Your roof is arguably the most important part of your home.

Your roof is arguably the most important part of your home when it comes to protecting the entire house from damage, leaks, and other environmental hazards. With that in mind, it’s important that homeowners keep regular maintenance on their roof and regularly check for signs of damage. Roofs often need repair or replacement sooner than many people suspect. By addressing damage early, homeowners can prevent higher costs and further damage to the entire home through preventative maintenance and replacement.

So, how do you know if your roof is in need of repair or replacement? There are three main considerations you should take into account: age of the roof, type and quality of roof, and signs of damage to the roof.

Consideration #1: Age of the Roof

The most common types of roofing materials should be replaced every 15 to 20 years. If your house has a metal roof, this should be replaced every 50 years or so, but these are rare.

A roof that is 25 to 30 years or older will likely require a complete replacement, even if the roof itself appears in good shape from the naked eye.Older roofs were often created with materials that are no longer considered up to industry standard today and can be easily damaged.

If your roof is 10, 15, or 20 years old, it’s time for a thorough inspection. While only a repair may be needed, investing in an entirely new roof altogether may be necessary especially if your roof has been laid over a previously installed roof.

What factors impact how long your roof lasts?

• Quality of workmanship: Poor quality installation will shorten your roof’s lifespan.

• Environment: Exposure to high winds, extreme temperatures, and storms can decrease how long your roof lasts.

• Quality of materials used: Cheaper materials won’t cost as much upfront but will have to be replaced more often than other expensive roofing materials.

• Type of roofing material used: Each roofing material has different durability, making them last longer or shorter in different conditions.

Consideration #2: Type & Quality of Roof

Asphalt shingle roofs (most common type of residential shingles) will last between 15 and 30 years. However, this can vary based on the climate and weather conditions of where you live.

The type of asphalt shingle roof will also influence how long your roof will last.

• 3-tab shingles typically last between 15 and 20 years. They are the cheapest asphalt shingle option.

• Architectural shingles, or dimensional shingles, have a longer lifespan of 20 to 30 years. However, architectural shingles do come at a higher price tag.

• Premium shingles can last between 25 and 40 years and have the highest price.

Consideration #3: Signs of Damage to the Roof

Last, and likely most obvious, is if you can see signs of damage to your roof it’s time to start considering an inspection.

Signs it’s time to repair or replace your roof can include:

• Lifted or missing shingles (common with wind damage)

• Shingles curling at the edges

• Water stains on the ceilings/walls of your home or water damage to attic space

• Cracked shingles

• Shingle granules missing or found in gutter run-off (common with hail damage)

• Roof sagging 
• Sagging is a sign that trapped moisture has rotted away boards under the roof

• Moss, mold and fungi 
• This is also a sign of  trapped moisture, which can ruin a roof.

• Missing or damaged flashing, gutter guards or fascia 
• Proper support is needed to ensure the roof is structurally sound and will not be at risk of collapse.

Start your Inspection from the Inside

If you’re suspicious your roof is in need of repair or replacement, you can start at home by inspecting the condition of your roof from the inside out. Take a flashlight with you to your attic or to the space in your home where the interior of your roof is visible and look for the following potential signs that may indicate a more serious issue:

Light: Light beams are common in roofs that require replacements or repairs. For best results, inspect the interior of your roof during the day to catch and identify any light that may be coming through.

Leaks: Check the interior of your roofing area for drips and potential leaks. If your roof is beginning to leak, other areas of your home and its foundation are at risk.. Water dampness can lead to additional rot along with mold growth that can contribute to breathing and other health complications.

Streaks and Stains: Take note of all of the interior of your roof and look for potential spots, stains, and streaks. Stains and streaks within the interior walls of your roof can signal leaks and a more serious problem with your roof’s durability.

Call an Expert

The key to having a long-lasting roof is to schedule regular roof maintenance and inspections performed by roofing contractors. By identifying issues early and performing roof repairs, you can extend your roof’s lifespan. With a trusted and experienced roofer like Home Run Improvement on your side, you can rest assured you’ll have a long-lasting roof that will shelter you for years to come.

Ready to schedule your next roof inspection? Call us today at 502-888-1396 today for your FREE estimate.