Your roof is the first line of protection against the weather. It ensures that mold and mildew don’t make your house slowly rot away. However, your roof isn't immune to damage. Severe weather can rip shingles loose. UV damage will slowly wear away at asphalt shingles. When that happens, you must decide whether you need repairs or a roof replacement. Here are some of the most common signs indicating it's time to reach out to a roofing contractor for a new roof installation.

1. You Make Frequent Repairs

Frequent repairs are a critical indicator that you need a roofing replacement. It’s common to see some damage after severe weather, and you may even see a few shingles fly loose or need a minor repair. However, if you need repairs frequently, it’s a sign that you need a roofing replacement. Otherwise, the repairs will get more frequent until you can’t keep up with them.

2. Your Roof Is Aging

When making this decision, it pays to consider the age of the roof. According to Bob Vila, an asphalt roof’s lifespan is 15 to 30 years, but roofs in harsh climates with severe weather may have a shorter lifespan. Similarly, if you haven't kept up with regular maintenance, the roof may wear out even faster. If you're unsure whether your roof has aged past recommended use, a professional inspection can help.

3. Your Roof Is Sagging

A sagging roof is a serious problem. The wooden beams that support your roof may weaken with time. This is common if your roof has heavy snow loads on top of it. An inexperienced roofing contractor may put down more asphalt shingles on top of an existing roof instead of properly tearing them off, putting too much weight on the beams. A sagging roof typically indicates you need a new roof.

4. You've Noted Shingle Granule Loss

Asphalt shingles are known to deteriorate slowly with age. This is often due to normal wear and tear or UV damage. Asphalt shingles are coated with a special coating to help protect them from UV damage, but this wears away with time. As shingles reach the end of their lifespan, you’ll notice tiny bits of granules in your gutters. You may see them in your yard as they run through the gutter and into the grass with the rainwater.

As a roofing contractor, we understand how challenging it can be to determine whether you need repair or replacement. Our experienced professionals can help! Contact our team at Integrity Roofing to schedule an appointment today.