How to know if your roof needs repairing or replacing

Posted on 19 January 2025

Your roof is one of the most critical components of your home. Protecting it from the elements and ensuring a comfortable living environment. However, like all parts of your property, roofs wear down over time. The key question many homeowners in Grimsby face is ‘ How to know if your roof needs repairing or replacing’. In this guide, we’ll explore the signs that indicate when your roof requires attention. As well as, help you make an informed decision on the best course of action. 

Age of the Roof 

The age of your roof is often the first indicator of whether it needs repairs or replacing. Most roofs have a lifespan of around 20 to 30 years. Depending on the materials used and the quality of installation. Asphalt shingle roofs, which are common in Grimsby, generally last around 20-25 years. If your roof is nearing or past this age range, it might be time to consider replacing it. Even if there are no obvious leaks, an ageing roof is likely to have weakened components. Postponing a replacement could result in costly damage later on. 

New Roofs in GrimsbyWhen to repair: If your roof is still within its typical lifespan and issues are isolated. 

When to replace: If your roof is nearing the end of its life or if frequent repairs are required. 

Visible Damage to Roof Shingles 

Shingles act as the first line of defence against rain, wind, and other harsh weather conditions. Over time, they can become damaged due to exposure. Common issues include curling, cracking, or missing shingles. 

Signs of roof repairs needed:

– Curled or buckled shingles: If a small section of your roof has curling shingles, a repair may be enough. Curling happens as a result of ageing or moisture buildup beneath the shingle surface.

– Cracked shingles: Cracked shingles can be repaired, especially if damage is minimal and only impacts a small area.

– Missing shingles: A few missing shingles due to storm damage or wear and tear can usually be replaced individually by a professional roofing contractor like Raven Roofing in Grimsby. 

Signs your roof needs replacement:

– Widespread shingle damage: If you notice a large portion of your roof has broken, cracked, or curling shingles, this could indicate a systemic issue. In such cases, patchwork repairs won’t be enough to extend the life of your roof.

– Shingle granule loss: If your gutters are filled with shingle granules, this is a sign that the roof’s surface is deteriorating. This often happens toward the end of a roof’s lifespan, signalling that replacement is imminent. 

Leaks and Water Damage 

Water is one of the biggest threats to the structural integrity of your home. Leaks, whether large or small, should never be ignored. Spotting signs of water damage inside your home, such as water stains on your ceiling or walls, means your roof may have a serious issue. 

When to repair: A single, localised leak, such as one caused by a displaced shingle or damaged flashing, can often be fixed with a simple roof repair. If caught early, this can prevent more extensive damage. 

When to replace: If leaks are widespread or recurring after multiple repairs, this is a sign that your roof’s waterproofing is compromised. Prolonged water damage can lead to mould, rotting wood, and structural problems. Making a full roof replacement the best long-term solution. 

Sagging Roof How do I know if I need a new roof

A sagging roof is an alarming issue and typically signals significant structural damage. If the roof deck (the underlying structure) sags, it might be due to water damage, excess weight, or deteriorating materials. 

When to repair: Minor sagging in small areas may sometimes be repaired if caught early, depending on the cause. 

When to replace: If your roof is sagging in multiple areas or across large sections, it is likely past the point of repair. In such cases, a replacement is needed to avoid collapse or further damage to your property. 

Damaged Flashing 

Flashing, the metal pieces placed around chimneys, vents, and skylights, is essential for directing water away from vulnerable areas. Over time, flashing can rust, crack, or become loose. Allowing water to seep in. 

When to repair: If your flashing is damaged in only a few areas, such as around a chimney or vent, a professional roofing company like Raven Roofing can repair or replace it without requiring a full roof overhaul. 

When to replace: If the flashing throughout the roof is extensively corroded or damaged, and combined with other issues like shingle wear. This could be another sign that your roof has reached the end of its life. 

Moss and Algae Growth 

While moss or algae on your roof may not seem like a big deal, it can lead to larger problems. Moss can trap moisture, which accelerates the wear of roofing materials. 

When to repair: Cleaning moss and algae off the roof and treating it with a preventive solution is often enough if caught early. 

When to replace: If moss growth has led to moisture retention and subsequent damage, you may need to replace affected areas or even the entire roof if damage is widespread. 

Making the right decision about roof repairs or replacement comes down to assessing the extent of damage, age, and wear of your roof. As a homeowner in Grimsby, it’s vital to stay vigilant and inspect your roof regularly for any of the signs mentioned above. At Raven Roofing, we specialise in roof repairs in Grimsby and can help you determine whether you need a repair or full replacement. Contact us today for an expert consultation and to protect your home for the years ahead.

Contact us  

If you are looking for roof repairs in Grimsby, get in touch. Call us on 01472 565 084 or send a message via the form on the website to reach our friendly team. We’re on hand to tell you more about our roof range and repair services and provide you with a competitive quote for the work you require.

