Is It Time For a Roof Replacement?

Your roofing system will experience wear and tear over time. Roofing is exposed to direct sunlight for much of the year in Fort Collins, along with occasional high winds, snow, and hailstorms. These factors all lead to roofing deterioration. But, if you notice that your roof is wearing down, it can be tricky to know if you need a full roof replacement or if you can get away with roof repairs. 

Let’s discuss scenarios in which a roof replacement would be called for. Remember that if you have more questions about roofing damage, replacement, and repairs, don’t hesitate to contact your Fort Collins roofing experts.

The Typical Lifespan of a Roof

Knowing the expected lifespan of your roof is important to determine whether or not you need a roof replacement. The longevity of a roof depends on its materials, and different roofing materials can vary greatly in how long they’ll last. 

Roofing Materials and Longevity

Asphalt roofing and composition roofing have the shortest lifespan when compared to other materials. These roofing materials typically only last for around 20 years. Wood shake roofs last for up to 30 years. For the longest possible lifespan, homeowners can choose copper, slate, or tile roofs, which last for 50 years or more. Concrete roofing can even last for as long as 100 years, though it’s rarely used for residential roofing projects. 

If you moved into your Fort Collins home with the roof already installed and haven’t yet had it replaced, start by learning when the roof was installed. With this information, you can calculate how close the roof is to its expected expiration date. 

Roof Replacement: What To Consider 

Many factors go into the decision of whether or not to replace your roof. Here are the main parts of your roof to look at before making your final choice:

Shingles

Checking the condition of your roof’s shingles can provide reliable insight into the condition of your roof. The shingles take the brunt of the damage from Mother Nature, whether it be extreme heat, hail, or ice. Once the shingles start to wear out, the underlying structure of your roof becomes vulnerable to severe damage. 

Shingles can bruise, crack, curl at the edges, and lose granules (in the case of asphalt shingles). If the damage is relatively minor, it may be possible to simply replace the shingles that are compromised. But, if most of the shingles are worse for wear and your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, a full roof replacement may be the best choice. 

Leaks

If your roof is leaking, it’s crucial to enlist the help of your Fort Collins roofing company ASAP to prevent damage to your entire home. A leaky roof can lead to water damage throughout your home, racking up your repair bills. As one of the most severe types of roof damage, a leak needs immediate attention. 

A roof leak may be successfully repaired in some circumstances. But, you may be better off having it replaced, especially if the roof is nearing the end of its lifespan. If the leak was caused by deteriorating roofing materials, the need for a full roof replacement is likely. 

Flashing

Roof flashing is the thin metal material installed on your roof to keep water away from important areas. Flashing protects your roof and home from water damage. Given that it plays a crucial role in the overall effectiveness of your roofing system, the flashing needs to be in good condition at all times.

Checking the condition of the flashing can help you determine whether or not a roof replacement is necessary. If the flashing is cracking or broken, your roof is susceptible to leakage. A full roof replacement can amend this issue and may be the smartest choice if your roof is damaged in other areas as well. 

Bottom Line

If your roof was recently installed, less than 15 years old, or is only damaged in one or two places, a full roof replacement is unlikely to be necessary. In these scenarios, roof repairs will probably do the trick. But, regardless, contact the expert team at Wood Street Builders for a professional inspection and help determining your best course of action.