How Often Should You Replace Your Roof Shingles In Ontario
One of the most common question we get asked by Ontario home owners is how long should roof shingles last. A related question is how often should asphalt shingles be replaced? As with most questions, the answer is it depends. As we have pointed out in our article on how to choose the best roof shingles, there are a myriad of options to choose from and the higher quality shingles will give you the best value and highest warranty. To learn the average costs to replace roof shingles in Ontario, click here.
How Often Should You Replace Roof Shingles
by Jacob’s Ladder | Feb 1, 2021 | Roofing
Often, an ignored part of any home or property is the roof. Unless there is any evident physical damage, such as a leak, fallen tiles, or other damage, many homeowners forget or refrain from paying their roof the attention it deserves.
According to the NRCA, you should inspect your roof twice a year for any signs of damage. This can be done either by yourself or if you dont know what youre looking for, you can call out a roofing contractor.
Failure to inspect your roof regularly may result in damage to the shingles, whether developing mold or rot, water damage, dark spots, or detaching from the roof completely.
This article will discuss how often you should replace roof shingles, how you know when to replace these, and the importance of regular roofing inspections.
What Are The Symptoms Of Shingles
People with shingles often experience pain, tingling or itching and then a painful rash. The rash can occur anywhere on the body, although it is usually in one strip on the right or left side of the body. The rash consists of groups of small, fluid-filled blisters that dry, scab over, and heal in a few weeks. Healing is usually complete, but some people may be left with scars.
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How Long Does A Cedar Shake Roof Last
Unlike asphalt, metal, and synthetic, a cedar shake roof is primarily made of natural wooden materials.
As long as its properly installed and with proper maintenance, you can expect to get 30 years of life out of your cedar shake roof. If you invest in quality materials and live in an area with the right climate, you could possibly stretch that number further with the possibility to get up to around 50 years.
Because cedar shake shingles are naturally made, theres no manufacturer warranty on the materials if they fail prematurely. This leaves you with only your roofing contractors workmanship warranty to protect your investment if theres ever a problem with your cedar shake roof.
Signs It Is Time To Replace Your Asphalt Shingles
Even if you do the math and figure out that your roof should still have some life in it, there are signs that tell you that might not be true. Again, routine maintenance will prolong the life of your asphalt shingles, but there are other factors that can prematurely age your roof, too. Exposure to sun, wind, rain, and freeze/thaw cycles can weaken shingles over time. Falling debris and other dangers can remove shingles or scratch off granules.
You may begin to notice that your roof no longer looks the way it did when it was brand new. Dont wait until your roof is leaking to replace asphalt shingles. Here are a few signs that tell you it is time for a new roof:
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How To Fix Damaged Roof Shingles
There are have many steps for the fix to damaged roof shingles thats are below-
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The Quality Of The Shingles
The quality of the shingles is a very important factor in determining how long they will last. Shingles that are of poor quality may only last for 5-7 years, while high-quality shingles can last for up to 20 years. Therefore, it is important to ensure that you are choosing high-quality shingles for your roof, as this will help to ensure that your roof is more resilient against wear and tear.
Entire Shingles Are Missing
From a functional standpoint, there should be no problem with just replacing a few shingles here and there. “What you do need to be prepared for is the fact that it’s just about impossible to get a new shingle to match the color of an old one,” says Graham. “Granule colors have changed pretty significantly over the years. Plus, the colors change slightly with weathering.”
How much time you’ve got left: You can keep patching until a bigger issue presents itself, but if a roof starts to look like a checkerboard, people often opt to replace the whole thing.
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Amount & Intensity Of Sunlight
Similar to the weather and climate, the amount of sunlight hitting your roof can also decrease its expected lifespan. For instance, colored roofs can absorb heat and eventually degrade quicker than light-colored roofing systems. One great alternative is metal roofs that can reflect sunlight, maximize energy efficiency, and wear down slower.
