The roof can be an overlooked part of your home, until it starts to leak, or you notice shingles peeling off. Homeowners generally address the roof when problems begin to rise. However, it is recommended by roofing specialists, such as DMV Roofing Pros, inspecting your roof twice a year for potential problems.
You don’t need to get up on the roof if you are afraid of heights, you can inspect by walking around your home and looking for loose, cracked or damaged shingles, missing shingles, sagging, mold or rot, signs of water damage or leaking, holes or dark spots. Inspecting two times a year can help with catching small problems before they are becoming prominent, or even develop into leaks. Doing general maintenance and repairs costs less than having to replace the entire roof or having a roof rot and collapse.
Average Life of a Roof
The lifecycle of a roof depends on the type of material used and how well it is maintained. Asphalt shingles are the most commonmaterial used on roofs because they are the most affordable option.
Generally, the underlying structure of a roof should last for the home’s lifespan, but it does depend on materials used to cover the roof. Replacements of roofs are dependant on the materials that are used:
- Asphalt shingles last 15 to 30 years
- Composition shingles last 12 to 20 years
- Wood shingles last 20 to 25 years
- Metal roofs last 50 to 75 years
Timeframes for roofs depend entirely on the climate they are exposed to every day. Winter and humidity will wear out the roof material quickly. High winds can impact the roof, as well, and its recommended to check your roof for any damage after any severe storms or high winds.
Other factors that affect the lifespan of your roof are the color, orientation, and slope of the roof. Dark-colored roofs absorb more heat than light-colored roofs. Roofs that have a higher pitch typically last longer because rain or snow cannot settle on it quickly.
How Weather Affects Your Roof
the climate you live in impacts the lifespan of your roof. If you live somewhere that experiences frequent temperature changes or has harsh climate conditions, your roof will have a short life expectancy. Living somewhere with continual sunny skies and warmer temperatures can affect your roof, too, as it will absorb the heat and sunshine, which can shorten its lifespan.
Red Flags You Need to Replace Your Roof
As you perform regular roof maintenance, keep your eye out for red flags that could indicate there is a problem with your roof. These problems, include:
- Damaged shingles– damaged shingles are a noticeable red flag that you have issues with your roof. If you find shingles missing, or they are worn or damaged, it is an indication that you may need to replace your roof.
- Gutters – the state of your gutters can indicate the state of your roof. If you are noticing granules in your gutter, then you have a problem with your roof, and it might need to be replaced.
- Sagging roof – if your roof begins to sag, this is a major red flag that suggests your roof needs to be replaced, and there could be trouble with its structure. A sagging roof shouldn’t be left unattended, and if left too long, it could collapse.
- Roof leaks –if you notice water leaks on your ceilings, this is a frequent red flag that there are problems with your roof. Leaks in the roof occur when shingles or another component of the roof fail, and it allows water to get through the crack. Leaks can come through the attic, develop in walls, or ceilings. If you are noticing dark stains, wet spots, or the growth of mold in your attic, then you have a leak in your roof.
Neglecting Roof Damage
Neglecting any damage to your roof can have serious consequences. Leaving any damages can lead to more extensive damages that result in wood rotting, which weakens the integrity of the roof and your home. Not addressing damage can lead to dangerous and costly problems for you in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Although homeowners typically forget about their roof, it is the most critical item of your home, as it offers protection from the outside environment and protects you and your possessions, so it is important to remember to inspect it for any compromises.
