How Long Do Roofs Last? When to Replace Your Roof
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Written by: FTC Oury Group
Roofs don't last forever. How long your roof will last depends on many variables. The material the roof is made of, how well your roof is maintained, weather conditions, and other factors all impact how long your roof will last.
If you're a homeowner who wants to maximize your roof's service life, it's important to hire roofing repair contractors you can trust. The professionals at FTC Oury Group are experts in roof replacement in Chicago and the surrounding area.
What Factors Impact Roof Life Expectancy?
Homeowners ask us all the time: how long do roofs last? There's not one answer to this question. There are so many variables that it's very difficult to predict how many years your roof will last.
Type & Quality of Materials
What material is your roof made of? Some materials last longer than others. To ensure that your roof lasts as long as possible, work with a contractor to install high-quality materials from good brand names.
- Asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles last between 20 and 30 years, with proper maintenance.
- Metal. Metal panels can last up to 50 years or longer, and need little maintenance throughout the roof's service life.
- Clay shingles. Clay shingles can last up to 100 years with proper maintenance.
Underlayment
Roofing underlayment is the material that protects your roof from water and moisture. Underlayment provides additional protection underneath your shingles. The quality of your roof's underpayment makes a big difference. Work with a respected contractor that you can trust to use quality underlayment materials when installing a new roof.
Weather & Natural Elements
Your area's weather and climate can play a big role in the service life of your roof. While all roofing materials are designed to withstand climate conditions like heat and cold, unexpected storms can cause damage to your roof.
Hail, ice, heavy snow, and other factors can cause storm damage. After big weather events, inspect your roof for signs of storm damage. If your roof is damaged, get repaired as soon as possible to protect your roof from further damage.
Installation Quality
Installation quality matters. Roofs are easy to install incorrectly, and not all roofers hire skilled labor. When a roofing contractor quotes you a very low price for a new roof or roof repair, ask yourself why. They may be hiring workers who don't know much about roof installation. Hiring the wrong contractor can do more damage than good.
Roof Slope
Roofs that have a shallow slope are more susceptible to damage from elements like ice and snow. Flat roofs can also be damaged by buildup from leaves and other debris. These rooftops need extra maintenance to be protected from weather and also require the installation of materials that are appropriate for flat roofs.
If your home or business has a low slope roof or a flat roof, hire contractors that have specialized knowledge of these roof types, and plan to perform some extra maintenance to keep your roof in good condition.
Ventilation & Insulation
Attics need ventilation and insulation. Ventilation keeps air moving and prevents moisture from building up in your attic. Moisture can cause condensation, mold growth, and structural damage, so it's important to ensure your vents are unblocked and in good condition.
Insulation protects your attic from ice dams. An ice dam is a problem that happens when water on the roof freezes, damaging shingles, and underlayment. Proper insulation is important!
Regular Maintenance
Leaves and twigs that build up on your roof can trap moisture there, leading to leaks. Clogged gutters cause problems as well, and can contribute to the creation of ice dams. Performing roof maintenance can help extend the service life of your roof.
How to Maintain Your Roof
The type of maintenance your roof needs depends partially on the type of roof you have, its slope, and other factors. Some general advice for maintaining your roof:
- Inspect your roof once per year, and call a contractor when you have roofing questions or concerns.
- Clear your roof of debris and moss.
- Clean your gutters once or twice annually, as needed.
Roof Repair vs Replacement
It's hard to know when to replace your roof. Roof repair is a good option when your roof has recently been damaged in a storm, but the roof itself is relatively new. Your roofing contractor can let you know when this is the case.
When to Consider a Roof Replacement
Below are signs to look for when it's time to replace your roof. Talk to a roofing contractor if you're having one of the problems below.
Light is Coming Through Your Attic
Holes in your attic are a sign of structural failure in your roof. This will lead to moisture intrusion during storms.
The Roof is Old
Another way to know when to replace your roof is when your roofing materials are near the end of their service life. If you last replaced your asphalt roof 20 years ago, then it may be time to get a new one.
Visible Damage or Wear & Tear
When you perform a roof inspection, look for damage or wear and tear, like warping or sagging in your roof.
Your Shingles are Misshapen
Curling shingles are a sign that they need replacement.
Cracked or Peeling Paint
If you've noticed cracked or peeling paint near your ceiling, this could be a sign of a moisture problem in your attic.
Pests Have Invaded
Rotten wood and mold can be an invitation for pests to invade your attic. If you have animals living in your attic, talk to a roofer.
Don’t Wait for Roof Problems to Get Worse—Get a Free Estimate from FTC Oury Group Now!
At FTC Oury Group, we're known for providing some of the best roof replacement services in the Chicago area. Do you have more questions about how long roofs last? Call today to make an appointment and meet with one of our roofing experts.
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