Roof Repair Or Replace
Knowing when to replace your roof can sometimes be a conundrum. Should your roof be replaced after a certain amount of time? Or do you wait until there is a leak that comes through your ceiling? And if your roof is leaking can a repair suffice, or does it need to be replaced?
According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, homeowners should check and inspect their roof twice a year once in the spring and once in the fall. Do a visual check from the outside remove debris from the rooftop, drains, gutters and downspouts, as routine maintenance can extend the life of your roof. Check the flashing around chimneys, vents and skylights to ensure there are no cracks or breaks which can lead to leaks.
Go into your attic and check your roof from the inside. Check the sheathing and beams for stains or leaks which are signs of a leaky roof. Check to see if beams of light are coming through the rooftop a sign that shingles may be missing and the wood has rotted through.
When it comes to repairing your roof versus replacing your roof, it depends on several factors, including the type of damage and what percentage of the total roof surface is in need of repair.
Need a roof repaired or replaced?
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So how do you know when its time to replace your roof. The answer depends on a variety of factors.
At B& B Siding Contractors LLC, we give accurate estimates and stick to them.
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Your Roof Needs Work What Do You Do Next
Your roof should be inspected twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. You can also perform regular seasonal maintenance like removing nearby or fallen branches and debris, cleaning eavestroughs, and clearing downspouts.
Keep in mind that sometimes it makes more sense to repair the damage than to completely replace your roof. This decision usually centers around three factors:
- The age of your roof.
- The nature of the damage.
- Future plans you have for your home.
Sometimes, a partial roof replacement may even be possible depending on the age of your roof and the ability to match new shingles with the existing ones.
If youre ever unsure about the condition of your roof, its always best to have it inspected by a professional. A reputable, experienced roofer will work with you to assess your roof and offer advice on the best options for you and your home. When you decide how you want to proceed, theyll be able to restore your roof to its full glory and ensure it continues to perform at its best.
Herb Lodde Roofing has been providing quality roofing services since 1964. We provide all-season servicesfrom summertime replacements to wintertime repairsand confidently stand behind our workmanship. Contact us today to schedule your in-home consultation!
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How Weather Affects Roofs
Where you live has a major impact on how long your roof lasts due to the differences in weather. If you reside in an area that experiences frequent temperature fluctuations or have harsh climate conditions, your roof will most likely have a shorter lifespan. Even if you live somewhere with near constant sunny skies and warm temperatures, your roof can still suffer. Heat and UV radiation can shorten the life expectancy of your roof. It is important to take weather into consideration when determining whether you need a roof replacement.
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Should I Pay Cash For A New Roof
The easiest and most cost effective way to buy a roof replacement is with cash. Unlike a loan, you will not need to maintain or prove that you have good credit standing for approval. There is also no interest to pay. This is your best option if you have enough money not allocated for any expense.
What is a good price for a new roof? According to HomeAdvisor, the typical cost of replacing a roof is between $ 5,100 and $ 10,000, but replacing a roof can be as low as $ 1,200 or even $ 30,000. Many roofing companies will charge between $ 3.50 and $ 5.00 per square foot.
Keep An Eye Out For Signs Of Exterior Damage
Depending on the damage, exterior damage might be difficult to detect or extremely obvious. This is why its essential to inspect your roofs condition following significant storms or as it approaches the end of its lifespan.
Broken or missing shingles are the most apparent indications of external damage. Roofs with cracked shingles or shingles curling at their edges are examples of such damage. This might also indicate mold or moss development as a consequence of water damage.
Exterior damage can be seen in the form of failed repairs. For example, some individuals concerned with lowering roof replacement expenses may choose a double layering solution, which involves another layer of the roofing material superimposed on top of the existing material.
This is a very ineffective technique that can lead to more damage in the long run. Its worth paying a little more for superior roof replacement, so you dont have to pay more down the road.
