Your roof only has a finite time to do its job before it needs replacing. Unfortunately, it is not like the a gallon of milk with a printed expiration date on the side. You have to be a watchful homeowner and keep an eye on its overall health. Thankfully, this is not as hard as it may sound. There are several telltale signs that help warn homeowners when the end is near. 

1. Missing Shingles: All shingles should be present and accounted for. Contrary to what many people think, your roof should not be missing shingles. They are expected to stay put on your roof in up to hurricane force winds. In fact, the International Building Code demands that shingles withstand winds up to 110mph. If your home is missing shingles, it is due to your roof reaching the end of its life expectancy. 

2. Curling Edges: Asphalt shingles are malleable when they are first installed on your roof, but over time, they harden and become brittle. With that brittleness, the edges typically curl up, and eventually, break off. When you notice this activity on your roof, it is a sign of aging. Call a roofing contractor to take a closer look at your roof. 

3. Gravel Accumulation: Shingles also have a gravel-like coating on their surface when first installed. This coating is meant to protect the shingles, and in turn, your home, from the effects of harsh weather conditions. Over the years, as rain and snow beat down on your roof, the gravel is knocked loose and eventually wears off. Rain washes the gravel down into your home's gutter system or down onto the ground. Taking a walk around the perimeter of your home once a month can help you spot excess gravel around the perimeter or in the splash guards at the end of each downspout. 

4. Squishy Roof Decking: If you own a ladder and are not afraid of heights, climb up onto your roof for a closer look. If your roof does not feel solid as you walk around, or if it seems squishy, it should be a red flag. A roof should be solid. When it doesn't feel solid, it is an indication that there is possible water damage to the plywood or OSB underlayment beneath the shingles. 

So, How Can You Help Your Roof Last Longer?

Mother Nature is the biggest culprit in roof health. Rain, snow, sleet, ice, and UV rays all play a big part in the life expectancy of your roof. You can't control any of those factors. You can, however, keep debris off your roof. Trim back low-hanging branches that rub against your roof in the wind, and be proactive about tree removal. Taking preventative measures now can buy you extra time with your roof later. Contact a roof company, like the one represented at http://osmusroofing.com/, to examine your roof at the first sign of damage.