Modern roofing materials are designed to be durable and long lasting, but they eventually have to be replaced due to damage, wear and tear, or both. There is no hard and fast answer to the question: How often does a roof need to be replaced? Here are some guidelines that you might find helpful.

Lifespan of Common Roofing Materials

In many parts of the United States, asphalt shingles are the most popular choice when it comes to roofing materials. They usually last about 20 to 30 years. Wood shingles generally last about 20 to 25 years, while a metal roof can last around 50 years. A slate roof can last well over 100 years.

Factors That Can Affect a Roof’s Lifespan

The conditions that your roof is exposed to will have a significant impact on how long it will last. If your region frequently experiences storms with strong wind gusts and large amounts of rain or snow, your roof will likely suffer some damage.

Making repairs quickly can keep a problem from getting worse, while failing to act or waiting too long can lead to more serious damage and shorten the roof’s lifespan. This is why it’s important to inspect your roof yourself or have a contractor conduct an inspection after a storm.

Moisture is another issue that can cause a roof to wear out prematurely. Water can seep underneath shingles, cause damage beneath the surface, and eventually cause leaks inside the house.

How well you maintain your roof is another critical factor that will affect its longevity. Routine maintenance can help you get a long life out of your roof. You should have a local roofer come out and inspect the roof on a regular basis so you can be alerted to problems and have repairs made before things get worse.

Schedule a Roof Inspection

Now that you know approximately how often does a roof need to be replaced, you can plan ahead and budget so you’ll be prepared when the time comes. If your roof needs to be replaced, or if you aren’t sure about its condition and you would like to schedule an inspection, contact LaBrusciano Roofing & Exteriors today at (610)624-8850.