How Often Does a Roof Need to Be Replaced?
How much time do you spend thinking about your home’s roof? Chances are that if it’s working as it should be, you don’t put much thought into your roof's condition.
If you’re like millions of Americans, it’s typically only when a strong storm pulls up a few shingles or there’s a serious leak that you think about the condition of your roof. But the truth is that we could all benefit from spending a little more time thinking about the state of our roofs, as keeping up with minor roof maintenance can help your roof perform better and last longer.
But how can you tell when your roof finally needs to be replaced entirely? In this post from Powers Premier Contracting in Minnesota, we’ll share some signs that your roof needs to be replaced, and be sure to give us a call to schedule your next roof replacement!
Should You Repair or Replace Your Roof?
A well-maintained roof may last for several decades. When considering roof replacement, it’s better to think about roof condition rather than age. Once roof maintenance or repair costs become too high, it’s time to start considering roof replacement as a more cost-effective solution.
If you’re unsure if your roof needs to be repaired or replaced, a roofing contractor can inspect the condition of your roof and make a professional recommendation.
Average Lifespans of Different Roofing Materials
Lifespans of roofing materials can vary depending on proper installation and regular maintenance, as well as the quality and warranty of the product. Here are the most common roofing materials:
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most popular and economical of roofing materials. The life expectancy of standard asphalt shingles is between 20-40 years, but longevity depends on maintenance, manufacturer, and warranties.
Wooden Shake or Shingles
Generally made from pine, cypress, redwood, or cedar, wood shakes and shingles can be treated to be fire-resistant, prevent decay and rot, and deter insects. Because of added moisture in the weather, it may need some periodic maintenance, such as applying treatments to protect against moisture. The lifespan of wooden shakes or shingles could be as long as 30-50 years.
Metal Roofing
There are a variety of metals available. Steel and aluminum are the most common, followed by zinc and copper, with the latter being the most expensive. The strongest selling point for metal roofs is that they’re virtually maintenance-free and can last around 50-70 years, if not longer.
Slate Roofing
This is the most expensive and durable of all roofing materials—but it is water-resistant, fire-resistant, and incredibly environmentally friendly. Properly maintained, it can potentially last the lifetime of your home—even if it’s a century or more.
How to Conduct a Roof Assessment
Here are a few things we look for when determining if your roof needs to be replaced:
1. Assess the Condition of the Attic
Evaluating the condition of your roof from within the attic can be highly beneficial. We’ll look for signs that your roof may be leaking, including damaged insulation and wood within your attic. We’ll also assess your attic for drafts and light filtering in where it should not be.
While in your attic, we can also assess the condition of your insulation, which plays a key role in maintaining your home’s thermal barrier and preventing ice dams that can cause roof damage.
2. Evaluate the Condition of the Flashing and Seals
When you think about the condition of your roof, it’s also important to assess its seals and flashing. Your flashing and chimney seals around vents and skylights must be completely watertight.
A professional roof repair contractor can assess the seals on your roof to ensure there is no damage or potential for leaks or recommend an upgrade to your flashing.
3. Evaluate your Roof’s Appearance
Even if your roof seems to be keeping up with the demands of weather and sun, it may be time to replace it simply because it has lost its attractiveness over the years. Over time, a roof can develop bald spots that not only are unattractive but also pose a potential threat to the structural integrity of your roof.
Replacing your old roof with a new one can change the look of your home and add value, increasing your home’s energy savings at the same time.
4. Check for Shingle Damage
Significant problems with your shingles are one of the most obvious signs that your roof needs to be replaced. Ideally, your shingles will be lying completely flat against your roof. The underlying roof structure may be compromised if they’re raised, buckling, or missing.
Shingles in your yard, granules in your gutters, or granules in your downspouts also signify serious roof damage. The extent of the damage and the cost of repair will help to determine whether your roof needs to simply be repaired or completely replaced.
5. Gutter Damage
First, check for debris or standing water. Also, inspect that gutters do not have cracks or holes. This is easily done by running water from a garden hose into the gutter. Be sure downspouts are not clogged. Lastly, be sure the gutters are not sagging.
Other Reasons to Replace Your Roof
Even if your roof doesn’t need to be replaced due to structural problems, there are other benefits to replacing your roof.
Change the Aesthetics to Boost Curb Appeal
Replacing your roof can completely transform the look of your home. If you’re thinking of placing your home on the market or other homes in your neighborhood are getting new roofs, consider replacing your old shingles with architectural ones.
Architectural shingles are attractive, dimensional roofing shingles that come in a wide range of styles and colors for almost any architectural style. If you’re not sure where to begin, a professional residential roofer can recommend an architectural shingle for your replacement roof.
Here are a few more great reasons to replace your roof:
- Reduce your monthly energy costs.
- Shrink your household’s carbon footprint.
- Enjoy more comfortable temperatures throughout your home.
- Make your home more marketable for resale.
- Enjoy a high ROI.
Contact Our Minnesota Residential Roofing Services
Are you thinking of replacing your residential roof? At Powers Premier Contracting, our seasoned roofing contractors work with homeowners throughout West Metro, Minnetonka, and Eden Prairie. We can assess the condition of your roof and help you decide if roofing repair or replacement is the best option for your home.
To discuss roofing replacement services for your home, connect with one of our contractors by calling us at 612-710-7283. Or connect with us online to get a free estimate on your home exterior remodeling project and learn more about roofing options for your Minnesota home.