How Often Does a Roof Need to be Replaced?
May 23, 2021
Are you wondering, how often does a roof need to be replaced? Determining when exactly you need a replacement depends on a lot of factors.
HOW OFTEN DOES A ROOF NEED TO BE REPLACED?
Are you wondering how often does a roof need to be replaced? The lifespan of your roof is dependent on many of factors, including:
- what kind of roofing materials were used on your structure
- how well you maintain your roof
- the climate you are located in
- if you currently have unattended damage to your roof
Regardless, we have all the answers you’re looking for.
We’ll start by explaining how long your roof should last on average, depending on the materials used. Then we’ll go over the various factors that can affect your roof’s lifespan and what they mean for you.
If at any point you would like to seek our advice or services, please, call us directly at 248-462-0224.
AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF A ROOF
The different types of roofs have different lifespans. So, we’ll start by listing our estimates of average roof lifespans based on the roofing material used.
ASPHALT SHINGLES
Under normal circumstances, 3-tab asphalt shingle roofs should last 15-20 years before needing replacement. However, architectural asphalt shingle roofs are a bit more resilient to the elements due to their design. These may last up to 10 years longer than 3-tab asphalt shingle roofs.
How often does a roof need to be replaced?
CLAY/CEMENT TILE ROOFING
Clay/concrete tile roofing is one of the hardiest roofing options there is. Not only are the tiles very resilient, but they’re also heavy. These tiles are installed on top of extra-sturdy roofing reinforcement, which means even more protection for your home.
For these reasons, tile roofing is highly durable and will last from 50 to even 100 years.
SLATE ROOFING
Slate is by far the most durable roof you can buy. In most cases, it will last 100 years or longer.
WOOD SHINGLES
Wood shingles usually last 25-30 years. But they require maintenance, which affects their lifespan.
For example, if you don’t keep the roof clear of leaves and moss growth, they trap moisture against the roofing, encouraging decay. But, if you keep up on the necessary maintenance, you might get 50 or so years out of your wood shingle roof.
Wood roofing is also particularly susceptible to damage by fire. Thus, it is hazardous and illegal to install in specific locations as it can quickly go up in flames.
WOOD SHAKES
Since wood shakes are thicker than shingles, they’re more resistant to factors like UV rays and harsh weather. These roofs should last for 35-40 years.
But, again, maintenance is a factor. How well you maintain a wood-shake roof determines how long it lasts.
METAL ROOFING
Metal roofing is another very resilient roofing choice. Standard metal roofing materials, like steel and aluminum, should last 50 years before needing replacement. Other metal roofing, like zinc and copper, can last 100 years or more.
When Do I Need a New Roof?
Here are some of the tell-tale signs that it is time to call Grennan Construction to talk about a new roof:
- Leakage in attic after wind-driven rain
Possible causes: Leaky or inadequate shingle underlayment or deteriorated flashing
- Leakage in attic after ice build-up
Possible causes: Inadequate shingle underlayment or inadequate attic ventilation
- Blistering and peeling of interior or exterior paint
Possible causes: Excessive temperature or high humidity due to inadequate attic ventilation
- Stains on interior ceilings and walls or mold and mildew growth
Possible reasons: Inadequate or faulty shingle underlayment allowing leakage or inadequate attic ventilation
- Decay of roof shingles, sheathing, or siding
Likely cause: Inadequate attic ventilation
- Missing, cracked, or curled shingles
Possible cause: Shingles have reached the end of their useful life
- Dark, “dirty-looking” areas on your roof
Possible causes: Environmental pollutants; vegetation, fungus, or algae; loss of granules due to age of shingles
- High energy costs
Possible cause: Insufficient attic ventilation
In warm weather, inadequate ventilation will trap hot air in the attic, causing air conditioning systems to work harder, or leaving your home’s interior hotter and less comfortable. In both hot and cold weather, insufficient attic ventilation may cause moisture in the attic to become trapped and condense on the rafters. This condensed moisture can drip down onto the insulation and reduce its effectiveness. High energy costs can result.
HOW OFTEN DOES A ROOF NEED TO BE REPLACED?
Based on the information in this guide, you should now know approximately how often to replace your roof. Just look up the average lifespan based on the roofing material in the list above. Then, look for the listed signs of damage on your roof.
Of course, you’ll still need to know the age of your roof for this information to be relevant. Thus, you may yet have more questions.
Are you still wondering how often you should replace your roof? If so, contact us to set up your free roof inspection.
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