Blog

When Do You Need a New Roof?

When was the last time you checked on your roof? How long has it been since you had a new roof installed? Is it time for a new one? 

How long your roof will last varies based on roofing materials used, location, and exposure to the elements. A roof that never sees snow or ice may last a lot longer than one that does. 

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements and as such it undergoes a lot of wear and tear. Rain, storms, snow, and hail damage can lead to roof damage and a leaky roof; but just because you have a roof leak doesn’t mean you need an entirely new roofing system. On the other hand, letting a repair go because “it’s just a little leak” can cause extensive damage and lead to a replacement that could have been avoided.

Generally speaking, a properly installed asphalt shingle roof should last at least 25 years, depending on the style of roofing shingles that have been used. A metal roof will last between 40 and 70 years before you need a roof replacement, but you should still regularly check for signs of damage that can shorten the life of any roof.

Take a good look at your roof. Each layer of shingles should lie flat against the roof. If they’re not, you could have a problem. Additionally, sagging, moss or cracked flashing can also be signs of potential issues. While cracked, damaged, or buckled shingles can cause a leaky roof, how do you know if you need a repair or a replacement? 

Roofing contractors are your best bet to determine which you will need, however, don’t just go with a local “roofing guy”. You want to use licensed and insured roofing companies with a good track record so that you don’t end up getting a new roof installed when a repair would have worked just fine. Sometimes all it takes is a coat of roofing cement to repair the flashing or loose shingles, but a licensed roofer is the best person to make that determination.