Even gentle wear and tear can take a toll on your roof. Proper roof maintenance can help with its longevity, but eventually, it’ll get too old to function correctly.
Sometimes there are obvious signs that your roof is in disrepair, but sometimes, it’s more subtle. So how often should a roof be replaced?
Signs Your Roof is Getting Old
You should have roof installment documentation if you didn’t buy a newly constructed house. While it’s fair to base whether you need a replacement based on the roof’s age, keep your eyes out for some other signs of age.
Shingle Granules in Your Gutter
Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing across the US. They’re generally the cheapest option and are relatively easy to install and repair. And they usually give the most obvious signs of needing to be replaced.
As shingles age, they deteriorate, causing the small, rough granules to fall off in abundance. Some granule loss is normal. However, on an old asphalt roof, you’ll notice a buildup of these granules in gutters and on the ground around your home.
Rolling and Curled Shingles
Another indicator that your asphalt roof is nearing the end of its lifespan is by looking at the state of the shingles. Cracked or missing shingles indicate some damage, but so do curled corners. Old shingles roll up at the corner, and your roof will no longer have a sleek, flat look.
Water Damage in the House
A leaky roof indicates damage, regardless of age. However, when you see water damage in the attic or elsewhere in the house, it’s time to figure out how old your roof is. Weather damage can present itself similarly to age, so make sure you properly assess whether you need a repair or if it’s time for a replacement.
Moss and Mold
The exterior of your home can also indicate if trapped water exists on your roof. Moss and mold grow in extremely damp conditions. The older a roof gets, the less moisture it can retain from the underlayment. When you see moss or mold, it indicates that your roof may no longer be structurally sound.
How Often Does a Shingle Roof Need Replacing?
So now that you know what an old shingle roof looks like, when do you need to start looking for these signs?
Depending on the climate, material quality, and maintenance, shingle roofs can last 20-30 years. While they are the cheapest roofing material option, they have one of the shortest lifespans.
How Often Does a Tile Roof Need Replacing?
Widespread in central and southern Arizona, tile roofs don’t often require replacement within the homeowner’s lifetime.
Clay Tile: 100 Years
Clay tiles are the classic terracotta-colored tiles you see in Spanish-style homes. They’ve been a staple of warm climate construction for hundreds of years. Without significant damage, a clay tile roof can last about 100 years.
Composite and Concrete Tile: 50 Years
Composite and concrete tiles are the more modern cousin of clay tiles. Factories can create composite tiles from recycled materials that often look like clay tiles. Both composite and concrete tiles usually last around 50 years.
Slate: 50-200 Years
The range of the lifespan of clay tiles might seem enormous, but that comes down to the different stones used as slate tiles.
Hard slate is incredibly durable and weather resistant, and completely waterproof. A hard tile roof can last up to 200 years.
Soft slate, as the name indicates, uses a slightly softer stone. Still incredibly hardy, it lasts anywhere from 50-125 years.
What About Other Roof Types?
Variety is the spice of life, and roofing materials also follow that rule. Here’s a look at a few other roof types you might see in Arizona.
Metal: 20-70 Years
Metal roofs offer a powerful aesthetic and are generally one of the more damage-resistant types of roof. However, like all materials, metal roofs do eventually age out.
Screw-down panel roofs only last about 20 years, the same as asphalt shingles. Standing seam metal roofs don’t need replacement until they’re about 70 years old, depending on how well they’re maintained.
Flat Roof: 20-25 Years
Mostly seen on commercial buildings, flat or low-pitched roofs generally need to be replaced every 20 years or so.
When It’s Time for a Replacement, Call Legacy Roofing
You might be surprised how much a brand-new roof can change your house. To name a few, consider the improved insulation, energy savings, and appearance. It might seem daunting, but having a sound roof can make a difference.
When you’re ready for a roof replacement, call Legacy Roofing. We’ll ensure your home (and everyone in it) is safe and sound. Reach out today to schedule an inspection.