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You Can See Sunlight From Your Attic
You don’t need us to tell you that this isn’t a good sign because it’s not! If light can get in, so can rain, cold air, and snow. Check for light and also look for water stains. “If you find any, watch them over a few rainfalls and if they change shape or size, that means you’ve got an active leak,” says McGavic.
How much time you’ve got left: It depends on the extent of the damage, so call a pro. Small leaks can be patched, but larger ones, structural damage, and the age factor might make it wise to replace your roof sooner rather than later
Average Life Of A Roof
How long your roof lasts will primarily depend on the type of roof you own and how well you maintained it over the years. Common three-tab asphalt shingles are one of the most affordable roofing options. However, this affordability comes at a price a reduced lifespan. Most roofs with asphalt shingles will last an estimated 15 to 20 years. You can expect architectural asphalt shingles to last a bit longer at an average of 25 to 30 years. Galvalume or metal roofing materials have an estimated lifespan of 30 to 45 years, and concrete tile generally lasts between 30 and 50 years.
Other factors can also impact the lifespan of your roof, such as the color, orientation, and slope of your roof. Darker-colored roofs typically absorb more heat than lighter-colored roofs. If the person lives in a warm climate with lots of sun, their roof may need to be replaced more often. If your roof has a slope that faces south, the sun will have a bigger impact which causes a reduction in the lifespan of the roof. Also consider the pitch of the roof. Roofs that have a high pitch will generally last longer as rain and snow are not able to settle as easily.
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How Much Will Your Asphalt Roof Replacement Cost You
A roof replacement is a major investment. It’s not inexpensive, like every other investment. If your roof is more or less 15 years old, it will need to be replaced in 5-8 years. So start budgeting for it now. Just get an estimate from a contractor, so you’ll know how much you’ll have to put aside when the time comes.
The figures will not be the same because of changes in roofing material costs, but you’ll have a basis on which to start budgeting.
Replacing Roofs: How Often Should Your Roof Be Replaced
How do you know when the time for replacing roofs has come? Age, wear and weather are all important factors: Here are some important tips on judging your roofs life span.
Typical roof life span
One of the best clues for when to replace your roof is when it was last replaced. The average rooftop lasts for at least 20 years but different materials can weather time in different ways. If you have asphalt shingles, they can last anywhere between 20 to 50 years, depending on quality. If you use wood shingles, they will only last around 30 years at the most, and may need to be replaced more frequently than other materials.
Some rooftops can last for a very long time. Slate and concrete, for example, can last for many decades and may still be in good condition in a hundred years! Metal or copper rooftops, meanwhile, can last for around 70 years in ideal conditions while synthetic materials last for less time.
Replacing roofs: Common signs
Generally, the condition of your roof is more important than its age: If your materials have wear or damage, it doesnt matter how new it is, you need to consider replacing roofs. Here are several signs that its time to think about a new roof:
Additional factors and considerations
Keep in mind that weather, climate and the location of your home are also important factors that determine how quickly your roof will age and what new materials you need to keep your house safe. Local roofing technicians will be able to offer more specific advice.
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What Factors Impact The Life Of Your Roof
Aside from your roofing material, your roofs longevity can change based on the following factors:
- Installation quality: Improperly placed shingles can leave gaps and loose shingles or tiles. These problems make it easier for pests and leaks to get through and damage your home.
- You should have a durable underlayment to protect against weakening shingles and strengthen your roof.
- Ventilation in your attic or upper floors: Ventilation prevents moisture build-up, ice dams, and overheating, leading to problems like mold and leakage.
- Roof color: Dark roofs absorb heat, which can cause tiles to expand and compromise your roof. Use lighter color tile to avoid this issue.
- Roof slope: Lower slopes with less incline take longer to shed moisture, which means that water can accumulate and cause rot if left unchecked.
- Climate and weather: If your area gets a lot of rain, snow, hail, or wind, those conditions can impact your roof and cause cosmetic as well as more severe damage.
If your roof has any of these problems, a professional roofer can tell you how to care for it and when to replace it.
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