Your roof is a very critical part of your home’s exterior. It keeps the elements out of your home, works with your HVAC system to conserve energy, and adds to the curb appeal of your home. A new roof can be costly, which is why you want to keep it in the best shape possible for as long as you can. However, every roof has a life expectancy and when it reaches the end of that time, a replacement is necessary. RGB Construction believes that understanding how long your roof is supposed to last can help you know when it may be time to replace it.
Asphalt Roofing
The most common type of roofing in Delaware is asphalt shingle roofing. This is not only because it is affordable, but also because it is durable enough to withstand the extreme weather ranges in the state. The northern area of the state sees more snow and ice during the winter than the southern areas, although they can also see severe snow and ice storms periodically. In the summer, temperatures can rise above 100 degrees in all areas of the state which can also have an impact on the life of your roof. Homes near the coastline may deal with high winds as well. An asphalt roof will last for up to 30 years, depending on the quality of the asphalt shingles.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is growing in popularity in Delaware mostly because they are extremely durable. Metal roofing comes in a wide range of colors, another reason many homeowners are installing them on their homes. Most metal roofing is constructed using multiple metals, including aluminum, copper, steel, tin, and zinc. These materials reflect heat, so they are perfect for homes that do not have much tree cover. Metal roofs do need regular maintenance, or they will not last. It is possible to have a metal roof last 50 years or more while most come with warranties that range from 15 to 25 years. Some, like those with black or blue zinc patinas, may have a lifetime warranty.
Slate or Tile Roofing
Although not as common as asphalt or metal roofing, slate or tile roofing can be found on some homes in Delaware. Slate is impervious to water which makes it very durable in areas that see a lot of rain and snow. Tile is also impervious, but it is susceptible to cracking and breaking if something falls on it. It is important to note that slate and tile are much heavier than other types of roofing which may mean walls must be reinforced. Slate roofing can last as long as 100 years or more if it is taken care of while tile lasts for 50 to 125 years. However, both slate and tile can be very expensive.
Wood Shake Roofing
Wood shake roofing was popular in Delaware in the past although many homeowners moved to asphalt or metal roofing. However, wood shake can add a unique look to a home, so some homeowners are moving back to the roofing material. Usually made of cedar, the wood shake is made by hand, and this creates a unique look no matter how many roofs in the area have that type of material. It is costly because of its uniqueness, and it can last between 60 to 100 years. However, like metal roofing, wood shake does require maintenance in order to last for many years.
How to Know When to Replace Your Roof
There are things to look for to know when your roof needs replacement. Check your attic to see if there is any water damage. If you find areas that are damp or damaged by water, it is important to contact a roofer to see if your roof needs replacing as wood structures could begin to rot. If you are noticing mold near windows or chimneys, it is possible your roof needs repair or replacement. Of course, the most obvious sign that your roof needs repair or replacement is missing or broken shingles or areas where the underlayment is visible. Check for exposed nails near the soffit as this may also be a sign that your roof is having problems.
Don’t Delay a Roof Repair
If you begin seeing problems with your roof, it is important to address them as quickly as possible. Roof leaks can lead to significant damage inside your home and, although you may think a roof repair or replacement is too costly, if you wait too long, you will not only be paying for a roof repair but also to repair the interior of your home. A roof that is not working properly can also increase your energy costs, costing you even more in the long run. Keep in mind that the issue may need a simple repair and you may not need to replace your roof immediately, especially if your roof is less than 20 or 30 years old.
If you have noticed problems with your roof, contact RGB Construction today to see how we can help. Our team will conduct a thorough inspection to determine if a repair will resolve your problem or if you are in need of a new roof. Every technician is GAF Master Elite Certified, something that only 30 percent of roofing companies can claim! Contact us today by filling out the easy online form or give us a call at 856-264-9093.
