How Often Should You Replace Your Roof?

A sturdy and reliable roof is critical for the safety and integrity of your home or building. Knowing when to replace your roof can save you from unexpected leaks, damage, and costly repairs. In this blog, we'll explore the average lifespans of various roofing materials, identify signs that your roof may need replacement, and provide guidance on how to initiate the roof replacement process.

Average Lifespan of Different Roofing Materials and Systems

The lifespan of your roof largely depends on the materials used, the installation process, and the environment your roof has to withstand. The best way to know if you need a replacement is to schedule an inspection with a professional, but here is some insight on the average lifespan of various popular roofing materials.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are easily one of the most common roofing materials out there due to their cost-effectiveness and ease of installation. Because of their popularity, asphalt shingles vary greatly in quality and price point across manufacturers, making their lifespan difficult to estimate if you aren’t sure of the quality of your roof. In general, however, you can expect asphalt shingles to last between 15 and 30 years. Other factors like your climate, roof slope, shingle color, and single finish also affect their longevity.

Metal Roofs

Metal roofs are known for their durability and longevity and are often used for commercial buildings. Most metal roofing systems last between 40 and 70 years, making them one of the most durable roofing systems available today. These roofs are fire resistant, can withstand high winds, and help reflect solar radiant heat, helping them hold up to the elements. With proper finishes and regular maintenance on your metal roof, you can get an incredible lifespan from them with minimal issues.

Slate Roofs

Slate roofing is often regarded as durable and lasts up to 100 years in certain conditions with proper upkeep. Its longevity makes it an excellent investment for some types of homes and buildings, but it is more expensive than traditional roofing materials. Depending on your climate, it can also require more frequent maintenance than other systems.

Wood Shake Roofs

Wood shake roofing provides a lovely natural look to your property with a typical lifespan or 20 to 40 years. Wood shake is less costly than other materials in some cases, but it requires frequent maintenance as it can be susceptible to rot, mold, and insect infestation in certain climates.

Tile Roofs

Tile is a popular material in sunnier climates and typically has a lifespan of about 50 years if well-maintained. It requires unique maintenance like replacing broken tiles and sometimes refinishing, but it stands out as a choice for longevity in certain climates.

Composite Materials

Composite roofing materials like those from DaVinci Roofscapes, usually made from mixtures of fiberglass, recycled materials, and sometimes natural materials, can last 30 to 50 years depending on the manufacturer. They are a popular choice for their better durability than asphalt shingles and their ability to be made to mimic the appearance of natural roofing materials like slate and wood shake. They are versatile, relatively easy to maintain, and available at different price points for different budgets and needs.

Signs Your Roof May Need to Be Replaced

1. Curled or Buckling Shingles: Shingles that are curling or lifting are a sign of both age and damage. They can also indicate problems with the underlying layers of your roof.
2. Roof Leaks: Leaks, no matter how small or frequent, usually indicate some type of damage that needs immediate repair. Leaks are also a tell-tale sign that you need a roof replacement, so take them seriously!
3. Missing Shingles: Missing shingles that are not promptly replaced can expose the underlying layers of your roof and create the potential for damage. If you’ve had missing shingles for a while after a severe storm, get an inspection as soon as possible.
4. Loose Granules: If you’re finding granules or pieces of your shingles in your gutters or near downspouts, your roof may be at the end of its lifespan. This sign indicates that your roofing materials are breaking down from wear and tear.
5. Sagging: Sagging across the planes of your roof indicates that the structure of your roof is damaged. This sign must be urgently addressed to prevent further problems and failure of your roof. Sagging or warping can also pose a safety risk, indicating that your roof may not be structurally sound.
6. Visible Structural Damage: Any visible damage to the structure of your roof is likely an indicator that you need a replacement. This can be the more subtle signs listed above or more noticeable issues like visible holes in your roof.

How to Get Started with a Roof Replacement

Here are the steps to getting your roof replaced.

1. Inspection: The first step in the roof replacement process is getting a professional inspection. A qualified inspector can assess the condition of your roof and tell you exactly what needs to be repaired or replaced.
2. Finding a Reputable Roofing Company: Always seek licensed, insured, and well-reviewed roofing companies. Online reviews and recommendations from people you know can be helpful for finding a reputable company.
3. Comparing Options for Roofing Systems: Work with your roofing company to compare different roofing systems. Keep in mind your budget, building needs, and the pros and cons of the systems you have available.
4. Understanding and Scheduling Your Replacement Project: Ensure your roofing company gives you a detailed timeline of your project and explains how you can prepare. Work with them to plan the replacement around weather forecasts and your schedule.

Conclusion: Getting Your Roof Replaced in Oklahoma

Roof replacements can be daunting, but with the right team and proper preparation, you can ensure a smoother process for your project. Learn how to look for signs of damage early, and don’t neglect a roof replacement if you need one!

‍Statewide Roofing in Oklahoma does roof repairs, maintenance, and full replacements all over Oklahoma using a variety of roofing systems for both commercial and residential roofs. For a roofing team you can trust and materials you can rely on, call us! Reach out for a free estimate on your next project, and take a look at our portfolio for some of our work examples.