At some point in time, homeowners begin to wonder when to replace the roof over their heads.
As an essential component of the home — one that keeps it and everything beneath it structurally safe — it’s important to know when you need to have it replaced. Otherwise, you can be looking at an inconvenient or dangerous situation.
Fortunately, the need for a roof replacement isn’t something that occurs often. Consider this your quick and easy guide to knowing when it’s time for a roof replacement.
When to Replace Your Roof
How often you’ll need to replace your roof will depend on the materials your existing roof is made from.
The asphalt roof is the most common type of roofing system. When it comes to the life expectancy of asphalt shingles, their lifespans will vary based on type:
- 3-tab asphalt shingles should last between 15 and 20 years
- Architectural (or structural) shingles are designed to last up to 30 years
The more premium roofing materials will last longer. For example:
- Metal roofing systems will last upwards of 70 years
- Cedar shakes and shingles can last up to 60 years
- A slate tile roof will last anywhere between 50 and 200 years
- Clay tile roofing will last between 50 and 100 years
The general rule of thumb regarding when to replace roof systems is to follow the time frame provided by the roofing material manufacturer (for the materials) and your roofing contractor based on their installation practices.
So, if you have a traditional asphalt roof, you can expect to need a replacement every 20 years or so. The other materials will vary based on the manufacturer.
How to Know It’s Time For a Roof Replacement
Unfortunately, not all roofs will age gracefully — especially here in Wisconsin, where tornadoes are expected, as are extreme winters. Therefore, it’s important to keep an eye out for the signs that you may need a new roof sooner than later.
Here’s how you’ll know it’s time to say goodbye to your old roof:
- There has been too much damage. Eventually, your roof will get to a point where repairs are only making it weaker while costing more long-term. If you find that you’re making frequent repairs, whether it be from an aging roof or from storm damage, you’ll want to consider a replacement.
- You’re planning to move soon. If you’ve lived in your home for at least 10 years and you’re planning to sell within the next few years, it’s a good idea to consider a roof replacement if you don’t have any other major repairs to make. Having your roof replaced before selling will increase your curb appeal as well as your asking price. Potential buyers will be much more interested — and willing to pay more — for a home with a roof they won’t have to replace or repair anytime soon.
- Your neighbors are replacing their roofs. In most cases, neighborhood homes and communities are built at the same time. This means all of the roofs on your block should be about the same age. So, if you see that your neighbors are starting to replace their roofs, it’s a good idea to get in touch with your local roofing company for an inspection to see if it’s time for a new roof.
How Much Damage Is Too Much?
As mentioned above, your current roof may get to a point where continuing repairs won’t make much of a difference. This can happen due to regular aging and wear and tear or from continuing damage that isn’t repaired properly.
For starters, it’s necessary to have your roof inspected at least once per year and after major storms to check for:
- Algae, mold, mildew, or lichen growth
- Granule loss
- Blistering, bubbling, cracked, or curling shingles
- Missing shingles and noticeable bald spots
- Rotting or buckling shingles
- Damaged or rusted roof flashing
When neglected, all of the above can lead to:
- Leaks and water stains on ceilings and walls
- Light shining through your attic
- Rotting wood in your roof deck, attic, or access space
- Pest infestations
- A sagging roofline
- Ponding water and sagging
- A sudden increase in your energy bill
If you begin to notice the above signs of roof damage or find that you need to schedule frequent, costly repairs, it’s likely that your roofing system is nearing its end. An aging roof that has seen significant damage will only continue to see more damage, leading you to spend more money than it’s worth on repairs.
How Is Your Roofing Holding Up?
If you can’t remember the last time you had your roof inspected by a professional, you’ll want to take the time to schedule an inspection as soon as possible.
First American Roofing & Siding can offer you detailed roof inspections and a free estimate for a new roof. Get in touch with us today to schedule your next roof inspection so we can guide you through the next steps to keep your home and everything in it safe and sound.
