- "My roof isn't leaking, so it's fine"
- "My house is only 12 years old and I have 30 year architectural shingles, so I know it's not ready"
The fact of the matter is that most roofs are different from each other. Even when homes of the same floor plan are built in the same neighborhood by the same builder at the same time, each of these individual roofs can age and or perform differently than one another. Here is a sample list of some of the factors that may cause similar roofs to age differently:
a. Different Brands of Shingles.
Sometimes builders will buy whatever is the cheapest product they can get at the start of each home. Different brands can perform and age differently.
b. Different Roof Elevations.
Similarly built homes, even those with the same floor plan, can have different shaped roofs. One might have decorative dormers or gables, while another may be a full hip roof (all eaves are parallel to the ground). Different roof elevations can vent and or hold heat differently. Ventilation is a key factor in the lifespan of a roof.
c. Shade Factors.
Shade trees, properly situated, can help extend the lifespan of a roof by blocking direct sun and heat. In hotter climates, heat can be among the worst of enemies for asphalt shingles. Shade trees that are situated too close to a home, or overhanging the roof, can cause shingles to become deteriorated. Also, there is a risk of falling branches and limbs which can cause severe damage to even the newest of roofs.
Leaky roofs are only one of many signs that it is the right time for a re-roof. Think of it this way...You don't wait until you hear metal clanging around in your vehicle's motor before you change the oil, so why would you wait until you have roof leaks before you change your roof? Once a roof begins to have leaks and other problems, your re-roof project will most likely cost you more money than normal, due to rotten wood, wet insulation, deteriorated plaster or drywall, etc. Not to mention, roofing rarely gets less expensive as time goes on. Most likely, the longer you wait, the more it will cost, for many reasons.
This is a common misconception. The number of years associated with a shingle have much more to do with the warranty rather than the expected lifespan. In fact, there is a good chance that those same "30 year Architectural Shingles" are being marketed by the manufacturer today as "Lifetime Architectural Shingles" , and sometimes with little to no change. Breaking down a shingle warranty; now that's a subject for another time!
All Pro Roofing & Consulting LLC
(904) 337-1082 Office
(904) 545-0647 Mobile
5771 Mining Terrace
Jacksonville, FL 32257
CCC1327056