When will I know it’s time to replace my roof?
The roof is an essential structural component of a home. It keeps your loved ones and belongings safe, dry and protected from the outside elements. If you wait too long to repair or replace your roof, it can result in leaks, damage, and more expenses. Every roof will need to get replaced eventually. Knowing what to look for can help you budget and be prepared financially. Below are three key factors to help you understand when your roof will need replacing.
Wondering if your roof might need replacement?
Age of Roof
The lifespan of your roof will depend on the material used in construction. Knowing the year of your roof installation is essential in estimating how long you can expect before a replacement is needed. A professional should also inspect it thoroughly, especially if it is older or visible damage is present. Knowing the expected lifespan and estimated replacement year will help you prepare an approximate timeline on when you can expect it to need replacing and budget accordingly.
Here are some common roofing materials used in Alberta and the life expectancy of each.
- Asphalt Shingles – 15 to 20 years
- Architectural Shingles – Up to 30 years
- Cedar Shingles & Cedar Shakes – 30 to 50 years
If your roof is in the latter half of its life expectancy, we recommend calling Dwight’s Roofing for an inspection to better understand how much time your roof has before needing a replacement.
Damage
Alberta weather can be unforgiving and cause significant damage resulting in the need for a roof replacement. Intense storms, high wind, hail, heavy snow, and rain can all affect the shingles and integrity of the roof. After a storm passes, we recommend looking for signs of potential damage, such as missing shingles, fallen trees, and damage to the gutters and flashing.
If you find signs of damage, call Dwight’s Roofing for an inspection to determine if repair is sufficient or if you need to prepare for a roof replacement.
Roof Failure
Sometimes a roof can fail before reaching its life expectancy and require a total replacement. Here are some common reasons that could result in a roof failing early.
- Not following the installation instructions from the manufacturer
- Using the wrong materials
- Using low-quality materials
- Incorrectly nailing or installing shingles
- Improper ventilation and insulation
- Moss or other organic material growing for an extended period
A roof can also become rotten if exposed to dampness for an extended period. Excessive moisture can compromise the roof’s structure and even lead to sagging and mould that can spread to the home’s inside if left long enough.
A roof should be installed by a thoroughly trained and certified professional. When deciding what roofing company to choose, cheaper may not always be the best option. Ensure the roofer you hire has the proper certifications, insurance, and references.
A properly installed roof will save you from needing a premature replacement, ultimately saving you money.
Conclusion
The integrity of your roof is essential to keep your family safe and dry. With regular maintenance, inspection, and repairs, you can avoid premature roof failure and help your roof reach its life expectancy. To be best prepared for how long you have until your roof needs replacement, you should know the type of roofing material used, the year of construction, and if there is any significant damage. Knowing these key factors will help you develop a timeline to be prepared financially and book your roof replacement before it is too late.
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