Roofs are an essential security feature protecting your household against burglars and harsh elements. Unfortunately, they are exposed to wear and tear, and their functionality deteriorates over years of use. At some point, you will have to replace your old roof to enjoy its full benefits. But before you do this, how long can you expect your roof to last?
What factors affect how long the average roof lasts?
Different features within and without your roof will directly impact how long it can stand the test of time. These include:
The quality of installation
The quality of the work that goes into roof installation affects its durability. If your contractor does a shoddy job, your roof will most likely not hold up too well. The slightest pressure can compromise its structural integrity and cause it to break apart.
The type of roofing material used
Roofs are made from different materials, such as asphalt shingle roofs or metal roofing systems. Each has a unique roof lifespan and will perform differently in individual situations. For instance, stone-coated steel tiles have an expected lifetime of up to 50 years, while asphalt shingle roofs only last between 15 and 20 years.
The climate of your area
The exposure to elements will also determine how fast your roofing material deteriorates over time. For instance, if you live in a region prone to storms and hurricanes, it’s only a matter of time before you have to repair or replace your entire roof.
The quality of maintenance
Finally, the quality of maintenance you give your roof is also a factor. If it’s properly cleaned and taken care of, you can easily extend its lifespan by several years compared to those wholly neglected.
How long does a roof last?
The expected lifetime for roofs can range between 15 and over 50 years. It all depends on how well you take care of it, as well as what kind of material your roofing contractor uses. However, this roof life expectancy will depend on where you live because climate plays a vital role in determining how long your roof will survive. For a clear perspective, here is what you can expect from different types of roofs:
Asphalt shingles-15-30 years
Cedar roof-15 years
Metal roof-20-50 years
Slate roof-100+ years
Clay tiles roof-100+ years
Concrete tiles roof-50+ years
How do you know when it’s time to replace the roof?
It is difficult to tell when exactly you should get a roof replacement, but here are some red flags that indicate an immediate need for action:
The color of your shingles has faded or turned black
The color of your shingles is the easiest indicator to tell if it’s time for a repair or replacement. If their color has faded or turned black, this shows they are deteriorating fast and need immediate attention.
There are missing tiles
Missing roof tiles result from several factors, including hail damage and tree branches during storms. Unfortunately, if you spot numerous missing tiles, this means that the entire roof is compromised and needs replacing as soon as possible.
Water starts seeping through
If water starts seeping through your ceiling during heavy rainfall, it’s time for a replacement. It could also mean holes within the roofing material, which will need roof repairs right away.
There are cracks on your ceiling
Cracks around your ceilings can either mean that something heavy fell on it or that there is a problem with its structure. If you see small cracks appearing even after light showers, this means they have weakened over time and need to be replaced.
Your roof is older than 20 years
If your roof is more than 20 years old, you should get it inspected by a professional. It could also mean that the shingles have been damaged beyond repair and need a roof replacement. Take preventative measures before things get worse!
It’s leaking
Your roof is considered to be in poor shape if it starts leaking during heavy rainfall. Roof leaks can happen for several reasons, but the most common issue would be water pooling up on your ceiling and causing damage over time.
There are visible signs of mold
If you see any black spotting or moss growing around your shingles, it means there is most likely a problem with your roof. There are several reasons for mold to grow on the surface of your shingles, including water pooling and lack of proper ventilation.
How can I prolong the life expectancy of my roof?
Regular roof maintenance
The best way to take care of any roof is by maintaining and cleaning it regularly. You can easily do this, but you need an expert contractor with the right equipment to help you out if there are problems with its structure or waterproofing materials.
Properly ventilate your roof
Proper ventilation is vital for any roof because it provides the right amount of airflow. If you notice several brown spots on top, this means they need a replacement immediately.
Replace roofing materials quickly when needed
When it comes to asphalt roofs, you need to replace the asphalt shingles when necessary. If you don’t, the entire roof will deteriorate quickly and need a complete replacement within weeks or months.
Use metal flashings for gutters
Roofs have several parts that help water drain off their surface, including chimneys, skylights, vents, and gutters. Installing metal flashings on them can help you keep your roof in prime condition for a long time!
Leave it to professionals
If you don’t have enough time or energy to take care of your roof, it’s best if you leave its maintenance to professional contractors. They will know precisely how to handle any problems on your roof for maximum durability.
Need roof services?
If you need roof repair in the Vancouver/Portland Metro area, please contact our customer care reps at Executive Roof Services. We have offered roofing services to residential and commercial customers for over a decade. Give us a call today or visit our website for more information.