How Often Should You Replace Your Roof?

Roofs are meant to protect your home and family from outside elements, but after their installation, we tend to take the system for granted. We usually forget about the roof of our home, and only remember when it starts showing signs of damage. 

Like all building materials, a roof will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. If you have an idea about when to replace the system, you can protect your home and save money in the long run. This is what we will discuss in this blog today.

In this article, we’ll provide guidance on how often you should replace your roof based on a couple of factors, as well as tips for maintaining and identifying when it’s time to replace your roof. So, let’s get started!

Types Of Roofing Materials 

A roof’s lifespan greatly depends on the type of roofing material you have on your roof. As you may know, a plethora of materials is available on the market that is used for roofing. Some have a long life expectancy, while others have a life expectancy that’s on the shorter side. Below are some of the popular roofing materials that homeowners in Wisconsin prefer, and their lifespan, so you have a sense of when to replace the materials on your house. 

Asphalt Shingles (15-40 years)

Asphalt shingles are the most popular type of roofing material in the United States due to their affordability, and wide range of colors and styles. The lifespan of asphalt shingles can range from 20 to 30 years, depending on the quality of the shingles and the installation.

Compared with other roofing materials, asphalt shingles might not be the best choice. However, companies are constantly innovating and coming up with better shingles that not only last longer but are also available in various exciting asphalt shingle colors. Though some are more expensive, you’ll find that luxury and architectural shingles are worth their price for their durability. 

Here are the types of asphalt roof shingles and how often should you replace your roof. 

Three-tab shingles: 

Three-tab shingles are the most basic and economical type of asphalt shingle. They have a single asphalt strip and have an average lifespan. They have an expectancy of 15 to 25 years.

Architectural shingles:

Architectural shingles, also known as laminate or dimensional shingles, are thicker and more durable than three-tab shingles. They are made from two layers of asphalt shingles. The shingles have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years. Some of the popular manufacturers make the best architectural shingles available in several shingle color options such as GAF and Malarkey.

Luxury shingles: 

Designer shingles are a premium type of asphalt shingle that come in a variety of colors and styles. They have a dual-strip design and come with extra features such as extended warranties and algae resistance. They have a lifespan of 30 to 40 years. 

Metal Roofs (50-100 years)

A metal roof is known for its durability and longevity, with a lifespan of 40 to 70 years. It is also resistant to fire and wind damage, making it a popular choice in areas prone to these types of natural disasters. However, it should be noted that metal roofing can be more expensive to install than other types of roofing, such as asphalt shingles. 

There are several types of metal that can be used for this type of roofing, including the following:

Aluminum: 

Aluminum is a lightweight, corrosion-resistant metal that is often used for residential roofing. It has a 40 to 50-year lifespan and is a good choice for areas with high rainfall or humidity. This type of metal is also one of the most affordable. 

Copper:

Copper is a durable, long-lasting metal that is known for its resistance to corrosion. It has a lifespan of 70-100 years, and can even last longer. Copper is a premium roofing material, which means it is an expensive option and is often used for high-end roofs or for decorative accents on roofs. 

Steel: 

Steel is a strong and durable metal that is commonly used for roofing. It is available in various colored finishes and can have a lifespan of around 50 to 70 years. Newer options such as stainless steel and galvanized steel are also very popular amongst homeowners. 

Tile Roofs (50-100 Years) 

Tile roofs are a type of roofing material made from clay, concrete, or other types of materials. They are known for their durability and longevity, with a lifespan of 50 to 100 years. Tile roofs are a popular choice for homes with Mediterranean or Spanish-style architecture, as they add a decorative touch to the exterior of the building. They are also resistant to extreme weather conditions and fire. 

Slate Roofing (100+ Years) 

Slate roofing is a type of roofing material made from natural stone, which is split into thin, flat pieces and used to cover the roof. Out of all the roofing materials we have listed, a slate roof can last the longest. It can last for more than 80 to 100 years. So if you have a slate roof you do not have to worry about replacing your roof frequently.

These roofs look fantastic, are highly durable, and can easily withstand the harshest conditions. However, on the downside, they are extremely expensive. They cost more than double, or even triple what asphalt shingles cost. 

Signs That You Need To Replace Your Roof

In the above section, we discussed how long each type of roofing material can last. But there are also other signs that signal the need to replace the roofing system. Below are some of these factors:

• Your roof is nearing its expected lifespan
• You constantly face the problem of roof leaks
• The roof has suffered storm damage
• Your roofline is sagging
• Your utility bills are constantly increasing

To know more about these points, you can visit our blog on How To Tell If You Need To Replace Your Roof.

Get Roof Replacement Service From The Experts 

If you feel that your roof is nearing the end of its expected life, then it is time to start thinking about a roof replacement. Being a proactive homeowner is important so that your home does not suffer.

At Kickapoo Roofing, we have the most experienced and skilled professional roofers who have been installing roofs for years. We are the most reputable residential roofing company in Wisconsin. We install the best asphalt shingle roof systems in La Crosse, and surrounding areas, and have GAF and Malarkey certifications. Contact us today at (608) 352-8688, and we will be happy to help.