Roofs Age – But How Much Life is Left in Your Roof?

You probably don’t pay much attention to the roof of your house until you notice physical damage. Unfortunately, this habit might cost you a lot.

Your roof is one of the most expensive parts of your home. Therefore, it is wise to discover how your roof works and how long it can last so that you can plan proper roof maintenance.

Several factors determine your roof’s life expectancy. Learn more about these factors below.

1. The Slope of Your Roof

The pitch of your roof influences its drainage abilities. A roof with poor drainage requires regular maintenance, repairs, or replacements.

If you have a flat or a low-slanting roof, be cautious about the accumulation of water and debris. Unchecked accumulation may lead to mold and fungus, blocking of your gutters, and damage to your roof.

A highly slanted roof typically lasts longer than one that is flat because moisture runs off the surface more quickly. However, it can be more challenging to work with for installers. Make sure that you contract quality roof experts to work on your roof so it can be done the first time.

2. The Climatic Influence

The type of climate you live in significantly influences the life cycle of your roof. Environments with extreme weather conditions will negatively affect the life cycle of any roofing system. 

Areas that experience alternations between hot and cold temperatures during the seasons can cause cracks and splits on the roofing shingles. In addition, wind, hail, and storms cause harm to the roof by removing the protective granules from the top, resulting in mold and roof leaks.

It is vital that you choose durable components for your roof if you live in an area with extreme or fluctuating weather. You should expect your roof to have a shorter lifespan compared to areas with milder weather.

3. Roofing Underlayment

The roofing underlayment is a layer of material placed under your roof and above the insulation for waterproofing. It is used to prevent the build-up of moisture and mold that causes your roof to rot away. It also provides room for roof ventilation during hot weather conditions, as heat build-up in your attic might deteriorate your roof’s sealants.

Ventilation is essential during cold weather, as it prevents the freezing up of trapped water that inevitably causes the roof deck to swell and cause damage. Roof contractors usually include ventilation services in roof maintenance service packages, to increase the durability of your roof.

4. The Color of Your Roof

The color of your roof can affect how long your roof lasts, as well as other factors like the temperature indoors.

The typical advice is to use brightly colored roofing shingles and lighter roofing materials if you live in a warmer climate. This is because darker materials absorb more heat from the sun. The excess heat can deteriorate the roof’s sealants, resulting in frequent repairs and shortening the expected lifespan of your roof.

5. Nearby Trees

Trees branches in contact with your roof can result in foliage buildup, which can in turn cause moisture buildup and mold growth. Progressive accumulation of foliage buildup and decomposition can damage the roof structure. Trees can attract pests like termites, as well as rodents like squirrels and birds – all of which can damage your roofing materials. The presence of trees nearby also carries the risk of branches or even the whole tree falling on your roof.

Ensure regular roof cleaning to dispose of any leaves and debris that build up on the roof and gutters to prevent moisture accumulation.  Finally, cut down trees close to your house to protect your roof.

6. The Material and Quality of Your Roof

The type of roof you have determines how long your roof lasts. The materials used to build your roof, their durability, sustainability, and cost will contribute to the total lifespan of your roof. Cost and longevity of roofing materials are often directly correlated. 

The quality of the materials you choose for your roof influences how long it will last before undertaking roof replacement.

There are both low-quality and high-quality versions of each material. Low-quality materials sell relatively cheaper, but require more repairs and have a lower life expectancy. Instead, choose high-quality materials and a reputable contractor for your roof installation to get the most out of your roof.

7. The Quality of Installation

A qualified licensed roof professional will positively influence the lifespan of your roof. Working with the pros will affect the quality of materials you use and the craft of the installation, which will increase the lifespan of your roof.

8. Roof Maintenance Periods

Regular roof inspections allow you to identify early signs of a deteriorating roof and help you respond accordingly, increasing the lifespan of your roof. Your response could prevent an entire roof overhaul or a significant repair in the future.

How often you schedule your roof maintenance depends on your roof’s current health and the circumstances highlighted above. Seek a professional’s opinion during your annual roofing evaluation, along with their opinions on periodic roof maintenance.

The Verdict on Roof Lifespans

Before buying a home, you should have a roof inspection carried out. This due diligence is essential, and you should not hesitate to request a concession if it does not meet standards. In addition, you’ll want to verify the age and the condition of the roof and address concerns about material, style, and special requirements for your roof.

You should also know the average lifespan of the material your roof is made of before buying the home. The geographic area and the unique climatic conditions your roof experiences determine its lifespan.The above factors will inform you how much lifespan your roof has left if you already own a home. Contact us today for a roof inspection or to talk about your best choice for a roof replacement.