If you’re planning to replace your roof, you want to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth. Roof replacements can be expensive, so it’s important to choose one that will last. While weather and other factors can affect a roof’s lifespan, how long do roofs typically last for homeowners in Tennessee?
Feeling a little lost about what to do with your roof? Don’t worry—at Daniel Hood Roofing, we’ve got you covered! We’ll walk you through when to replace a roof, signs it’s time for a new one, and the best time to schedule a replacement. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about roof life expectancy in Tennessee.
How Often Do Roofs Need to Be Replaced?
The exact timeline of a roof replacement varies depending on things like weather patterns and the type of roof you have. Storms and tornadoes can add extra wear and tear to your roof and require more frequent maintenance and repairs, but regular inspections can help you keep on top of the damage.
Here is a general idea of how often you should replace your roof depending on the material:
- Asphalt Shingles: You should replace these every 15 to 20 years.
- Tile and Slate: Tile and slate roofs can last for up to 50 years with the proper maintenance.
- Metal Roofing: Metal roofing can last anywhere from 40 to 70 years.
- Wood Shingles: These need to be replaced every 25 to 30 years.
Signs That Your Roof Needs to Be Replaced
Even though we now know a roof should last anywhere from 20 to 30 years, things like tornados and poor construction can mean you need a roof replacement sooner. While some warning signs from your roof are more obvious than others, it can still be tough to know when it is time to call in the professionals to replace your roof. Knowing what to look out for can help you save money in the long run as well as the headache that comes with a faulty roof.
Leaks
Leaks or wet spots on your ceiling are common warning signs of roof issues. Your roof serves as the first line of defense against the elements, especially rain. If ignored, leaks can cause significant water damage and expensive repairs.
Even if the leak seems minor at first, don’t wait for a more serious problem before calling someone. Small amounts of water can cause significant damage to your home. Leaks need to be addressed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and diagnose the root of the problem.
Missing Shingles
While a missing shingle may not seem like a big deal at first, it can lead to serious problems later on. Each shingle on your roof creates an offensive line that keeps the lower structures in your roof safe from the weather. Even one missing shingle can become a breach in that line, allowing water and other unwanted debris to creep into your roof and wreak havoc on your home.
Not many people take a good look at their roofs every day before they go to work, so a missing shingle may be hard to notice. Give your roof a general look-over to check for any obvious missing shingles or schedule a roof maintenance appointment with a professional.
Granule Loss
Your shingles protect your roof, but what protects the shingles? Shingles have a layer of granules on top to protect the shingles from rain or other elements, especially ultraviolet sun rays. As your roof gets older, the shingles will start to lose these granules. You may find them around your home or in the grass. This may not feel like a big deal, but it can leave your shingles vulnerable to damage and drastically decrease the lifespan of your roof.
Cracked Shingles
Shingles expand and contract as the temperatures outside change with the seasons, and this can lead to cracks forming. These cracks are more than just cosmetic problems. They can lead to leaks in your roof and lower wind resistance for your roof. This can be a big problem for Tennessee residents, as strong winds and storms can be common throughout the state. Cracked shingles are more likely to fly off in the event of strong winds, and they may require a roof replacement.
Sagging Roof
Your roof should be at a straight angle without any curves or bends. If you find any dips or curves in your roof, it means there is something wrong with its structure. Excessive snow weight, water damage, and design errors can all cause your roof to sag, and these issues need to be addressed as soon as possible.
Rotting Shingles
It can be common for moss or algae to grow on your roof, but enough buildup can lead to your shingles rotting and developing mold. Rotting shingles need to be replaced as soon as possible to prevent the rot from spreading throughout your roof. If caught early enough, you may be able to fix the problem by simply replacing the shingles. If the rot has spread to your roof structure, it may be time for a roof replacement.
When is The Best Time for Roof Replacement in Tennessee?
When scheduling a roof replacement, the season and time of year will play a massive part in how technicians will replace your roof. You want the weather to be as clear as possible to improve the quality of the work and the efficiency of the job. This can vary slightly from state to state, but the best times of year to replace your roof in Tennessee are either in the spring or fall.
- Spring: Cooler temperatures make it safer for the workers on your roof. Spring roof replacements also make sure your roof is ready to go before the summer heat kicks in.
- Fall: Similar to the springtime, the fall has lower temperatures and less humidity. This allows for your roof material to better adhere together and create a water-tight seal before the winter snow comes in.
Roof Replacement Services Throughout Knoxville, TN & The Surrounding Areas
Are you looking for a roofing champion in the Knoxville area? Daniel Hood Roofing is your leading man in the roofing industry, and we are ready to intercept any roofing problem that comes your way. Our roofing specialists will scale your roof, diagnose the problem, and get you a brand-new roof that is built to last. We use only the best materials and tools available on the market to ensure your roof is done right the first time and is the defensive line from the elements.
