A roof plays an important role in protecting you and your family from the outside while keeping you warm, comfortable, and dry. Unfortunately, the roof doesn't last forever.
When your roof reaches or exceeds its expected life, it's time to consider replacing it. Stay vigilant to protect your home and its occupants while your roof continues to be exposed to hazardous weather conditions.
Most roofing experts assume that the typical roof in the US lasts 20-25 years, but not all roofs are designed equally. It is recommended that you perform regular inspections twice a year for potential problems.
Factor To Consider The Lifespan Of Roof
How long a roof lasts depends primarily on the type of roof you have and how well it has been maintained over the years. With proper care, it can last longer.
When properly installed, it can withstand damage from strong winds, salt spray, and UV rays. However, not everyone uses the same materials for their roofs, so replacement times may vary.
Other factors such as the color, orientation, and slope of a roof can also affect its lifespan of a roof. Dark-colored roofs tend to absorb more heat than light-colored roofs. People living in warmer climates with lots of sunlight may need to replace their roofs more often.
The sun's influence is greater, and the roof life is shortened. Also, consider the slope of the roof. High-pitched roofs tend to last longer because rain and snow don't sink easily.
Lifespan Of Different Types Of Roofs
Here are some general estimates regarding the lifespan of each type of roof:
Composite Shingles
Composite Shingles can be expected to last a little longer, with an average of 25 to 30 years.
Asphalt Shingles
Most asphalt shingle roofs last 15 to 20 years. This material is very popular because it is inexpensive and available in a variety of designs.
Wood Shingles
Wood shingles usually last 25-30 years. However, they need care that affects their life expectancy.
Metal Roofing/Tiles
The metal tiles or metal roofing material is 30 to 45 years.
Cedar Roofing
The average lifespan of a cedar roof is about 20 years. Cedar roofs are more prone to cracking and require more frequent repairs and replacements.
Concrete Roofing
Concrete roofs are durable and do not need to be replaced during their entire service life.
Rubber Roofing
The rubber roofing usually lasts 30-50 years.
Signs That You Need To Replace Your Roof
Even with an understanding of the quality and durability of the roofing material, the longevity of the roof still depends on the climate.
Rather than relying solely on the age and material of a roof, it is more important to inspect the roof frequently and look for potential signs that may require replacement.
However, there are signs you can recognize when you are at home. If you can any of these signs it means your roof needs to be replaced.
Sagging Roofline
The roofline should be straight and strong. If you see sagging, kinking, or visible sagging, it's important to find out the cause.
Sagginess may not seem like a major problem at first, but it can indicate that a roof leak is causing moisture in the ceiling and goes unnoticed.
This doesn't necessarily mean that you and your home are at immediate risk of a roof collapse, but it's an absolute must to change direction sooner than later.
If it has a smooth or damp cardboard-like consistency to the touch, it's most likely due to excess moisture from a leak. In this case, you may need a new roof to solve the problem.
Damaged From A Strom
The weather in the area where you live and the type of storm your roof faces will affect how much your roof wears and tears.
Hurricane damage is one of the leading causes of roof replacement.
This is because heavy rain, ice storms, concentrated storms, and tornadoes can cause significant damage to a roof, regardless of the condition before the storm.
But the weather isn't the only concern. This may seem obvious, but even severe hurricane damage (tornado, wind, hail) will lead to roof replacement.
This opens the roof against leaks and UV rays. When it rains or snows after a hurricane, moisture can quickly seep into the roof system and cause water damage.
Visible Holes & Leaks
One of the most common signs that a roof needs replacement is visible leaks and holes. Roof leaks can happen for several reasons, from aged materials to storm damage. When the roofing material loosens, water can seep through the roof and into the rest of the house.
This causes water to seep in and puddles are often seen during storms.
If you have large, persistent roof leaks or multiple leaks throughout your roof, it's time to consider replacing your roof. The best way to determine the extent of damage is to contact a professional roofing company.
Unwanted Plants & Molds
Moss can look great in a shady corner of your yard, but it's a problem on the roof. Moss indicates that moisture can build up inside and ruin your roof.
Use a stiff brush to remove moss build-up on the shaded corners of the roof but be careful to fix the underlying problem.
If you see green spots or dark black wet spots, your roof is nearing the end of its service life. Mold can damage your home, including internal leaks and lack of support.
Hiring a roofing specialist is a daunting task but it will save you a lot of stress as well as guarantee that you are getting the best service for your home.