When should I get a roof replacement?
A roof is rather important, wouldn’t you agree? It is the ultimate protector to your cozy; relaxing home and it therefore deserves your attention. Your roof may seem indestructible, but it is not. Every roof has a declared lifetime. The life expectancy of a roof is simply an educated guess; however, it does give a homeowner a general guideline as to when his/her roof may be wearing down. With that said, when should you expect to need a roof replacement?
Here are guidelines for roof life expectancy based on the type of roof:
- Asphalt Shingles: 20-30 years
- Wood Shingles: 25-35 years
- Metal Roof: 50-75 years
- Slate: 100+ years
Now, if you are a Wylie, TX homeowner then the asphalt shingle reference most likely applies to your roof. Asphalt is the most common roof type throughout the U.S. as it is both affordable and universal. The material can withstand heat, high winds, cold weather and hail damage (for the most part). Is it perfect against those threats? No, but its ability to withstand them gives homeowners good bang for their buck.
There are 365 days in a year and most of us live very busy lives in each of those 365 days. Thus, the life and well-being of your roof probably isn’t near the front of your mind. As you are reading this, think about how long it has been since your roof was installed. If you’ve had your asphalt shingle roof for at least 20 years then it’s a good idea to have it inspected.
It’s unlikely you’ll wake up one morning over the next 20 years and think “I may need to replace my roof”. However, if you get into a routine of having your roof inspected twice a year then you will be giving it the proper care. It is recommended to have a roof inspected once a year in the spring and once a year in the fall. The idea is to prep it for extreme summers and winters.
You don’t necessarily have to concern yourself with inspections in the early life of your roof, but it would be wise to start with routine inspections 10-15 years in for an asphalt roof. Otherwise, the only time you really need to pay specific attention to your roof is after a significant hail storm.
Signs of a potential roof replacement:
- Curling shingles
- Missing shingles
- Cracked shingles
- Granules in the gutter
- Sagging roof
- Molded shingles
- Leakages
If you are comfortable with it, you can climb to your rooftop and examine the roof on your own. This way you’ll have a look for yourself before contacting a professional roofing contractor. Just be sure to wear work boots or shoes that have reliable tread. Also, make use of a sturdy ladder. Safety first!
The direct impact of hail stones can dent your roof shingles. Dents will wear down the shingles and often times the granules from the shingles will roll down before getting stuck in the gutter. Hence, that is a common flaw to look out for throughout the spring/summer/fall months in Wylie, TX.
Obviously, a sagging and/or leaking roof are the most serious signs. If you notice either or both, seek the help of a roofing company IMMEDIATELY. Sagging and leaking are signals that your roof is about on its last breath. You will have to look closely for most blemishes, but it’s well worth it to climb atop your roof at least once a year on a nice sunny day to assess its condition.
So, to answer the question—how often should my home undergo roof replacement? —it depends on what type of roof you have and how your roof has been affected by the weather over the years. Use the life expectancy of your roof as a general guideline and have it inspected at least once a year after the 10-year mark.
Summit Roof
If you are interested in a roof inspection or if you feel it is time to have your roof replaced, contact Summit Roof Service Inc. at (972) 715-1655. We’ve been in the business of repairing and replacing roofs for over 25 years! To learn more about our company and general roofing, visit our website—Summit Roof Services Inc.—and visit our company blog and social media for additional details about roof replacement.