There is no question that your roof is an important part of your home’s exterior. Not only does it keep the elements outside your home, but it is also a critical part of its energy efficiency. In addition, when it is time to sell, your roof will be important to your home’s curb appeal. Buyers want to see a beautiful, intact roof, not one with missing shingles or bare spots. RGB Construction believes that understanding the lifespan of your roof can help you determine if it can simply be repaired when it has a problem or if it is time to look into a replacement.
Asphalt Roofing
If your roof has asphalt shingles, as many homes in New Jersey have, its lifespan will depend on the quality of the shingles and their installation. Architectural shingles will last between 25 and 30 years on average while standard three-tab asphalt shingles will last between 12 and 20 years. There are some shingle manufacturers who guarantee their shingles for up to 50 years while others offer lifetime warranties. Keep in mind you will want to have those shingles installed by certified roofers as an incorrect installation could void your warranty.
Metal Roofing
Because it is available in a wide range of colors and styles, metal roofing is growing in popularity in New Jersey. Most metal roofing is made from multiple metals and is highly recommended in areas without much tree cover as they reflect heat. Keep in mind that metal roofing requires routine maintenance, or it will not last its entire lifespan. A metal roof can last up to 25 years while some types offer a lifetime warranty. Again, it is important to have the roofing installed by a qualified roofer in order to protect the warranty.
Slate or Tile Roofing
Some homeowners love the unique look of slate or tile roofing, although they are not as common in New Jersey. Slate and tile also reflect the sun’s heat, keeping your home cooler. However, they are also more expensive, and you may need to reinforce walls as the roof will be significantly heavier than other types of roofing materials. Tile is also susceptible to cracking from tree limbs or other objects that may fall on them. Tile roofing lasts for up to 125 years while slate lasts up to 100 years if maintained and installed properly.
Wood Shake Roofing
A popular roofing material in the past, the wood shake is making a comeback in home design. Because each wood shake is cut by hand, every roof that uses them is unique. Usually, the wood shake is made of cedar although they are available in other woods as well. Of all the roofing materials, wood shake requires the most maintenance but if it is taken care of properly, a wood shake roof can last more than 100 years.
How Your Roof Lifespan Could be Shortened
There are several things that could cause your roof to need replacement sooner. When choosing materials, be sure to choose high-quality options. Even though a lower-priced shingle may save you money now, they may not last as long which means you will be replacing them much earlier. You also want to be sure your contractor uses the right sheathing and felt to extend the life of your roof.
Roofing materials that are not installed properly will also shorten your roof’s lifespan. Nails should be driven through the reinforced strips on asphalt shingle, or they could be easily damaged by wind, for example. Keep in mind that areas of New Jersey deal with high winds as well as extreme heat and cold, so be sure to inspect your roof for damage regularly. Your roof pitch, valleys, and facets can also have an impact on how long your roof lasts.
How to Protect Your Roof
The best way to protect your roof is to inspect it regularly. Although you can do the inspection yourself, it is usually better to have a certified roofing company come out and do an inspection every few years. A roofing company can suggest routine maintenance that will help your roof lasts as long as possible. Be sure to clean your gutters regularly. Gutters that fill with debris can create what are known as ice dams in the winter which can lead to roof damage as water cannot drain away from your home.
If possible, invest in gutter guards or foam inserts that will help you keep debris out of your gutters. If your home is surrounded by shade trees, check for moss growth on your roof as these can grow several inches thick, damaging not only your shingles but also the underlayment of your roof. Keep trees trimmed back away from the roof as much as possible to avoid damage during storms.
Get a New Roof from RGB Construction
If your roof is reaching the end of its lifespan or if you have noticed problems with it, whether it is missing shingles, leaks, or higher than normal energy bills, contact RGB Construction to learn how we can help. You can arrange for a no-obligation consultation with a technician who is GAF certified, a qualification only 30 percent of all roofing companies can claim. This means we only use the highest quality materials and that our technicians have been extensively trained. Arrange for your appointment by filling out the easy form online or give us a call at 856-264-9093.
