In this article, Rockwall home insurance reminds you to perform regular roof inspections and we’ll go over some different roofing materials that get the job done!
How important is your roof?
Your roof can have a tremendous, positive impact on your home’s appearance. However, because your roof may be less visible than other parts of your home, you may forget the value of regular inspections. After all, your roof protects all of the following:
- Your family in the event of severe storms.
- Contents of your attic from rain and other precipitation.
- Your valuable heating and cooling systems (HVAC).
- Falling objects such as tree limbs.
- Other interior areas.
There are many reasons to keep your roof in tip-top shape other than your home’s curb appeal. You want to protect your investment! So, the next question is: How often should you replace your roof and what are the choices available to do that? We, at Rockwall home insurance, invite you to take a closer look.
Rubber Roofs
Have you seen a rubber roof in your neighborhood? Chances are the answer is “no.” That’s because this choice is often made for office and commercial buildings. Rubber roofs typically last between 30 and 50 years before they need to be replaced. They often have problems with water pooling and direct sun, drying and cracking the roof over long periods of time. Rubber roofs can also shrink over the years, which pulls at the seams.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs tend to be expensive but they last a long time! They’re often used in industrial environments. The average lifespan of a metal roof is between 50 and 75 years! They’re susceptible to corrosion and water leaks, so regular inspections are a must. Metal roofs can also be particularly expensive to repair or replace because of the way they’re designed. You’ll want to inspect metal roofs twice a year.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material for homes in the United States. They’re available in all kinds of colors and usually require minimal upkeep. Roofs with these shingles will typically last 15 to 30 years depending on weather and climate conditions. These tiles are fairly easy to replace when they’re broken due to such factors as wind, other severe weather or falling objects.
Composition Shingles
These shingles are less durable than the other options on this list. They are often multi-layer and their quality varies significantly depending on the polymer or synthetic composite. These shingles last between 12 and 20 years before you need to replace them. As with all the examples listed here, you’ll want to do regular roof inspections to replace any composition shingles that have broken over time.
Wooden Shingles
Good old-fashioned wood is a great choice for many homes. Cedar wood is very popular! This type of roof will last 20 to 25 years before you need to replace it. Like any choice it does have some potential problems. You may have guessed that trapped moisture is one of them. This situation can cause mildew and attract bugs and animals. Wooden shingles are also susceptible to rotting and splitting. However, these shingles are durable and they can add warmth and charm to your home’s appearance.
So, When Should I Replace My Roof?
If you’re seeing water leaks or dark spotting on your interior walls, it’s time for an inspection. The above time frames for different materials should give you an idea of when to expect problems to occur with your shingles.
Why not take a walk around the perimeter of your home and see if you can spot any potential issues? This could be especially useful if you’ve just experienced a storm or any fallen tree limbs.
Rockwall home insurance suggests that you have a professional roof inspection every other year. We’re always providing useful information to our valued customers to help keep their family safe and sound, and protect the value of their homes.
