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Replacing the roof on their homes isn't something most people enjoy dealing with, but in many cases, it is an unavoidable reality. So how often do roofs need to be replaced? The answer depends on several factors, including shingle type, the weather in your area, and proper maintenance.
Woodstock's roof replacement experts at Terminus Construction Group understand that roof replacement is often an expensive and stressful process. However, having a knowledgeable and reliable team of experts at your side can make the process significantly easier and more enjoyable.
To get you started, here's everything you need to know about replacing roofs.
The type of roof you have is a definitive factor when determining how long your roof will last.
Each type is different and, therefore, has a different lifespan. Below is a list of some of the most popular types of roofing available and how long they last. Keep in mind these lifespan numbers represent roofs installed in optimal weather conditions and kept up with regular maintenance.
There are three types of asphalt shingles used in roofing, each with different lifespans: luxury, architectural, and 3-tab.
Luxury and architectural shingles last about 30 years. Luxury shingles could last even longer, as they are thicker than other types of asphalt shingles.
Meanwhile, 3-tab shingles last between 15 and 20 years, the shortest of the three kinds of asphalt shingles. The design of architectural shingles allows them to withstand the elements better than 3-tab shingles, hence their ability to last longer.
Asphalt shingles of all types generally require replacement once they reach roughly 80 to 85% of their expected lifespan.
Wood and wood shake shingles typically last around 30 to 50 years as long as they're properly maintained. If your roof accumulates leaves and other debris, moisture is trapped, and mold and moss damage the materials.
Since wood and wood shake shingles consist of natural wood, they are extremely vulnerable to fire, so keep that in mind when selecting your roof replacement materials.
Composite (synthetic) shingles are created from recycled materials and offer the aesthetic appearance of a slate or wood roof. Composite shingles last approximately 40 to 50 years, and while they may look like shake or tile roofing, they are much more durable. In fact, they withstand harsh weather cycles better than other roof types, and you can even walk on them without damaging them, which you cannot do with tile or shake roofs.
Concrete tile and slate roofing are some of the most durable roofing options available. They're resilient and heavy and last anywhere from 50 to 100 years — sometimes even longer.
Metal roofing typically consists of aluminum or steel, serving as another durable roofing choice. An aluminum or steel roof typically lasts between 30 and 50 years, though less commonly used materials like copper and zinc boast a lifespan of up to 100 years.
The lifespan of your roof also depends on the weather where you live and if you keep up with regular cleaning and maintenance.
For example, damage from hail, wind, or other severe weather adversely affects the integrity of your roof, meaning that full or partial replacement is often necessary. Wind may knock asphalt shingles off of the roof, requiring spot replacements. The humid weather in Georgia affects roofing materials by keeping things damp and encouraging the development of moss and mold.
If not caught and dealt with quickly, a small crack in your shingles allows moisture to grow under the shingle, expanding and contracting as the temperatures fluctuate. Before you know it, the gap widens, and the damaged shingle is a perfect spot for a roof leak.
Fortunately, with routine maintenance, you can catch issues like these early and fix them before they worsen and cause more damage.
How often do roofs need to be replaced if they have damage? The answer depends on the type and severity of the damage.
Left unresolved, even minor roof issues can evolve into more significant, expensive ones. To keep your roof performing at peak condition for the life of the shingles, you should address every problem as soon as you see it. The following signs of damage often indicate that your roof is failing or close to it, so a repair or replacement could be on the horizon.
Even the most minor leak or hole in your roof lets in moisture and, if left unchecked until it becomes severe, can result in costly damage and repairs. Signs of holes or leaks include:
Damage from moisture or water occurs in several ways. From minor to major, signs of water damage from a leaky roof include:
When looking for exterior signs of roof damage, consider hiring a professional. Keeping you safe is a priority, and climbing onto your roof looking for damage is a potentially dangerous undertaking. Visible exterior damage includes:
Keep in mind that any type of roof damage exposes your home to the elements, so it is essential to maintain your roof to avoid potential problems.
If you're still asking yourself, "How often do roofs need to be replaced?" it's time to contact the experts at Terminus Construction Group.
Roofing experts can help you not only identify less apparent problems with your roof but provide effective solutions that minimize damage and costs. Contact a roofing contractor at Terminus Construction Group today to learn more!