 

Customer Reviews
Raven Roofing & Repairs Ltd
Excellent
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Based on 44 reviews
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Emma Smith
Highly recommend Raven Roofing. Great service, polite and punctual. Very happy with the work carried out.
Julie Reed
A very efficient job replacing problematic concrete guttering. The skip and scaffolding gone within 24 hours of completion. Would definitely recommend this company. Steve L
Maggie N
Very good quality work from Raven Roofing done on our guttering and tiles.I appreciated being told exactly what had been done and how.The work was carried out quickly and for a very reasonable price.
alice judge
Great service from Raven Roofing and Repairs, came out to assess, and quickly fitted us in for necessary repairs, would definitely recommend.
Tessa Heelas
Prompt reply to email. Arranged to assess within 1 week. Did the job promptly as arranged. Good price
Shawn Bosworth
Chris and his apprentice were brilliant! Came out in the miserable rain and made my roof water tight again. I had several quotes from other roofers, cowboys trying to milk my desperation for silly money. Chris was honest, fair and reasonably priced. Highly recommended, thanks!
mark appleby
Extremely Happy with Job!Chris, Quickly assessed the roof and gave options on what could be done.Once Date Agreed, delivered on time with a very professional looking job. Job was in Feb and Chris and Team went out of their way to get the job done even though weather was bad at end of week. They left Work area very clean. Highly reccomend them!
Bev Barley
Thanks for doing a first class job would highly recommend Chris for a job well done
Robert Meadows
Mike Downs
Fantastic, would recommend to anyone who needs roof work. Polite, helpful and super fast. Thanks so much.
Lisa McMahon
Had a leak from my roof. Chris came out the same day althoughthe weather wasn't good. He surveyed the roof and found the problem immediately (a tile had slipped), took photo's before and after replacing the slipped tile. I asked how much I owed him - he said there was NO charge as it was a quick repair. What a lovely, kind, genuine guy! Would highly recommended him and his company.
Roland Packer
We recently had the roof on our extension replaced by raven roofing. Chris and his young helper couldn't have been more helpful. Work done to a very high standard. Quote honoured to the penny. Genuinely nice people and a real pleasure to do business with. Will definitely call them for the services they offer, when needed.
Michelle Packer
Can’t recommend this company enough. Did a great job on our roof , very friendly team , punctual, good quality work and good value for money . Many thanks
Carol Howden
Very friendly team and carried out a great job. Arrived and just got on with the job. Looks great
andrew engeham
Competitive price and excellent workmanship.Highly recommended.
Keith Brown
Great company great service
John Hornsby
Came on time very Satisfied with wat was done. Will be using them again if needed
Omer Khalifa
renegade jokerrr
Fantastic service! Nice and friendly guys! Very quick work! Great customer service! If I need any repairs in the future i will use Raven again.
Margaret Dabb
After being let down by another firm i rang Chris in desperation. Within an hour he arrived, looked at work, discussed, priced and booked a date. Arrived on time, everything ran like clockwork even in the awful heat they had to work through. Very well organised, very tidy, would have no hesitation in recommending his work. Many thanks
Zoe Gibbons
Can’t recommend Chris and his team more, they were all friendly, polite and efficient and left my patio tidier than it was before! Nothing was too much trouble and good quality work and price. I’d definitely recommend Raven Roofing to all my friends and family.
Alan Grosschmidt
Would Recommend Raven Roofing.We had new gutters and facias fitted all round the house.We were really pleased with the completed job.I did point out a minor oversight, which Chris promptly dealt with.The quote for the job was very competitive and I doubt you could get it done cheaper.So deserves 5 Stars.
Andrea Goforth
Was very happy with the prompt, professional, and friendly service provided by this company . They were so quick to help me out and repair a badly storm damaged roof. It is such a joy to have a service provider come when they say they will! Reasonable price and good quality workmanship too . Thank you, Raven Roofing .
Mandy
We had the tiles down the gulley re-bedded.Very professional and cleaned up afterwards. Really friendly and very kind guy and we will definitely be using Raven Roofing again in the new year to do our guttering! Thanks Chris 👍🏻
Mike Prior
they repaired a dislodged tile free of charge. Just asked To be remembered for other works and telling my friends
Sally Melton
Had a skylight fitted. Excellent service, fitted my job in even though extremely busy. Was absolutely delighted the attention to detail was perfect. Made sure everything was tidied up and taken away. Thank you again. Would highly recommend.
Ali Wickham
Peter Hogarth
These guys did a great job repointing my roof gulleys
Pamela Blow
Samantha Blow
Excellent service, I would highly recommend :)
Derek Coates
Chris promptly repaired the front guttering which is now ok.
Lee Popham
Rang raven to come and fix my roof after last months storm, came next day and repaired, very happy with service and price, will definitely use again.
Mark Barnard
Very good reliable service all work guaranteed
kevin langley
When we needed urgent roof repairs, Raven Roofing & Repairs came to the rescue. Great quality work undertaken by true professionals.
Steve Nowell
I recently had repairs done to my roof. The response and service were excellent, nothing was too much trouble and the work carried out effectively and efficiently
Kelly Brewer
Excellent service, recently had repairs carried out on my house roof, Chris was really friendly, work carried out to a great standard at a great price 🙂
AerinB
We have used Raven Roofing several times for small repairs as we didn't want to go to the expense of a new roof, but recent torrential rain forced us to accept we needed a new roof. We were dreading the bill but Raven Roofing were very reasonable (not sure if I'm allowed to say how much).The scaffolding arrived and was put up promptly, Raven Roofing arriving a couple of days later to start work, the only delays were due to bad weather and Raven Roofing contacted us to let us know about any delays which we really liked, usually builders don't bother. Raven roofing were polite, friendly and courteous at all times.Out roof was completely stripped and replaced in a week, all rubbish was removed and the gardens left looking tidy.The roof itself looks fantastic...we are very very pleased and highly recommend Raven Roofing.
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