How Long Does a Roof Last? 5 Warning Signs
How Often Should You Replace Your Roof?
Regardless of the durability of the materials used in constructing your roof, the typical lifespan generally falls between 20 to 30 years (though a new roof may exceed this). Over time, your roof will inevitably succumb to the effects of weather, aging, and daily use. So, how long can you enjoy your roof before you start contemplating a replacement? Understanding the replacement timeline will aid you in budgeting for a new roof when necessary. This article provides crucial insights into the longevity of your roof, along with key warning signs that indicate it's time for a replacement.
How Long Does a Roof Last Based On The Roofing Material?
How often you should replace your roof can depend on the roofing material as well as the installation practices of the contractor that you choose. The different kinds of material used in making your roof will determine how long it will last before you need a replacement. We will review the 3 most common types, asphalt shingle roofs, metal roofs, and rubber roofs.
How Long Does an Asphalt Shingle Roof Last?
+20 years ago, asphalt shingles typically lasted between 15 to 30 years before there were any need to replace them. The most common type of asphalt shingles are 3-tab and architectural shingles. The 3-tab shingle will serve you for up to 20 years before they give way to weather and natural wear and tear. However, the preferred architectural shingles are known to last longer. They can have up to 10 years more durability. With the advances in technology and build quality, shingles are lasting longer and manufactures are offering longer warranties. GAF offers a Lifetime Warranty (50 years) for there shingles. Owens Corning also has a 50 year warranty, and there are others.
The manufacturers can offer a lifetime warranty on their shingles because they trust the quality of the product that they are producing, as well as the quality of the installation performed by the certified roofing companies. The installation practice matters! Only factory trained and certified installers can offer lifetime warranties to their customers. It’s important to understand that the manufactures do not produce shingles, they produce roofing systems. In a roofing system there are multiple components designed to work with each other. Its very import that the roofing company performing the installation, knows which materials to use and the logistics behind how they are fitted
How Long Does a Metal Roof Last?
Metals are some of the most long-lasting roofing materials. They typically last about 50 years before they will need a replacement. Metal roofs made of aluminum/zinc materials can give you 50 years of longevity before there is a need for replacement. Copper/zinc, which usually last longer, can stay for up to +70 years before there will be a need for replacement.
How Long Does a Rubber Roof Last?
EPDM rubber roofs are also long-lasting because they are made of durable material. They can withstand extreme weather conditions like heavy rains and wind. You can get up to 50 years of usage before there will be any need to replace your rubber roof. Keep in mind, this type of roof really needs to be installed correctly. EDPM roofing is a science and we have seen poorly installed rubber roofs last only 2 years.
5 Warning Signs That You Need To Replace Your Roof
No matter what material your roof is made of, it will give in to weather and time. There are signs that inform you it is time to replace your roof. Some of them include:
Worn Out, Cracked, or Missing Shingles
Cracked shingles are indications that your roof needs to be replaced. If some shingles are missing, then it's obviously time to get a new set of shingles. Missing shingles can let moisture seep into the underboard and ceiling of your roof and create more damage.
Shingle Shedding Its Granules (Shingle Bleed)
When you see your shingles “bleed,” it’s the granules separating from the shingle and running down the roof of the house. This occurs when the shingle starts to break down over time. When your 3-tab or architectural shingle begins to shed its granules, the structural integrity of that roof is compromised. It is a sign that you need to replace the roof to avoid more damage.
Moss Growth on Roof
There should never be algae or moss growing on your roof. When you have excessive moisture within the shingles, these organisms will grow. Thick layers of moss will trap moisture and damage your shingles in the winter months. This is an indication that your roof is in a bad shape and needs to be replaced. Moss growth on the roof can be addressed with maintenance and cleaning with a stiff brush. However, this cannot fully address the underlying moisture problem.
Roof Is Sagging
You may notice large divots in the roof as if a section of the roof is sagging. Roof sag can be due to a variety of things, such as excessive weight from snow and ice, improper construction design, or sheathing that is rotting away. When you see sagging, it's time to take action .A sagging roof should be replaced promptly to avoid further damage.
Ceiling Rot or Moisture Spots in the Attic
Watch out for broken and rotten spots in your ceiling and uneven surfaces indicating the presence of long-term moisture. A roof in this condition needs to be replaced immediately.
Conclusion
A roof's basic function is to keep you safe, warm, and dry. If you have a leak, your roof needs attention. It might be an easy fix, where a localized repair will do the job. Most of the time a leak occurs when the roofing system is near the end of its life. Most roofs will last between 20 to 30 years, but there will come a time where a replacement makes more sense over a repair. When moss begins to grow on your roof, your ceiling begins to rot and display moisture spots, or your roof begins to sag, then it is time to replace it. If you see your shingles begin to shed their granules or become cracked or even missing altogether, then it is time for you to get a new roof.
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