Roof Replacement: Is It Time?

We know everything has a lifespan. Even the roofs of our home will eventually need to be replaced. There are two types of roofs that are commonly used for residential roofing applications. Metal sheeting, fiberglass and asphalt shingle are the most commonly used materials. Depending on the type of material used for roofing will determine the life span of your roof. Metal sheeting usually is covered with a warranty of up to 50 years in some cases. Fiberglass and asphalt and fiberglass shingle usually come with a warranty of 15 to 20 years and in some of the more expensive shingle you can get a warranty of 25 years. Roofing replacement can be an expensive step so knowing if the roof needs to be replaced or repaired is an important decision. We will look at some of the things that can determine between roof replacement or repair.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is much different from shingle roofing. Metal roofing will last much longer than shingles and in most cases may be the only roof you will need. Metal roofing sheets can also be replaced a sheet at the time. If you were to happen to receive storm damage on one sheet it is easier to replace the one sheet of roofing metal. If you have any cutouts such as roof vents or sky lights this will where some of the metal could begin rusting and will need to be replaced. The fasteners that attach the metal roof after 15 or 20 years will need to be replaced because the neoprene plastic located under the washer of the fastener will dry out and crack causing the fastener to leak.

Asphalt or Fiberglass Shingles

Asphalt and fiberglass shingles will need to be replaced after 15to twenty years of usage. Shingles are designed and constructed to bond together after installation. The heat the shingles are exposed to will cause the shingles to melt and bond together. If at any time the shingles are exposed to high winds you will see parts of the shingles known as tabs that will be torn apart from this special bond. When these tabs are broken they will need to be replaced.

A layer of gravel is constructed on top of the shingle to give it protection. You will see dark spots develop on the shingles where the gravel is worn off. At times you will see the gravel on the ground beside the roof line of a building. If you see a lot of gravel that has been washed away it is time to replace a shingle roof. If gutters are installed on a home you can look at the gutters and downspouts to see if there is gravel found that has washed into the gutters. If you see a lot of gravel in these spots your shingles are losing gravel. Another sign of worn shingles is when you will see the tabs of the shingles rolling or bubbling up.

If at any time you are in need of roofing repair contact your local roofing contractor to see if a complete replacement in necessary. He may be able to repair the roof saving you money.