As a homeowner, you might be wondering to yourself how well your roof can withstand the elements. While keeping it in top shape helps slow down the progression of wear and tear, there will come a time when you’ll eventually have it replaced. This begs the question: “how long will it last?” Read on as we discuss roof lifespan, including the signs you’re due to replace it and tips to extend its service life.
Varying Lifespans of Roofing Materials
The longevity of your roof will depend on a number of factors, including the local climate, the quality of its installation, and the maintenance you provide to ensure it remains intact. How long it will last, however, is influenced by the type of material your roof is made of.
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Asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingle roof lifespan is around 20 to 30 years, as long as it is well cared for and maintained.
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Metal panels. They have a significantly longer lifespan of at least 40 years. They can reach upwards of 70 years if proper maintenance is observed.
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Wood shakes. Their lifespan is between 20 and 40 years, but it is usually dependent on the climate, quality of the material, and the type of wood used.
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Tiles. Clay and concrete tiles can last up to 50 years or more, thanks to their durability and insect and fire resistance.
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Slate. This heavy roofing material comes at a premium price, but it more than makes up for its longevity, reaching up to century.
Signs You Need Roof Replacement
At some point, you’ll notice signs telling you that it’s time to invest in a new roof. These include:
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Age. You’ll want to consider replacing your roof if it is approaching or has already surpassed its expected lifespan. Have your roofer inspect it to determine its age.
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Roof damage. Extensive damage to the roofing materials are clear indications that your roof is in need of immediate attention.
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Water damage. Noticeable sagging on the roof surface, water stains on the ceilings and walls, and mold growth mean your roof has been suffering from leaks for a long time, necessitating a replacement.
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Granule loss. Asphalt shingles have a protective granular coating that protects your home from the sun’s UV rays. If you find huge amounts of these gritty material in your gutters or have noticed “bald” spots on a large part of your roof, it means the shingles have worn down significantly and are in need of replacement.
How to Extend Your Roof’s Lifespan
The good news is that there are ways you can maximize the longevity of your roof. Investing in regular inspections allows you to identify potential problems and address them right away, eliminating the possibility of an early roof replacement. Keeping it well-ventilated through adequate intake and exhaust vents helps prevent buildup of excess heat and moisture inside the attic, protecting your roof from deteriorating prematurely.
Of course, clearing your gutters of any debris stops water runoff from backing up and damaging the roof’s structural integrity. Tree branches must be trimmed back as well to keep them from scraping against the roof surface and causing damage during severe weather.
Count on Bone Dry Roofing!
Exposure to the elements can take a toll on your roof. However, that doesn’t mean you proceed with replacing it outright. Bone Dry Roofing Fort Wayne in Indiana offers maintenance programs that help your roof stay intact and in top shape year-round over its lifespan. It all starts with a full inspection and evaluation of your roof’s current condition, along with recommendations for any immediate repairs. Our team will then set up a scheduled maintenance calendar that meets your annual budget needs while addressing the critical issues of roof integrity and ongoing performance.
To learn more, give us a call at 260.267.6189, or fill out our contact form for an estimate.
