A properly installed roof can reach the end of its useful life without experiencing leaks or other signs of failure. It may simply look old and worn out. However, storm damage can wreak havoc on an old roof and cause further problems down the road. So, you need to watch for warning signs that your roof needs replacement even if it looks fine at the moment. Fortunately, our real estate agents have searched far and wide to bring you this list of telltale signs that your roof needs to be replaced.

• Your Roof is at Least 20 Years Old
  All roofing systems have a maximum lifespan. Asphalt shingles, for example, last 15-20 years, while tile roofing can last up to 100 years. Although many shingles today are made for durability, several factors can accelerate aging. For example, harsh storms can damage your roof, compromising its integrity. Poorly ventilated roofs can also negatively impact your shingles and cause them to fail sooner. So, an asphalt shingle roof that is 20 years old should be a signal for replacement regardless of its present condition.
  
  
• Sagging Roof
  A droopy, sagging roof should be replaced as soon as possible before further damage occurs to your home. Inspect the surface of the roof for signs of trapped moisture and sagging spots.
  
  
• Rotting
  Rotting is common for asphalt and wooden roofs. Look for any signs of decay. For tile roofs, the telltale signs of would be deteriorating tiles, mold buildup in groups of tiles, or missing and broken tiles.
  
  
• Shoddy Workmanship
  Sometimes, it doesn't require a professional to identify shoddy workmanship. If your roof is full of patches, or the tiles or shingles don't seem to snugly fit together, it could be a sign that the roof was installed by an inexperienced storm chaser. Let a professional roofer inspect your roof and correct any shoddy workmanship issues.
  
  
• Worn-Out Roof Flashing
  The flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights help seals the seams of your roof from rain and weather elements. Examine these points to make sure there are no breaks or cracks that could lead to leaks or water damage. In older homes, flashing is mostly made of tar or roof cement, but it's a good idea to upgrade such flashing materials to metal systems for added durability.
  
  
• Paper Trail
  When looking for Atlanta homes for sale, check the home improvement records to learn how long ago the roof was installed, replaced, or reshingled. By knowing when the roof was installed, you can tell how much life it has left. For example, a new asphalt shingles roof should be replaced after about 20 years, while a roof installed over an existing one should be replaced after about 15 years.
  
  
• Unwanted Plants
  Airborne algae can cause dark streaks on your roof deck. While these unwanted plants may not necessarily harm your roof shingles, they often look bad. You can remove algae streaks using a 50:50 mixture of bleach and water, spayed using a low-volume garden hose. However, if algae have eaten away at your roof shingles, it could be time to replace them. Moss can also hold moisture against your roof's surface and cause damage. Over time in freezing weather, these elements can damage the granules on top of the shingles and affect your roof's resistance to UV rays. 

Just because you notice a few damaged shingles or a small leak, don't hurriedly assume that you need a whole new roof. Contact us today to learn how to prepare your Atlanta home for sale.