Being a homeowner comes with a lot of responsibility. One of those responsibilities and probably the
most expensive is replacing your roof. Being that your roof protects you from the elements, this is a
pretty important responsibility.
When knowing on when to replace your roof, there is factors that come in to play. They are the quality
of the roofs installation, the quality of the materials that were previously installed and the type of roof
on your home. Different roof materials have different life expectancies.
Composition shingles: 15-20 years
Asphalt Shingles: 15-30 years
Wood Shingles: 30-40 years
Rubber Roofs: 30-50 years
Metal Roofs: 40-70 years
Clay Tile Roofs: 50-100 years
Slate Tile Roofs: 75-200 years
Rough winters and high humidity can possibly cause these materials to wear faster. Having your roof
inspected after high winds or strong storms can help keep your roof in good shape. At least once a year
inspection should be conducted by a trained roofing contractor. The trained contractor will inspect your
roof and could possibly help you find any damage before it becomes a big problem.
There are a few things to look for that can tell you that your roof is no longer at its best, and any one
sign doesn’t necessarily mean it is time to replace your roof but it is an indicator that you could have
some damage that needs to be taken care of.
Loose, missing, damaged or cracked shingles are very detrimental to your roof. These can lead to water
damage from leaks. If there are several damaged shingles and exposed nails, patching your roof may
not be the way to go, and you should have a full replacement.
Signs of water damage, mold or rot are also a good sign you need to have your roof replaced. Roof
decking that is wet will lead to wood rot and can cause other issues within the home. A sign you have
any wood damage is looked at inside the attic. If there is dark spots, any discoloration, has a damp or
musty smell more than likely you have some wood damage.
A roofing contractor can determine if there is wood rot by walking in the area above the wood rot and
noticing that it gives a little bit more than it does in a defend spot on the roof. If you feel that you have
some wood rot, contact a roofing contractor. Here are some signs of water damage to be on the
lookout for:
Fungal and mold growth. This can reduce air quality in the home.
Any bulging or bowing which is visible from the outside of the home. The shingles in this area of the
roof are probably not working as they should and the roof decking could cave in.
Any damage to the wood in your home and this can include structural wood.
Any wet or damaged insulation. Not having the proper insulation in your attic can cause increases in
your heating and cooling costs.
Damaged flashing can also cause leaking. Flashing can be made of sheet metal, galvanized steel or
aluminum. You can find the flashing around chimneys, plumbing vents, and skylights. When flashings
work properly they help divert any rain water to the ground. When flashing fails, there are noticeable
signs such as
Cracks and dents. Your flashing is more prone to rust.
If your flashing has any rust on it, it will need to be cleaned or replaced.
If any flashing is missing, this will need to be replaced as soon as possible.
Any holes in your flashing. This is sometimes created by animals and should be sealed as soon as you
notice them.
If flashing was not installed properly, you will notice some mold or water stains on your fascia.
A roofing contractor who is inspecting your roof will also look at your flashings and any loose nails or
broken seals on the edges of your flashing.
Basically, if your roof is 20 years or older, you may want to consider calling your roofing contractor and
have an inspection. Roofs typically will last 20 years and you are reaching the life span.
If you are considering selling your home, installing a new roof will add value to the home. You may not
recoup any of the cost but it will help and will more than likely get the full asking price and shorter
negotiations.
