Is Your Roof Getting Old? 5 Key Signs To Look For

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, protecting you from rain, snow, and pests. Aging roofs are susceptible to leaks, gaps, and, in extreme cases, collapse. Roof replacements are expensive, and knowing your roof’s age helps you plan for the cost.

Determining a roof’s age isn’t always straightforward, though. To help, we’ll walk you through five key signs of an aging roof. We’ll also cover the expected lifespans of different roofing materials and factors that affect longevity.

Factors Affecting Roof Longevity

These factors significantly influence how long a roof lasts:

• Quality of the installation: Poor workmanship on a roof’s initial installation can lead to premature wear and tear. This includes the installation of the underlayment—the waterproof layer beneath the shingles that acts as a secondary defense against moisture. Improper underlayment installation can lead to trapped moisture and mold growth.
• Weather: Extreme weather, such as frequent storms or intense heat, can shorten your roof’s lifespan. High humidity or significant snowfall can also age roofs faster.
• Ventilation: Poor attic and roof ventilation can lead to excessive heat buildup, damaging shingles and other roofing components. Make sure your attic is adequately ventilated to reduce how much your roofing materials expand and contract.

Expected Lifespans of Common Roofing Materials

Different roofing materials have varying lifespans. Knowing your roof’s material and expected lifespan can help you estimate its age and condition.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing materials in the U.S. They typically last around 15 to 30 years.

Wood Shingles

Wood shingles and shakes can last up to 30 years with proper maintenance. Wood provides a classic look but requires regular upkeep to prevent mold and rot.

Metal Roofs

Metal roofs last 25 to 70 years, depending on quality. Metal is increasingly popular because it’s durable and resists fire and severe weather.

Clay Tiles

Cay roofs can last up to 100 years. They’re highly durable and can withstand a wide range of weather conditions, but due to their weight, they may require reinforced structures.

Slate Tiles

Slate shingles can last 50 to 200 years, depending on the type. Homeowners prize slate for its elegant look and fire- and weather-resistance, but it can be very expensive.

5 Signs of an Aging Roof

Know the signs of an aging roof so you can address issues before they become major problems. Below are five key indicators to watch for.

1. Curled, Blistered, or Buckled Shingles

Shingle damage, often caused by prolonged exposure to the elements and poor attic ventilation, is one of the most visible signs of an aging roof. Aging shingles may start to curl at the edges, blister, or buckle in the center.

Curling shingles have edges that peel up while the center remains attached. Buckling, on the other hand, happens when the center of the shingle pops upward. Blistering looks like small pockmarks or holes and can be due to trapped moisture or excessive heat.

2. Missing Shingles

Due to degrading asphalt and weakened nails and adhesive strips, old shingles may loosen and eventually fall off. Strong winds and heavy rains can easily dislodge these weakened shingles. Missing shingles leave vulnerabilities in a roof’s structural framework that could lead to water infiltration and damage to roof decking, insulation, and interior ceilings.

While a few missing shingles don’t necessarily indicate an old roof—improper installation or severe weather could be to blame—don’t ignore them. Consult a professional roofing contractor as soon as possible for repairs.

3. Granule Loss

Mineral granules protect asphalt shingles from UV rays and weather. As a roof ages, these granules gradually wear away. You might notice dark patches on your roof where the color has faded, or you may find granules in your gutters. Loss of granules detracts from your roof’s appearance, accelerates aging from UV exposure, and makes your shingles more susceptible to inclement weather.

Significant granule loss is a clear sign that shingles are nearing the end of their lifespan. Schedule regular inspection and maintenance to help address granule loss and potentially delay the need for a full roof replacement.

4. Damaged or Clogged Valleys

Roof valleys (where two roof slopes meet) play a crucial role in directing water off a roof and into the gutters. Curling or missing shingles can hamper roof valleys’ effectiveness, and then debris can accumulate and further impede water flow. Resulting water pooling can lead to leaking, mold growth, and rot.

Regularly inspect roof valleys for signs of damage or debris buildup. Clean the valleys regularly to prevent water buildup and maintain their effectiveness.

5. Moss or Algae Growth

Older roofs have lost moisture resistance and are prone to moss and algae growth between and under shingles, loosening them and potentially leading to leaks. Failing to remove moss or algae promptly can weaken roofing materials since the growth keeps moisture in direct contact with the roof’s surface.

Address the underlying cause of the growth by exploring preventative treatments you can do yourself or having a professional cleaning service take care of.

Addressing an Aging Roof

Act on roof aging issues as soon as you notice them. You have a few options depending on the type and extent of the problem.

Repair

You can usually fix minor issues like a few missing shingles without replacing the entire roof. This involves patching or resealing vulnerable spots to prevent water infiltration and minimize further damage to extend the roof’s life.

Partial Replacement

In some cases, you may be able to replace only the most damaged roof sections. This can be a cost-effective solution for extending the roof’s lifespan without a complete replacement.

Full Replacement

If your roof is nearing the end of its expected lifespan and showing multiple signs of age, a full replacement may be the most cost-effective long-term solution. A new roof can enhance your home’s curb appeal and value.

Professional Inspection

When in doubt, consult a professional roofing contractor, who will assess the roof’s condition and recommend the best course of action. Regular inspections, especially after significant weather events, keep you informed about your roof’s condition and let you make decisions proactively rather than reactively.