Let’s face it- you are likely to pay attention to your roof only when there is a leakage or visible damage that requires bigger repairs. True, it is difficult to know the right time to replace your roof until signs of damages such as leakages start to manifest. Statistics reveal that roof replacement makes up over 90% of the overall roofing market in North America. Roofs are not meant to last forever and will, as a result, need repairs or replacement after prolonged usage.
Even so, what should you look out for to help you identify the right time to replace your roof?
We have prepared a detailed insight into how often to replace roof in Atlanta and some of the most common warning signs you need to put into consideration.
But first!
What Is the Average Lifespan of a Roof?
As you might have guessed, different roofing materials have a different lifespan. Here is an estimate of the average roof lifespan depending on the type of material used:
Cement or Clay Roofing
Cement/clay tile roofing is known for its resilience and durability. The material used in the manufacture of these tiles makes them quite heavy. As a result, they are installed on a roof with extra-sturdy reinforcement.
The hardness of these tiles also means that you get even more protection. The result is extremely durable roofing capable of lasting up to 100 years.
Metal Roofing
This is yet another roofing choice known for its resilience. Metals like aluminum and steel are incredibly durable and can last up to 50 years without needing replacement.
What’s more, other options like copper and zinc are capable of lasting up to 100 years or more.
Wood Shingles Roofing
Unlike cement and metal, wood is prone to decay and damage by fire. As a result, wood shingles roofing has an average lifespan of 25-30 years.
However, if the roof is kept clear of leaves that trap moisture and encourage moss growth, it is capable of lasting 50 years or more.
Asphalt Shingles Roofing
Normally, asphalt shingles roofing can last up to 20 years before needing replacement. Besides, architectural asphalt shingle roofs can last up to 30 years.
Their sophisticated design makes them a bit more resilient. Other roofing materials include composition shingles that last up to 20 years and rubber roofs that last 30-50 years.
How Often to Replace Roof: Warning Signs
Some signs indicate that you need to have your roof replaced, and the majority are quite obvious. However, it is recommended to have a professional check on your roof at least once a year.
Here are some of the most common warning signs that indicate that you might need a new roof:
Bald Spots or Curled Shingles
Shingles can curl up in two ways. They can either claw or cup. Clawing is when the middle starts to come up, and the edges stay flat. Cupping, on the other hand, is when the edges turn upward.
Both signs indicate that:
- The shingles were not properly installed
- Poor ventilation in the attic has led to moisture build-up underneath the shingles
- Wear and old age due to weather and sunlight has affected the roofing
If your roof shingles curl up or there are bald spots, it is a sign that the granules on the roofing surface have started falling off and are exposing the asphalt underneath.
If there is a presence of shingles granules on your gutter, it is a sign that you might need to replace your roof.
Loose, Missing, or Cracked Shingles
Although roofs are the most ignored part in any house, old, missing, and worn-out shingles are quite easy to spot. They can are seen from a viewable distance across the yard or street.
Missing or cracked shingles on a large area are a sign of a bigger issue. Besides, if your roof has loose shingles that are falling apart, it is a sign that you need to replace your roof.
Dark Spots, Algae Growth, and Moss
Dark spots on your roof are caused by the growth of fungus and algae. Although it is not a direct indication that you need to repair or replace your roof with a new one, the problem can spread and cause serious damage if left unattended.
Moss is common on roofs that do not get enough sunlight. It holds moisture against the surface of the roof, which leads to erosion and wearing out of the shingles.
Other Factors that Affect Durability of Your Roof
Besides the type of material used, your roof’s lifespan can also be reduced by factors such as weather and maintenance. For instance, extreme weather conditions can crack or mold wood shingles.
Metal roofs can also suffer from sealant erosion.
Windy areas can also send tree branches flying on your roof. If the damage is not deal with soon enough, small cracks can let in moisture, which contracts and expands with temperature changes.
As a result, the crack widens over time, leading to further damage. For this reason, it is imperative to hire a professional to inspect your roof once or twice a year.
Nearly 60% of roofing professionals utilize estimation software, which means that you will be guaranteed better results.
Notably, hiring a roofing professional will not only help lengthen the life of your roof but also save you a considerable amount of money used on repairs.
How Often Does a Roof Need to Be Replaced?
Well, based on the above review, there is no doubt that you should by now have the answer on how often to replace roof in Atlanta.
Of course, all you need to do is check on the average lifespan of your roofing material and then look for the above-listed warning signs.
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