You may not think about your roof often, but it's one of the most essential parts of your home.
Without a roof, everything you own would be damaged by the rain and snow. Bugs could easily enter your home, and even your home’s foundation could be exposed to irreparable damage.
So how do you know when it’s time to replace your roof? Here are three useful tips on making this critical decision.
The age of the roof
As your roof gets older, it becomes more prone to damage. The Blankenship Roofing Company says normal wear and tear over the years can cause the roof to become weaker, and eventually, it will need to be replaced. How long your roof should last will depend on the type of materials used in its construction.
The typical lifespan of roofs are as follows:
- Asphalt three-tab shingles need replacing every 15 to 18 years.
- Architectural Shingles need replacing every 20-25 years
- Rubber roofs usually need replacing every 30 years.
- Metal roofs need replacing every 50 to 75 years.
All of these depend on the brand of shingles, underlayment and installation. The shingles that Blankenship Roofing is installing now have better technology behind them.
If your roof has started nearing its maximum lifespan, Blankenship Roofing says it’s a good idea to replace it. Doing so before significant issues surface will save you a lot of headaches in the long run and end up being significantly more cost-efficient.
Look for obvious damage
You should do visual inspections of your roof twice a year. Not only will this help you decide whether you should replace your roof, it can also help catch minor problems before they become major ones.
During the visual inspection of your roof, check for:
• Dark spots
• Holes
• Signs of water damage
• Leaks
• Mold
• Rot
• Sagging sections
• Weak spots
• Missing or loose shingles
• Damaged or cracked shingles
If you notice any of these issues, Blankenship Roofing, which has been family owned and operated for 49 years, can help you decide whether your problems might require an emergency repair or a total roof replacement.