As leaves fall and snow begins to accumulate on the ground, it may be easy to forget that winter is right around the corner. One thing not many people realize is that when they have a bad roof over their heads during this time of year, snow and ice can cause some serious damage which results in leaks or other problems. Luckily there are three signs you should look for before winter comes which will tell you if it's time to get a new roof:

3 signs that your roof needs to be replaced

1 - Signs of Leaks

One sign is if the roof starts to leak. If you notice water coming in through your ceiling or walls, it may be time to get a new roof. This could happen either because the weather stripping on your door frame is old or because there are holes in your shingles. You can tell if the latter is the case if you notice that snow melts on one side of your roof but not on the other.

2 - Cracks or Curling

Another sign is cracks and curls in shingles. This can occur when the nails holding your shingles to the beams beneath them pull loose. When this happens, you should call a roofer right away because it can lead to leaks later on if not fixed sooner rather than later.

3 - Your Roof is More Than 20 Years Old

If you haven't had any repairs done since the original installation of your roof, then that means that your roof is likely ready to be replaced. A roof can last up to 20 years, but after this time it's likely best to call your local roofer.

It's important to know that not all roofs are the same when it comes to their lifespan. In fact, depending on where you live in the country your roof could have a shorter or longer life span. The following list shows how long a roof typically lasts depending on the region:

Roof Average Life Span

Here in the The Northeast – 15-20 years

The Midwest – 25-30 years

The South – 20-25 years

Western States – 20-30 years

In addition, these regions will have varying weather patterns that can affect the lifespan of your roof. For example, more rain and wind will mean that you'll likely need to replace your roof more frequently than someone in a region that typically has less precipitation.

This is especially true if you're living in an area where there are four distinct seasons because the more extreme weather patterns can cause significant damage to your home's exterior.

If you have any doubt as to the health of your roof, the easiest way to protect your home and know for sure that your roof still has life left in it, schedule a roof inspection.  Our roofing specialists in Massachusetts can inspect your roof for signs of aging, failing, leaks, and other roofing warning signs. 

Get a Roof Inspection Before Winter

Winter is a time when roofs are at the highest risk for damage due to snow and ice. If you have a bad roof during this time, snow and ice can cause some serious damage which results in leaks or other problems.  Identifying roofing warning signs before the winter season begins could save you in costly repairs. 

Do You Have A Roof Emergency?  We Can Help!

Sometimes roofing emergencies come up when we least expect it - especially in the winter season.  Roof Pros offers emergency roof repair throughout Western Massachusetts.  Contact us right away if you are experiencing roofing problems that need to be fixed right away.  You can call us at (413) 707-7663 or contact us online.

About Roof Pros 

Roof Pros is a locally owned Exterior Home Improvement company serving Hampshire County, MA, Franklin County, MA and Hampden County, MA. At Roof Pros, we specialize in Roof Installations, Roof Repairs and Emergency Roof Repairs, Roof Inspections, Gutter Installation, and Siding Installation. We offer free estimates on all of our residential and commercial projects.

Is your roof ready for the winter?  Schedule Roof Pros to Inspect Your Roof Today!