Your roof protects everything underneath it, but it doesn’t last forever. Knowing when to repair versus when to replace is crucial for avoiding costly damage. Here are five clear signs your GTA home may need a professional re-roofing.
1. Your Roof Is Over 20 Years Old
Standard three-tab shingles last 15 to 20 years. Architectural shingles last 25 to 30 years. If your roof is approaching these milestones, get a professional inspection. The Canadian Asphalt Shingle Manufacturers’ Association recommends annual inspections for roofs over 15 years old.
2. Shingles Are Curling or Buckling
Curling indicates moisture damage or poor ventilation. Buckling creates gaps where water penetrates. Both are signs the material has deteriorated beyond its useful life.
3. Granules in Your Gutters
Those tiny coloured granules in your eavestroughs are the protective coating from your shingles. Excessive granules in mature roofs indicate the shingles are breaking down and becoming vulnerable to UV damage.
4. Visible Daylight Through the Roof Boards
If you can see daylight from inside the attic, water is getting in too. Check for light spots, moisture stains, and soft spots in the decking. This typically requires full replacement rather than patching.
5. Sagging Roof Deck
A sagging roofline is serious. It indicates structural damage from long-term moisture exposure. This requires immediate attention — not just new shingles but potentially new decking and structural repairs.
What to Expect from a Re-Roof
Professional re-roofing includes full tear-off, decking inspection, ice and water shield, new underlayment, new shingles, and proper flashing. In the GTA, expect $8,000 to $15,000 depending on size and materials.
Don’t Wait
A failing roof leads to insulation damage, mould, structural deterioration, and interior water damage. The cost of a new roof is a fraction of repairing cascading damage from failure.
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