How many lives does your home’s roof have?
There is really no magic number of years to how long a roof will last. Quality of products, the contractor you hire, the weather environments you live in and some other factors are all variable in the lives that your roof will afford you. If you’ve made it to the 15 or 20 year mark, then consider yourself vested and it’s time to make some changes.
“A roof over our heads is one of those items we take for granted.”
Your roof takes a pounding; every week, every month, every year. It’s the one facet of your home that is never shielded from the elements, and yet, it endures time and disaster. But this still begs the question, just how many lives does your roof have? A roof’s life expectancy depends on various elements, including the above-mentioned items and the long-term maintenance that it receives. In the midwest most roofs last 15-20 years.
The most common elements that can deteriorate your roof include pine needles from large trees, leaves, moss, algae and wind. Regular cleaning and maintenance can extend the life of your roof another 5–6 years, but it’s best to have a professional consultation from a roofing specialist.
Modern roof supplies are made from quality materials and can endure life-spans of more than 30 years if properly maintained.
When Should You Replace Your Roof?
The signs are usually obvious. It’s time for a new roof when it’s leaking, the shingles are curled up or aren’t laying flat, when your gutters are full of granules or when it appears to “sweat” due to lack of ventilation.
Many homeowners will never look at their roof, which is why it’s so important to call in the specialists. A roof over our heads is one of those items we take for granted. But it’s the single most important part of your home’s structural integrity, as all elements that can penetrate will trickle down into your home.
A roof in this condition likely has caused more damage inside your home. If you haven’t noticed it yet, you will when this project gets underway. Don’t let your roof get into this shape.
There is really no way around having your roofing project be labor intensive, loud and dirty. It’s a demolition and construction site that will last for 3 days to a full week. In order to focus on and maintain the structural integrity and longevity of your roof, you’ll want to pick a contractor does not lay over existing roofing materials. You want them torn off and completely redone from new.
You’ll also expose any other existing home issues that may be stemming from the roof and you’ll have an opportunity to repair them bring your home back to safe, healthy and happy.