What Is Normal Wear and Tear on a Roof?

• Shannon Morton
• 3 months ago
• Categories: Roofing
• Tags: roof damage, roof maintenance, Roof repair, roofing, wear and tear

What does normal wear and tear on a roof look like, if there is such a thing? Regular wear and tear is something that happens on all kinds of roofs. Learn more about it in today’s post from experts on roof repairs from Ken Morton & Sons LLC.

Signs of Normal Aging on Your Roof

Over time, every roof undergoes a natural aging process which can manifest in various ways. Here are various ways to distinguish between normal wear and tear and more severe damage requiring immediate attention:

• Shingle Granules in the Gutters: It’s normal for asphalt shingle roofs to lose granules over time, especially after heavy storms. These granules may accumulate in your gutters. While this is a natural aspect of wear, excessive granule loss can indicate the end of your shingles’ lifecycle.
• Minor Color Fading: Exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays can cause the color of your shingles to fade gradually. This process is slow and typically uniform across the roof. Siding contractors may also match the fade of your siding to your roof’s discoloration as well.
• Slight Curling of Shingle Edges: With age, the edges of shingles might curl or slightly lift. This minor curling is a common sign of wear but should be monitored to ensure it doesn’t progress to a point where it compromises the roof’s integrity.

When to Be Concerned

While certain signs of aging are to be expected, there are clear indicators that your roof may be experiencing more than just the normal wear and tear. These symptoms suggest that a professional inspection is necessary:

• Missing or Broken Shingles: High winds and harsh weather in Sewell, NJ, can lead to shingles that are missing or broken. This damage goes beyond normal wear and can expose your roof to water damage.
• Significant Leaks: Small leaks might be repairable, but significant or multiple leaks signal that your roof’s integrity is compromised.
• Widespread Moss or Algae Growth: While some algae growth is normal, especially in humid climates like New Jersey’s, excessive growth can be damaging to your roof and may require professional cleaning or repair.

Maintenance Tips to Extend Roof Life

A well-maintained roof can surely outlast a neglected one, even in the challenging weather conditions. Have your roof inspected annually by professionals. They can spot potential issues before they become major problems. Next, keep gutters and downspouts clean. Clogged gutters can lead to water pooling and damage your roof. Lastly, tree branches can scrape against your roof and deposit debris, leading to wear. Trimming these can mitigate unnecessary damage.

Understanding the Impact of Local Climate on Your Roof

Frequent seasonal changes between cold winters and hot, humid summers can accelerate the natural aging process of your roof. When considering what is normal wear and tear on a roof, factors like temperature fluctuations, ice, and storm conditions must be taken into account. Homeowners should be proactive in maintenance and inspections to navigate these conditions effectively.

If you need excellent roofing services, you can always count on “the best roofers near me in Sewell, NJ”, Ken Morton & Sons LLC. Call us at (856) 582-8800 or fill out this contact form to get an estimate.