It’s hard to tell when you need to replace your roof. For one, it doesn’t come with an end date. Most household systems have a lifespan. Wooden doors last about 20 years. Vinyl tiles last less than that. Meanwhile, ceramic tiles have often been good for about seven decades.
Roofs don’t age the same way as other materials. They’re exposed to harsh conditions but some materials are more durable than others. It’s also hard to see signs of deterioration since roofs are inaccessible. Many homeowners also don’t know the signs that a roof needs repair or replacement.
You’re in luck though. We have the experience and research to know when to replace roof. We’ll share our knowledge with you. And all you need to do now is watch out for the signs that you need a roof replacement.
Your Roof is More Than a Decade-Old
Think about when the roofing installation happened. The age of the roof and what it’s made of can tell you if it’s time for a new one. Most roofs last for more than 10 years based on the material. Here’s a breakdown of materials and their lifespan:
- Asphalt shingles: 15 to 30 years
- Clay tile roofs: 50 to 100 years
- Composition shingles: 12 to 20 years
- Metal roofs: 40 to 70 years
- Rubber roofs: 30 to 50 years
- Slate tile roof: 75 to 200 years
- Wood shingles: 30 to 40 years
These materials can wear down faster if exposed to severe humidity and harsh winters. It’s why you should try and have an expert check your roof after a storm. It’s also a good idea to have a roofing contractor inspect the roofing system once a year.
You Can See Daylight
Seeing sunlight from under the roof boards is a sure sign you need a roof replacement. It’s a good idea to go to the attic and check the roof deck. Look for streams of daylight coming through the boards. If light can come through, then so can water.
There are Gaps in the Shingles
Gaps in the roof mean you have missing shingles or tiles. A few missing tiles could mean a roof repair is in order. But a lot of gaps in the roof could mean it’s time to replace it.
Homeowners should inspect the roofing system after a hailstorm or strong winds. They should also check if they went through an ice dam. They should look for cracked or damaged shingles.
You Can See Granules in the Gutter
When was the last time you cleaned your home’s gutter? If you can’t remember, then you should put that task down on your to-do list. You should clean gutters at least twice a year. A clogged gutter can hinder the drainage of rainwater. It can also damage the roofing system.
You can also tell if it’s time for a roofing replacement by checking the gutter. Look for granules when you clean it out. These little debris are the crushed stone or material found on top of the shingles. These granules are there to protect shingles from the sun. Finding them in your gutter means the shingles are deteriorating. This is especially true if the roof is over a decade old.
It sometimes happens that you’ll see granules after a new roofing installation. Don’t worry about it. It’s normal and will disappear over time.
Curling Shingles are Not a Good Sign
Roof inspectors often look for curling on the shingles. This is often seen at the edges and called cupping. Clawing refers to shingles that curl in the middle. Whatever they’re called, curling is a sign that the shingles are now warped. This makes the roof susceptible to leaks. Water leaks can damage the walls, ceiling, beams, and joists.
Curling often means you need to replace your roof in a few years. A roofing expert can confirm that for you.
Transform Your Property with Premium RoofingA solid roofing system can add value to your property. You can have that with A Affordable Roofing. We’re one of the best roofing companies in Texas. We offer customized roofing solutions to meet your needs. We’re licensed and have been in the business for over a decade. We guarantee excellent workmanship at the best possible price. We specialize in residential and commercial roofing systems. Our services include roof inspection and repair. We also do roofing replacement and attic insulation. Give us a ring at 832-299-3024. You can also request a free estimate here.
