There are two factor that impact the lifespan of your roof type of shingles and weather conditions. Severe winters and humid summers will wear out the roofing materials more quickly. Extreme storms with high winds should prompt a roof inspection with a good set of binoculars the next day. If any damage or color changes are seen on the roof, call a professional roofing technician to do a more through assessment to make sure it is structurally sound.
Lifespan
It’s better to be proactive and look for early signs a roof will need replacing to minimize repair costs, risks of injury, or property damage. Proper upkeep of your home helps ensure that it will stay in good condition to maximize future resale value and protect your home. The manufacturer will specify a recommended replacement schedule based on the material used:
- Asphalt Shingles: 15-30 years
- Composition Shingles: 12-20 years
- Metal Roofs: 50-75 years
- Rubber Roofs: 30-50 years
- Wood Shingles: 20-25 years
The underlying structure, roof deck, should last the lifespan of the house. However, depending on the materials used for the underlayment covering of the roof, a full replacement may be necessary due to damage or rot. If the roof is made of concrete, then it just needs inspections for cracks or other wear. Tile roofs are also very durable and rarely need a full replacement, but they are used in arid climates like the Southwest.
Rain
If you want to see a rainbow, you must endure the rain. Rain is so common in New Jersey that most people just grin and bear it. Damp rafters in the attic and small, unnoticeable leaks in the roof can lead to mildew, mold, and rot if undetected. Consistent, heavy rain will infiltrate weakened areas on the roof. Brown, yellow, grey, or black stains on the attic ceiling or peeling paint on the walls indicate a leaking roof.
Sun
The roof is exposed to the ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun daily even on cloudy days. Even sun resistant roofing systems are susceptible to constant UV exposure. Shingles will shrink and expand in extreme heat and fluctuating temperatures. Constant sun exposure can cause shingles to become brittle and crack. The best way to protect your home from extreme heat is effective insulation and good ventilation. Rising energy bills can indicate a roof leak is allowing air to escape. Light colored roofs reflect the sun, keeping the home cooler in summer. Dark colored shingles absorb heat, causing the snow to melt quicker in winter.
Wind
Hurricanes and tornadoes have high winds that can easily loosen shingles or cause them to crack and blister. Strong winds are any wind stronger than 40 miles per hour. Shingles that curl have already damaged the roof integrity and signal a larger issue if not addressed immediately. Missing shingles can be replaced only if the surrounding area is well adhered and in good condition.
Snow
After every snowstorm, the roof should be inspected. Excessive snow and ice should be removed so that the weight does not damage the roof or gutters. Ridges of ice that form at the edge of the roof called ice dams can start a cycle of damage. As the ice melts, the water will seep under the shingles and refreeze lifting and shifting the shingles. Missing fascia, gutter guards, or flashing should be an immediate red flag that serious damage has occurred.
Hail
Although hail is Rare in New Jersey, when it happens the constant fast-hitting ice can cause a loss of granules from asphalt shingles. Fractured shingles expose the roof’s understructure to decay and rot from subsequent rains or snows.
Contact Us
Family-owned and operated, Deegan and Jun Roofing Company has been installing and servicing residential and commercial roofing customers in the New Jersey area for over 30 years. If you are concerned about your roof surviving the upcoming winter weather or are currently experiencing roofing problems, it’s never too late to contact Deegan and Jun Roofing to get your roof inspected before winter. Address: 345 Terrill Rd, Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
Phone: (908) 322-6405 Hours: Open 8:30 AM ⋅ Closes 5:30 PM