A roof is an integral part of your home that plays a significant role in improving your property’s safety. A healthy roof enhances your home’s curb appeal, insulates your home, protect your family, and reduce energy costs. Regular home maintenance is an essential practice that’ll improve the longevity of your roof. Based on research, roof replacement is among the most expensive home upgrades that you can make. Approximately, it ranges from $6000 (£4,551)  to $34,500 (£26,168) depending on various factors, such as type of roof and size of your property.

How Long Should a Roof Last?

Generally, a roof can last for 10 – 50 years depending on various factors, such as the type of roofing material, environment, etc. A well-maintained roof will have a long life span.

Different Factors that Affect Roof Life

There are numerous aspects that’ll determine the lifespan of your roof. Roofing is an expensive investment; therefore, if you’re replacing your roof, consider buying the right roofing materials. Below are some of the key factors that affect roof life.

1. Quality of Materials

There are high and low-quality versions of each roofing material. High-quality roofing materials are quite expensive, but they’re worth it. This is because they have the ability to withstand harsh climatic conditions. On the other hand, low quality roofing materials have a lower expectancy because they’re prone to damage. In the long run, buying high-quality materials is more cost-effective because there’ll be minimal repairs.

2. Workmanship of Installation

Roof installation has a major effect on the durability of the roof. Therefore, before choosing contractors, make sure you investigate their past clients’ reviews, experience, reputation, insurance and liability coverage, warranty, and access to high-tech equipment. A great roofing contractor will strive to provide top-notch services at a cost-friendly price. Homeowners should consider hiring a professional roofing company in Stourbridge with an exceptional reputation.

3. The Slope of your Roof

The pitch of your roof impacts drainage. According to studies, a roof with poor drainage requires frequent replacements and repairs. Property owners with flat roofs need to check for water accumulation. A dumpy section of your roof can act as the breeding ground for fungus, mould, and mildew.

4. The Elements

Sun exposure and the climate are great factors that impact your roof’s lifespan. Irregular temperatures, strong winds, hail storms, corrosive elements, and heavy downpours can threaten your roof’s health. Therefore, you should consider choosing durable roofing materials that can withstand adverse climatic conditions in the long term. Irregular temperatures that occur during the spring and fall can cause cracks and splits in shingles.

5. Insulation

Poor insulation can cause the temperatures in your attic to soar. Bad and inadequate ventilation makes it difficult to regulate the temperature in the attic. Therefore, your roof will crack, especially due to irregular temperatures.

In addition, other factors, such as the age of the roof, frequency of roof maintenance, and ventilation, can impact the Durability of your roof.

Life Span of Different Roofing Materials

a. Concrete Tile Roof

Concrete tile roofs come in three styles: large curve, flat, and a slight curve. Concrete roofs are durable because they can remain strong for 50 years. Most people opt for concrete tile roofs because they can reflect sunlight and withstand high heat.

b. Composite Shingles

Composite shingles are made of plastic, rubber, and polymer. This type of roofing material can provide more protection against hail, fire, and heat, depending on the option you choose. Composite shingles come in a wide array of colours and will last for 40 to 50 years.

c. Wood Shingles

Most wood roofs last for up to 30 years, especially if you take good care of the roof. A wood roof is prone to storm damage, fires, and termites.

d. Three-Tab Asphalt Shingles

Three-tap asphalt shingles are commonly used for do-it-yourself roofing projects. It lasts for 10 to 20 years. These materials are budget-friendly and have the lowest life span. This is because they have low wind resistance.

e. Metal Roof

The thickness of the metal roof is a key determinant of your roof’s lifespan. Thinner metal roofs will last for 20 to 25 years. On the other hand, thick and high-quality metal roofing materials will last for up to 50 years.

f. Slate Tiles

Slate tiles are extremely durable because they can last for more than 50 years. They can resist snow, heat, hail, and moisture.

Ways to Make Your Roof Last Longer

1. Clean Gutters Regularly

Proper gutter cleaning will prevent water build-up, which can increase the risk of roof leaks.

2. Remove Mould and Moss

Mould, moss, and algae spores are easily carried by wind and can spread from one roof to another. Moss and mould are more detrimental, especially when compared to algae. If you identify the presence of mould and moss, consider hiring professional roofing cleaning services.

3. Check for Missing and Cracked Shingles

Excessive temperatures can cause your roof to crack or shrink. In addition, severe summer weather, like tropical storms and hurricanes, can cause roof damage. Therefore, you schedule a regular roof inspection.

4. Remove Snow From the Roof

Snow on the roof can affect the integrity of your roofing materials. Heavy amounts of snow can cause roof collapse. Therefore, homeowners should remove snow from the roof.

5. Trim Back Trees

While tree limbs around your property can improve the beauty of your landscape, they can cause roof damage. Branches and limbs knocked loose during a hail storm can cause immediate damage to your roof. Hiring professional landscaping services is a great idea that’ll minimize the risk of roof damage.

Signs You May Need a New Roof

– Roof Sagging

Roof sagging can be a sign of structural damage that can lead to roof collapse. There are various aspects that can cause roof sagging: faulty roof materials, a vast amount of water, exposure to moisture, and improper installation.

– Debris in Gutters

Check your gutters for sand-like granules or pieces of asphalt that are used as a topcoat. Debris in the gutter is a sign of roof deterioration.

– Aging Roof

The age of your roof can be determined by various factors: level of maintenance and type of material. If your roof is 15 years, it’s high time you hire professional roof inspection services. A roofer will determine whether your roof requires replacement.

– Damaged Flashing

The main objective of flashing is to prevent the movement of water into the roof. Flashing can be damaged by the deterioration of roof materials. Damaged flashing is a sign that you need a new roof.

In addition, other signs of roof damage include rotting underlay, ridges, falling mortar, attic leaks, loose roof tiles, and water damage.

Conclusion

Most roofs will last a very long time, as long as the proper care attention is given, you will very little to no problems. If you have any concerns about any of the things we listed above, and believe your roof may have some of these issues, you can contact Stourbridge Roofing Pro’s today, for a roof inspection in Stourbridge.