How Often Should I Replace My Roof?
Your new roof provides a strong defense against all the hazardous weather conditions. However, it does have a limited lifespan during which it will be at its best. Roof longevity usually depends on the type of materials and unexpected weather conditions it faces.
Let’s have a look at the factors in detail that can lead to roof replacement:
Life of a Roof
Since different kinds of roofs have a different lifespan, how often you should replace your roof highly depends on the type of roof you own. It also depends on how well you maintained it over the years.
If your roof is asphalt shingles, it may last for an estimated fifteen to twenty to years. However, architectural asphalt shingles may last a bit longer, usually at an average of twenty-five to thirty years. If your roof has metal roofing materials, it may last for thirty to forty-five years. A roof with concrete tiles typically survives for about thirty to fifty years.
Color, Slope, and Orientation of the Roof
Other factors like the color, slope, and orientation of your roof also affect its longevity. Darker-colored roofs, for instance, tend to absorb more heat as compared to lighter-colored ones, breaking down the roofing materials faster. Because of this, if you are living in a hot climate, you may need to replace the roof more often.
Moreover, if your roof slopes towards the south, the sun will have a more significant impact on its condition, reducing the longevity of the roof. You must also consider the pitch of your roof. Roofs with a steep pitch typically last longer as snow cannot settle on them as easily.
Weather-Based
Differences in weather have a major impact on how long your roof lasts. If you live in an area that undergoes wide temperature fluxes regularly, your roof will likely have a shorter lifespan. UV radiation and heat exposure can shorten the life expectancy of a roof.
Poor Maintenance
The following maintenance issues can indicate the need for a new roof:
Gutters System
The health of a roof’s gutter system tells you a lot about its condition. Gutters are created to transfer rainwater from your roof to an area away from your house’s groundings. When you find any granules or grains in the gutters, they can indicate a problem with your roof. These grains are usually pieces of shingles that break apart and gather in your gutters. If there are a large amount of those granules, it can indicate significant roof damage, and it may be time for roof replacement.
Worn Shingles
Damaged roof shingles are bad news. Factors like an aging roof, water damage, and strong winds may wear down shingles. If they are broken, replacement may be the next step.
Roof Bowing
To keep your home safe from any severe damages, you must have a robust roof above it. All of the roof components should be in the right place; none of them should be missing.
Roof bowing is a sign that those components may be damaged. If that damage is not remedied on time, any excess load, such as debris or snow, could potentially cause a roof breakdown.
Roof Leaks
Roof leaks can also be an indication it is time for a roof replacement. Leaks usually occur when damaged shingles allow water to travel through the cracks. Remember that even if you do not see water leaking into your attic, a leak may still be present. Often, their location is hidden from plain view.
Delay in Repairs
If roof damage and the problems mentioned above are not inspected and repaired on time, they could result in hazardous consequences. Neglecting those red flags can be too damaging. If its roof is impaired, your property value can also fall down. Undoubtedly, the cost of repairs will highly increase, the longer you let your roof stay untouched. You do not want to risk the lives of the professionals who come to belatedly work on it, either.
So, how often should you replace your roof? There is not a simple answer to that question. When you consider replacement, it is essential to take a look at all factors involved, including condition, age, and maintenance frequency. You must pay attention also to the signs that indicate damage.
To know more about the experts at replacement, or to book a free consultation with the professionals in Frederick, MD, contact DC Generals here.