Ahh, the roof. That one part of your house you never think about until it starts causing problems. But how do you know when it’s time to bid your old roof adieu and welcome a shiny new one? Here are three ways to tell your roof is at the end of its life.
1. Age
Let’s start with the obvious: age. How old is your roof? Most roofs last between 15 and 25 years, depending on the material and the quality of the installation. If your roof is pushing 25 or beyond, it might be time to start thinking about a replacement.
Of course, age is just a number, right? Well, not when it comes to roofs. As your roof ages, it becomes more susceptible to damage from weather, pests, and other wear and tear. So don’t be surprised if your old roof starts springing leaks or losing shingles.
2. Wear and Tear
Speaking of wear and tear, that’s another way to tell if your roof is ready to retire. Take a look at your roof from the ground (or from a safe vantage point, please don’t climb up there yourself). Do you see any missing or cracked shingles? Any sagging or unevenness? Any signs of rust or corrosion on metal parts?
If so, that’s a surefire sign that your roof has seen better days. Even if your roof isn’t quite at the end of its life, it’s worth considering repairs or maintenance to prevent further damage.
3. Energy Bills
Wait, what do energy bills have to do with your roof? As it turns out, quite a bit. Your roof plays a major role in regulating the temperature of your home. If your roof is old and worn, it might not be doing a great job of keeping heat in during the winter and out during the summer. That means your HVAC system has to work harder to keep your home comfortable, which leads to higher energy bills.
If you’ve noticed your energy bills creeping up over time, it might be worth taking a closer look at your roof. A new, energy-efficient roof could save you money in the long run.
So there you have it, three ways to tell if your roof is at the end of its life. May your roof never leak and your shingles never blow away!
Paul Nault
Owner, Nault Builders
Still not sure? Reach out to paul@naultbuilders.ca, and we can arrange a time for a free assessment of your roof. Weather permitting, I’ll even go up on the roof and take some measurements for a free quote!
