We understand here at Georgia Roof Advisors that you don’t want to hire a contractor to repair or replace your roof until it is absolutely necessary. You want to get your full money’s worth on your roof that has likely been repaired or replaced in the past couple of decades at least.
However, it is essential to know what type of roof you have, and how long your roof should last, because if you ignore it for too long, your home could become dangerous for you and your family.
In this blog, you will learn how long each type of roof lasts before needing to get repaired or replaced, and we promise that you will know exactly what you need to do after you read this.
3-Tab, Asphalt Shingles
3 tab, asphalt shingles are the most basic shingles, and are most likely what is on your roof. Builders often use this roofing material because they are the most affordable option, which is why they are so popular.
They are the easiest to maintain and fix when broken due to their basic pattern and simplicity.
You can expect a roof that has asphalt shingles to last about 15-20 years in Georgia. Providing the roof has been ventilated correctly (the manufacturers warrant these for 25 years for manufacturer defects).
Some signs that your asphalt shingle roof needs to be repaired or replaced:
- Shingles are cracking
- Granules are missing
- Shingle edges are curled
- Dark streaks (algae) or moss visible
- A silvery glow to the roof (this is the fiberglass matting showing through from the asphalt getting thin)
Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles are also asphalt shingles, but they are considered to be fancier as they come in a wider range of colors and styles, and they are also 2-3 times denser than your typical 3 tab asphalt shingle.
Since architectural shingles are heavier duty, they last up to ten years longer on average than asphalt shingles.
Their normal life span is around 25-50 years (provided the roof is ventilated correctly). It can be seen as confusing with these shingles as the manufacturer warrants these for 50 years for manufacturer defects, but in this environment they only last 25-35 years.
Designer shingles are thicker and can last a little longer too.
Clay Roofing
Clay roofs are considered to be many steps above architectural shingles, as they are much more solid, durable, and dense.
Not only that, but they are the best option environmentally as they are made of natural materials that are not susceptible to rotting and will also save you money on powering your home because they are very thermal.
Obviously because of this, they are on the more expensive side to repair or replace, but it is pretty rare when that happens. Clay roofs can last for approximately 35-50 years.
Here are some signs your clay roof has reached the end of its lifespan:
- Dry shingles
- Brittle shingles
- Cracking shingles
- Water damage
- Weak underlayment
The reason you don’t see many clay tile roofs in Georgia is because of the traditional wooden structure of the homes in Georgia. A clay tile is very heavy and the wooden structure of the home may not be able to support it.
Before falling in love with this grand tile look, check with your contractor to confirm your home can support the weight.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofs are 100% recyclable and are extremely durable, as they are made out of aluminum in most cases.
They are made to withstand heavy rain, hail, and wind, and require little to no maintenance.
With that in mind, a lot of roofers don’t offer metal roof services because not many people are into the look of metal roofs and think they will be too loud when it rains (but this is not the case).
Metal roofs can easily last between 50-70 years, and sometimes even longer with maintenance and if a coating is applied before they start to corrode.
Here are some signs that your metal roof should probably be repaired or even replaced:
- Metal panels have clear storm damage
- The fasteners holding your roof together are starting to work their way out
- The finishing paint coat on your roof looks damaged or is streaking
- Rust starts to show
The Bottom Line
When it comes down to it, just because you have an architectural roof for example, that does not mean it will live out its entire life span of 50 years.
The following will reduce the life of your roof:
- The contractor is not ensuring the roof is ventilated correctly.
- A poorly installed roof, or
- A leak left unresolved.
- General upkeep like changing out roof accessories
- Cleaning the gutters and blowing debris off a roof
That is why you need to be aware of the signs that a roof needs to be repaired or replaced.
Here at Georgia Roof Advisors, we have been serving Marietta and its surrounding areas for 13 years. We are committed to giving you honest and quality roofing services in both roof repairs and roof replacements.
If you have any concerns whatsoever about your roof, please give us a call at (678) 757-3477, and we will be sure to work with you to find the solution to your roofing problem.