Keeping up with roof repair is important for protecting your property investment. But how do you know when it’s time to stop repairing and start replacing? Columbia Roofing has the answers. As Elkridge, MD’s most reliable roofing company for the past 30 years, you can count on them to deliver honest, accurate advice.

Here are three ways to determine whether your roof needs to be repaired or replaced:

• Age: One of the easiest ways to tell whether roof repair is still a viable option is to base your decisions on the age of your roof. Most asphalt shingle roofs last between 20 and 25 years, and metal roofs have a lifespan closer to 50 years. If your roof is reaching the end of its expected lifespan, paying another repair bill isn’t worth the investment.
• Uneven Surfaces: While a missing or damaged shingle can easily be fixed with roof repair, a grouping of damaged shingles is a more complex issue. Often this indicates a valley or depression where the structural integrity of your roof is being seriously threatened. Even if your shingles show no sign of damage, you will still see subtle dips and hills in the roof’s surface. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time for a new roof.
• Loose Shingle Granules: As your roof ages and succumbs to the forces of Mother Nature, your shingles will start to shed granules. These granules are tiny black beads that eventually find their way into your rain gutters and downspouts. Clean your gutters regularly to spot this early indication of a failing roof. Once the shingles start to wear out, it will only be a matter of time before you face more serious issues.

If you suspect your roof is damaged, contact Columbia Roofing to verify whether you need roof repair or replacement. Schedule a roof inspection by calling (410) 479-6100, or visit the website for more information about their residential roofing services.