The North American roofing market’s latest stats show an annual revenue of over $47 billion dollars! The industry is big and growing.
It’s no mystery why. Every dwelling needs some type of roof, including yours. How often should you replace your roof?
If you know the age of your roof, that’ll give you some idea of whether you need a new one.
There are other ways of knowing whether your roof needs replacing. Read on for answers that’ll help you answer the question, “How often should you replace your roof?”
How Often Should You Replace Your Roof?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question but we’ll try to help you get in the ballpark.
Here’s a breakdown of approximate roof life spans:
Metal Roofing
Metal is a long-lasting choice for your roof. An aluminum or steel roof lasts about 50 years. If the roof is copper or zinc, it can last as long as 100 years or even longer.
Metal roofs are durable and a great choice for a hot climate. They’re also a little more expensive than the more common asphalt shingles.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of the most common types of roofing materials. The common 3-tab asphalt shingle roof lasts about 15-20 years.
Architectural asphalt shingles are more durable and last about 10 years longer than regular asphalt shingles.
Wood Shingles
Wood shingles last from 25-30 years but regular maintenance is a must. With maintenance, it’s possible to get 50 years from a wood shingle roof.
You must keep the roof cleared of leaves. You also need to watch for moss growing on the shingles.
Keep in mind that wood shingles are illegal in some places due to the potential for fire.
Cement Tiles and Clay Roofing
Cement and clay tiles are durable and resilient. They’re also heavy so you need a sturdy reinforced roof before installing them.
Clay and concrete tiles are elegant and add texture to a roof. They’re fire-resistant and last as long as 100 years. Clay tiles are a great option if you’re looking for green alternatives.
Roof Lifespan Factors
Routine maintenance and weather are both big factors in the number of years you’ll get from your roof. Clean your gutters twice a year to avoid backups from your roof’s drainage system.
Inspect for mold, missing shingles, and damaged flashing. Look for early signs of water damage. Get problems repaired as soon as possible.
If you live in a high-wind area, check your roof after a wind storm. If you’ve got asphalt shingles, they’ll sometimes come loose and fly off during high winds.
Don’t Wait to Replace or Repair the Roof
How often should you replace your roof? The answer varies depending on the type of roof and other conditions.
Inspect your roof each year and do regular maintenance such as cleaning the gutters. Don’t let leaves, sticks, or debris stay on the roof.
Make small repairs before they become big problems and you should get at least 15 years from most roof types, many lasting much longer.
Do you need roof repairs? Take a look here.