, a simple repair may be all that is required.

Roofing repair and replacement on which you can depend
If you reside in the Redbridge area and have a leaky roof, we can help. Call Redbrige Builders on 020 8088 2935 or use our simple contact form on our website. A member of our staff will be in touch to discuss how we can repair your damaged roof or replace it. Don't wait until your ceiling caves in; contact us today!