When it comes to your residential roof installation, one detail that's often overlooked is its age. Knowing how old a roof is can make or break decisions when dealing with repairs and replacements. This article will explore the importance of knowing your roof's age and provide some tips to determine how old it is.

Why It’s Necessary to Know Your Roof's Age

Reasons to Know Your Roof's Age

Insurance Considerations

Many insurance companies require you to disclose your roof's age when applying for coverage. They may refuse to insure an older roof or charge higher premiums. Knowing how old your roof is can help ensure your policies provide enough protection should anything happen.

Safety Considerations

An old roof can pose significant safety risks, especially if it is already damaged or deteriorating. An aging roof is prone to leaks, which can damage your home's interior and pose electrical hazards. In areas with heavy snow or rainfall, an aging roof may become more prone to collapse.

Know When Repairs Are Necessary

Knowing when repairs are necessary starts with determining how old your roof is. This helps you plan for repairs and maintenance and address any issues before they become more severe.

Determine if the Roof Is Due for Replacement

A roof's lifespan can vary depending on several factors such as the type of material, quality of installation, and local climate. Generally, asphalt shingle roofs last between 15 and 25 years, though others can exceed that range like slate and tile. If your roof is approaching or exceeding this age range, it may be time to consider a complete replacement. 

How to Determine Your Roof's Age

Look for Signs of Wear and Tear

Keep an eye out for common signs of aging, such as missing shingles, cracked sealant, and algae growth on your roof. This could mean you need a residential roof repair soon or a complete replacement. Check for any water damage inside your home. This could indicate a leaky roof that needs to be addressed immediately!  

Check the Manufacturer's Warranty

Most manufacturers provide information on when the roof installation took place, which would be helpful if you've just purchased the property. Manufacturer warranties can also tell you how long a roof should last, so you can use that as a guideline to determine its age and whether it may need repairs or a replacement.

Contact a Roofing Professional

If you're still unsure how old your roof is, hiring an experienced professional can help. They can help you get accurate information about your roof's age and needed upkeep. Knowing how old your roof is and when it may need replacing or repair is a crucial step in home maintenance that shouldn't be overlooked.

For your asphalt shingle and metal roof installation and repair needs, look no further than Hershey Exteriors. Give us a call at (302) 569-9039, or reach us here to request a free estimate.