Roof replacement is a costly investment for any homeowner. Understanding why roofs fail and how to prevent it can help homeowners extend the lifespan of their existing roof or plan when replacing an old roof. In this post, renowned local roofing and siding contractor Home Pro Exteriors, Inc. lists the four common reasons roofs fail.
1. Poor Installation: One of the most common reasons roofs fail is improper or uncertified installation. Contractors may not have properly sealed around vents and chimneys, interlocked shingles or applied flashing on vulnerable areas of the roof. They may also not have taken the local building regulations into account or failed to follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Thus, it is important that you work with an experienced roofer who has the necessary knowledge and experience to ensure compliance to local code and manufacturer standards when performing roof installations.
2. Poor Maintenance: A roof requires maintenance over time, which may involve replacing missing shingles, patching leaks and keeping the entire system in good shape. Without having a roof repair contractor perform these basic routine tasks, your roof will likely fail earlier than its intended lifespan due to long-term degradation or water infiltration.
3. Old Age: Another common reason roofs fail is due to old age. Even with regular maintenance, a roof can only last for so long before it needs to be replaced, typically between 15 and 20 years, depending on the material used. Asphalt shingles, one of the most commonly used materials in residential roofing systems, have an estimated lifespan of 20 to 25 years under ideal circumstances if properly installed and maintained.
4. Weather Damage: Weather damage is another common reason why roofs fail. Heavy snow, high winds, hail and other severe weather conditions can cause the roof to become damaged and overstressed, leading to leakage issues and a shorter life span.
Keep your roof in top shape by having it inspected by a reliable roofer in the local area like Home Pro Exteriors, Inc. We are a fully licensed and GAF Master Elite® Certified company with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Whether you’re in need of roof repair or roof replacement, we’re happy to provide our professional recommendation of the best solution for your project. Call us at (845) 343-1777, or fill out this contact form to request an estimate.
