When Do I Need a New Roof?

“When do I need a new roof?” is one of the most frequent questions we hear.

A roof is always there for you — until it isn’t. Whether you’ve owned your home for one year or many, you may rarely think about the roof and when it needs to be fixed or replaced. Unless there is a hurricane or strong storm, most North Carolina residents don’t need to worry often about their roof. But it will need to be replaced at some point.

How long do roofs last?

When you need a new roof depends on the type of roof on your home.

Metal Roof – 50 years or more

Metal roofs have become more popular during the last decade as homeowners and builders have become increasingly aware of its many benefits. Long service life, energy savings, and superior wind resistance are just a few of the advantages of metal roofing.

Asphalt Shingles – 20 to 30 years

While the vast majority of shingles on the market carry a “lifetime limited” warranty, the reality here in the South is that we live in a hot, humid climate which shortens the life of shingles. A number of factors (the amount of sun or shade on your roof, attic ventilation, type of shingle) determine the lifespan of your shingle roof.

Copper Roof – 70 years or more

Of the naturally-weathering materials, copper is the most popular and can be used as a component in any roofing system. A centuries-old roofing material, copper’s durability is probably unmatched.

While these are the typical life expectancies, your roof could last shorter or much longer than these averages. Check out tips from the Home Builders Association for protecting your home from severe weather.

5 Signs You May Need a New Roof

We have created a list of different indicators that you need new roofing so you can determine what is right for you and your home. Although these are not all of the issues that lead to a new roof, these are some of the most common indicators.

You need repairs.

Storm damage from spring hail storms or August hurricanes can take its toll on your roof. Small breaks in your roof lead to leaks. As soon as you notice an issue, get it repaired to prevent further damage. Unfortunately, you may not notice the needed repairs for a long time, which can cause more problems. Sometimes, a need for repairs is actually a sign you need a new roof. If you aren’t sure if you need a repair or not, we offer roof inspections for both residential and commercial roofs.

Your shingles are curled or cracked.

Another common sign that you need to refresh your roof is shingles that are cracked or curled up on the edges. Shingles are supposed to lay flat across your roof. Older roofs are not as durable as the new roofing used on houses today, so you may see this more in older homes.

Moss is growing on your roof.

Green roofs are all the rage right now, but if you didn’t intend for greens to sprout up on your roof, it is probably time for a new one! The biggest issue with moss growth is the moisture that comes with it. This can cause problems when the weather is cold and the moss freezes.

The flashing is cracked.

Flashing is the material used around different exterior parts, such as vents or chimneys, to keep the rain out of your home. If there is an issue in the flashing, it could cause leaks and lead to major damage on your roof as well as inside your home.

Your roof needs a new look.

We will often refresh roofs when homeowners build an addition or undergo extensive renovations that change the roofline or the appearance of the home. After years of weathering and minor wear, a roof can look outdated, contrasting with the new sections. Renovations and additions mean you’ve got crews at the house anyway, so it’s the perfect time to get more work done and have it finished for years to come.

If you are still unsure of your answer after going through this list, we would be happy to sit down with you. We can discuss your questions and concerns, and determine what your current or planned roofing system needs are, then offer a proposal, if you so choose.