Roofing materials vary wildly in their expected longevity, cost, and visual appeal, and knowing when to replace your roof is an essential part of keeping your home in habitable and happy condition.
Here are a few details to remember about roofing and how to tell whether you need a new roof on your house.
How Long Do Roofing Materials Last?
Some roofing materials can last for centuries, and a trip around the world might show you roofs that have been in existence since the Renaissance.
For modern roofs, some can last more than 50 years, but other roofs may only last a few decades. U.S. News & World Report shares:
“Slate, copper, and tile roofs can last more than 50 years. Homeowners with wood shake roofs should expect them to last about 30 years.”
Meanwhile, fiber cement shingles may last for around a quarter of a century, and asphalt shingles should last for about two decades. Accordingly, roofing types that last twenty years will usually cost less than roofing options that are supposed to last around a half century.
The region where you live and the average intensity of the weather can play a significant role in how long your roof lasts, but the climate isn’t the only factor that may influence longevity.
Signs You Need a New Roof
Sometimes it’s easy to tell that your roof is in need of attention, repair, or replacement because there are loads of loose shingles, or the roof just looks like it went through a hurricane. Other roofs might appear like they’re a little worn, but their appearance might not immediately suggest it’s time to replace.
According to an article on Angi, most homeowners don’t even realize they need a new roof until they see a leak.
“Most homeowners figure they need a new roof after they spot a leak in their ceiling. This leak could be due to many different roofing problems. But, what factors really determine whether a roof repair will solve the problem or the house needs a roof replacement?”
The age of the roof is usually the most obvious factor when it comes to determining whether you need to replace or repair. An asphalt roof that’s 30 years old probably needs some serious attention. On the other hand, a roof that’s just a decade old probably won’t need repair unless the home hasn’t been maintained or it’s experienced a natural disaster.
Other factors that indicate you need a new roof include:
- Materials from the roof have started to clog the gutters.
- Shingles or portions of the roof are visibly damaged.
- Water can penetrate the attic or ceiling when it rains.
- The flashing is starting to slip (the metal sheets around the chimney).
Tip: If you know what to look for, it’s easy to perform a quick, visual inspection of your roof from the ground level.
Caring for Your Roof Extends Its Lifespan
It should come as no surprise that caring for a roof is the best way to make it last as long – or longer – than what you expect. You might know that a fiber cement roof might last for around 25 years and that an asphalt shingle roof will probably last about 20 years.
However, poor care and lack of maintenance may doom a roof in as little as ten years. A roof is a significant investment for most homeowners, so it makes sense to understand how to maximize the lifespan of your roof.
Get a New Roof or Exterior Remodeling Update from Gettum Associates, Inc.
We’re a full-service home remodeling company that can help you with every facet of your project, from design and planning to execution and completion. Let us bring our expertise in design and remodeling to help you create a dramatic and beautiful exterior for your home.
Call us at 1-317-888-5681 for more information on our services, as well as to discuss your home remodeling project and how we can help.
Plus, if you’re ready to get started on an exterior renovation project, you’ll want to download our guide: Seven Questions to Ask When Choosing an Exterior Remodeler in the Indianapolis Area.
