Wondering how often should you replace your roof? Being that roofing is not permanent, many homeowners end up replacing their roofs eventually. There are a few factors that also determine how often you should get your roofing replaced, including the roofing materials used, weather conditions, maintenance, and damages. This article will explain everything you need to know in order to spot when your roof needs to be replaced.
Let’s begin.
Lifespan of Roofing Materials
The different roofing materials are not constructed the same, and they all have different levels of durability and longevity. Here is a look at the lifespan of the most popular roofing materials:
Asphalt Shingles
When installed properly and maintained, 3-tab asphalt shingles can last between 15-20 years. Architectural asphalt shingles, on the other hand, are a bit thicker than 3-tab shingles and will last between 20-30 years on average, but there are some extra-resilient brands that last even longer.
The downside to shingles is that they are susceptible to wear and tear (such as loose granules), cracks, punctures, mold and mildew, and other damages. Without proper maintenance, the condition of your asphalt shingles will worsen rapidly. Ensure you are getting annual roofing inspections and doing the proper amount of maintenance to keep your shingles functioning optimally.
Wood Shingles and Shakes
Wooden shingles and shakes are excellent options, but they are prone to mold and mildew growth. Wood shingles are thinner than shakes and have a lifespan of 25-30 years on average. Meanwhile, wooden shakes may last up to 40 years. Wooden roofing requires extensive maintenance to get that full lifespan.
Clay or Cement Tiles
Known for being both strong and heavy, these tiles are built to last. Clay and cement tiles require additional support when installed, providing your home with further protection from the elements. Because of this, clay or cement shingles may last between 50-100 years with good maintenance.
Slate Shingles
Similar to clay or cement, slate is incredibly durable. It also requires extra-strong roofing, which is why it is not as common as it used to be. Slate roofing lasts 100 years or longer.
Metal Roofing
Another long-lasting roofing choice is metal. Steel and aluminum metal roofing will last up to 50 years before you need to have it replaced. Copper and zinc can last up to 100 years or longer, depending on weather and maintenance.
How Weather Affects Roofing
The region in which you live, as well as the location of your home, will play a role in how often your roof needs to be replaced. For instance, if you live somewhere prone to hurricanes and thunderstorms, your roof is going to have a shorter lifespan than a region with more sunny days. However, periods of extreme heat and unrelenting sunlight can also damage your roof.
By taking into consideration weather conditions, as well as storm and wind damage, you may be able to determine when your roof needs to be replaced.
Roof Damages That May Require Roof Replacement
As mentioned earlier, leaving issues unfixed only subtracts years from your roof. Here are some examples of damages that negatively affect the lifespan of your roof:
Moisture and Water Damage
When you spot water damage throughout the house, you know it is time to get your roof replaced. Yellowed or browned spots on the walls and ceiling are a sure sign that there is a leak. When rainwater travels down through the cracks, the debris gets deposited in the paint on your walls.
You may also notice puddles or sections of the ceiling that sagging with moisture. Get this problem looked into immediately!
Leaking and Holes in the Roof
See sunlight shining through the insulation in your attic? That means there is a hole in your roof that reaches all the way through the underlayment. In other words, trouble. Holes and even small cracks can let in a significant amount of water, leading to all kinds of damage throughout the home.
Exterior Damages
Damages that point to getting your roof replaced sooner than later can also be seen from the outside. Take a look up at the roof and around your yard. Do you see any cracked, missing, or curling shingles? Are there shingle granules in the gutters or on the ground? Do sections of the roof seem to sink under your feet when you walk around?
All of these are symptoms of a damaged roof that needs to be replaced.
Also, be sure to check the health of your gutters and any of the flashings around windows and chimneys. Anything that is loose or missing poses a threat to the safety of your home. Should you spot damages, be sure to call a roofing contractor for assistance, as they may also be able to uncover any hidden damages to your home.
Get Your Roof Replaced Soon
How often should you replace your roof? It depends on the lifespan of your roof and the condition of the materials. If you notice any extensive damage, it is best not to wait and start looking for a replacement roof as soon as you can. Need help determining if your roof needs to be replaced? Call RGB Construction at 856-264-9093 today. Our experienced and friendly team can answer all of your questions about roofing replacement.
