remember to inspect your roof for storm damage after a big storm

How Long Should a Roof Last? Our 6 Tips to Maximize the Lifespan of Your Roof

How long should a roof last? A roof’s lifespan can vary greatly depending on when your homes was built, the geographic area of the home and what roofing material your roof is made from. In Central New Jersey, there are a large number of neighborhoods that were built decades ago, with many roofs nearing the end of their lifespan.

How Long Should a Roof Last in the Northeastern United States?

Roofs weren’t made to last forever, although some roofing manufacturers (Like GAF or Owen Corning) seem to last far longer than others. As roofing technology goes, roofing materials are better constructed and last longer than roofs in the past (many carrying a lifetime warranty).

Depending on the type of roofing material, where you live, and how well you maintain it, your roof could last anywhere from 20 to 100 years. Let’s go over how long different types of roofing materials are intended to last.

  • Asphalt Shingles – Average 20 to 40 Years
  • Cedar Shakes – Average 20 to 30 Years
  • Solar Shingles – Predicted at 20 to 30 Years
  • Metal Roofing – Average 50 to 70 Years
  • Slate Tiles – Up to 100 Years

Signs You Might Need Your Roof Replaced

People don’t often think about their roof until there’s an issue, which is counterproductive to maintaining your roof’s longevity. Waiting until something breaks, cracks or leaks can be detrimental to your home and can require a roof replacement much sooner than expected.

It’s important to maintain your roof throughout its lifespan with regular inspections, keep it clean from debris, clear out the gutters, and make minor repairs when necessary. A periodic roof inspection every few months might catch small problems before they become serious issues, requiring more extensive (and expensive) repairs.

1. You Notice Curling, Bending, Cracked or Missing Shingles

It is a good idea to get your shingle repaired at the first signs of damage, no matter how minor it may seem. Even if one shingle is damaged on your roof, it can comprise the entire system by allowing water to seep in and under the shingles. These leaks can be detrimental to the entire roof and your home.

2. Flashing Around Valleys, Chimneys, Windows, etc. Appears Damaged

Flashing is often one of the first things to go on the roof, which is critical because flashing is what keeps water from leaking into all the areas on your roof that meet a wall, pipe, ridge, or other roofing elements. If the flashing is cracked or damaged, it leaves your home highly susceptible to leaks.

3.  You Find Water Stains on Your Ceilings or Attic Floor

Water stains on your ceilings or attic floor are a sure sign that there is an issue with your roof. One thing to note is a water stain doesn’t always mean a leak, but it can indicate an issue with moisture in the attic, which can be related to a poorly insulated roof.

4.  There are Signs of Sagging on the Roof

A sagging roof means there’s been standing water in an area for a long time, and that sag can lead to huge damage or even a roof collapse. Contact a professional right away to inspect the roof for safety and determine the next steps.

5.  Moss, Mold, or Algae Grow on Your Shingles

Moss growth on the roof is one of the most common signs that your roof requires attention. These are all clear indicators that moisture is accumulating in an area on your home where it shouldn’t be, usually because there’s a leak somewhere you’re unaware of.

6.  Making the Best Decision for Your Home

If you notice any of the above issues as you do the visual inspection of your roof, it’s time to call the pros. A professional roofer can do a thorough inspection of your roof from top to bottom and pinpoint any issues that require repair. If there are too many repairs, they will recommend a full roof replacement.

When there are signs of trouble with your roof, it may be time to talk to a professional roofing contractor. Look for someone with plenty of experience and a company that has great reviews on Google and with third party endorser,  such as Angie’s List or The Better Business Bureau.


About A-Top Roofing & Construction

Located in Manalapan, NJ, A-Top Roofing and Construction has earned a reputation for beautifying homes throughout the Central Jersey area for over 30 years. We service Monmouth County, parts of Middlesex County and Northern Ocean County. Our full range of services include roofing, siding, gutters, gutter cleaning, windows, and skylights.

People You Know and Brand Names You Trust

Our award-winning staff and professionally trained installers will get the project done on time and on budget. We partner with brands you trust like GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, Pella, Andersen, TimberTech, Englert Gutters, and Azek which means extensive customer choice backed by the best warranties in the industry.

Call Today for Free Estimates! (732) 446-6341 or click here!

Posted in Uncategorized.