A leaky roof could be one sign that it is time to get a new structure. This is a commonly encountered problem by homeowners who live in a century-old ancestral home or who just moved into an old "fixer-upper" house with renovation ambitions. The customary solution to this problem is installing a new roof.

Unfortunately, many people have difficulty determining the exact physical condition of their residence, particularly when it comes to the roofing system. Most homeowners only take action after they encounter a problem, which is absolutely the wrong approach to take! Immediate action should be taken either before moving into the house or immediately after moving in, to determine if the system needs to be replaced.

There are several indications that the old system needs to be repaired in order to restore it to a functioning condition. In order to avoid substantial damage in the future, it is imperative to pay attention to the warning signs that suggest that it is replacement time. In order to do this, a visual assessment should be done to see if there is any deviation from what is normally considered a functional housetop.

Following are some of the signs to look for to determine if the housetop needs to be replaced:

Algae Colonization - For asphalt shingle type of roofs, look for changes in the appearance, especially black streaks caused by algae. Generally, this happens to houses located in areas where there is high humidity which contributes to algae growth and may cover over the entire surface. When algae grow, they break down the components of each shingle, permitting water to penetrate through the sheathing and into the attic area. This is a strong sign that the roof needs to be replaced.

Blistering and Buckling - Blistering and buckling is another big indication that it is time to invest in a new roof. During an inspection, if the homeowner sees these kinds of changes, then the materials are brittle and can no longer withstand the strong forces of nature. It is extremely important to replace the system before damage continues to expand, ultimately destroying the underlying structure. Replacing the roof sooner rather than later will help save money if the integrity of the underlying structure remains strong and does not require replacement.

Termite Infestation - The presence of termites is an absolute sign that the old house needs a new building cover. These wood-eating insects damage the building from the inside out, so it is difficult to tell where the infestation started and where it has spread. Contact a professional exterminator to get rid of the termites and to help assess the extent of the damage. Termites get into wood by digging up tubes and this is where the problem exists. They might have eaten supporting beams, decreasing the capability to reinforce the entire upper covering of the house.

Installing a new roof is necessary if the condition of the old one looks rotting and damaged. Algae; termite infestation; blistering and buckling are only a few of the examples of what to look for to decide if the roof really needs to be replaced. If the deck is sagging; if there is any leaking; if there is sunlight penetrating through the roof that can be seen from inside the attic; if there are any cracked or missing shingles, if there is excessive shingle granulation, and if there is the presence of moisture in the attic, these are key indicators that the old house does indeed need a new roof!