No one wants to replace their roof sooner than necessary. Of course, waiting too long can mean dealing with leaks and damage to your roof deck. So, how often should you think about replacing your roof? Unfortunately, there is no easy answer. How often your roof needs to be replaced depends on the type of roofing material you have, whether there’s more than one layer of material, whether you take care of your roof, and a few other factors.
The best place to start is to have your roof inspected every spring and fall, according to the National Roofing Contractors Association. You can do this on your own with a flashlight or you can contact local Orlando roofing companies. During this inspection, you should check for signs of damage:
- Moisture, wood rot, or mold
- Missing shingles
- Missing granules on the shingles
- Leaking or water damage
- Roof deck sagging
- Dark spots on the roof
- Visible holes in the roof
- Missing or damaged flashing
While these signs can indicate your roof needs to be replaced, how long should you expect the average roof to last? One of the most important factors in determining the lifespan of your roof is its material. Here’s the expected lifespan for common roof systems:
- Asphalt shingles: 15 to 30 years
- Wood shingles: 20 to 25 years
- Metal roof: 50 to 75 years
- Tile roof: 50+ years
When it comes to asphalt shingle roofs, there is usually the option to “reroof,” which means adding a second layer of asphalt shingles onto the roof. Reroofing has advantages and disadvantages. While it costs less to reroof rather than completely replacing the roof as there are no costs for tear-off, the overlay (or new layer of shingles) has a shorter lifespan than a new roof with the same material. A roof overlay also makes the roof heavier for higher cooling costs and it can allow hidden damage under your new roof to go undetected.
Whether your roof was installed properly is another major factor in its expected lifespan. Mistakes in the installation of your roof can lead to problems down the road, including leaks, damage to the internal structure of your home and roof, and possible premature roof replacement. According to the RSI Group, professional installation and workmanship is the single-greatest factor in ensuring your roof reaches its expected lifespan, although choice of material and proper ventilation are also important. This is why it’s important to choose licensed roofers in Orlando who have the experience and training necessary to do the job right.
Not sure if it’s time to replace your roof? Contact the trusted Orlando roofers at Janney Roofing. Our licensed roofing experts will inspect your roof for signs of trouble and recommend the most cost-effective solution. If your roof has a few missing shingles or a single leak, repairs can likely help you get more life out of your roof before a full replacement is necessary!