Category: Roof Repair and Reroofing

Roofs are a major investment for a property. Roofs cost a lot of money to install, and it’s important to understand all the factors that play into the lifespan of a roof. If you’re looking to replace your roof, there are several factors that play into the average lifespan of a roof. From material type to even the color of your roof, it all impacts how long your roof will last. Here are some factors that contribute to the longevity of your roof.

Material type

Most roofs last between 25 and 50 years, but it can depend on many different factors. One of the key elements contributing to the average lifespan of a roof is the type of material used on the roof.

• Metal Roofs: This is an excellent choice for longevity as these roofs can last between 50 and 80 years. With proper maintenance, they can last even longer.
• Asphalt Roofs: Most asphalt roofs last between 20 and 30 years. This is also one of the most common materials used in roofing.
• Wood Shakes: These roofs generally last between 20 and 40 years, depending on the quality of wood and materials, and the climate.
• Rubber Shingles: Rubber shingles are excellent for the eco-conscious consumer. This type of roof can last an estimated 30 years and is easy to repair and install.
• Clay and Concrete Tiles: This is a great option for those who are looking for a long-lasting roof. The average lifespan of this roof is roughly 50 years. And even better, they are fire and insect resistant.
• Slate: Slate is the longest lasting roof and is a heavy duty, premium material. This type of roof can last up to a century.

Slope

Pitch of roof impacts drainage. Poor drainage can involve more frequent roof repairs or replacement. Flat roofs and roofs with low slopes should be more careful to check for water damage, which could lead to mold or fungus growth. Water accumulation can also contribute to roof leaks as well.

Ventilation

Ventilation is crucial to your roof health and proper ventilation can go a long way to ensure your roof is in good repair. Poor ventilation can contribute to your roof overheating or freezing, leading to roof leaks. However, proper ventilation can also make your home or property more energy efficient, costing you less in the long run.

Weather & Elements

The climate and sun exposure to your roof plays a large role in the average lifespan of your roof. By choosing durable options, you limit the impact from those elements. However, conditions such as wind, hail, tornados and other storms can still damage your roof. This is where routine roof inspection services come into play for preventative maintenance.

Quality of Installation

When considering a roof replacement service, it is important to review the qualifications of the contractor conducting the replacement. Other things to consider include whether the contractor has proper insurance and liability coverage as well as their reviews. A bad roofing job can decrease the lifespan of your roof drastically, and no one wants to pay for bad workmanship. Ensuring that the contractor is qualified can go a long way to increasing the lifespan of your roof.

Routine Maintenance

Occasional roof maintenance extends the lifespan of your roof. Roofing inspections can detect any damage that may need a roof repair or other warning signs that a replacement is necessary. Many contractors suggest getting annual roof inspections, and more frequently if you experience storm damage.

Quality of Materials

Another factor contributing to the average lifespan of a roof is the quality of the materials used. Like most things, there are both high- and low-quality materials. A good contractor will suggest quality materials and explain the impact on roof longevity. Low quality materials often lead to more frequent roof repairs and a shorter lifespan, costing more money overtime.

Color of Materials

In some instances, the color of the shingles can impact your roof’s life expectancy. Lighter materials are suggested for warmer climates as they absorb less heat than dark materials. Overheating shingles also experience more wear, contributing to worse ventilation.

Underlayment

Underlayment is another major factor in the longevity of your roof. Underlayment offers a layer of waterproof protection in case the exterior roof gets damaged. It also prevents moisture build up leading to mold and prevents the roofing materials from rotting.

When to Replace Your Roof

Regardless of the average lifespan of each roof type, staying up to date on routine inspections can keep you informed of your roof’s health. There are several warning signs to keep an eye out for including:

• Leaks and water damage
• Pest infestations
• Visible damage to your roof and exterior
• Discoloration of ceilings
• Damage to roofing materials

Improving the Lifespan of Your Roof

Proactive maintenance goes a long way to ensure your roof can withstand the test of time. While an annual inspection is ideal, some companies recommend quarterly inspections as each season brings different issues. Spring and summer often bring storms, wind and hail. Fall brings extra debris, requiring routine gutter cleaning to avoid roof damage. Winter is the time to tell if ventilation is an issue. When ventilation is inefficient, ice dams will build up along your roofline or cause leaking in your home. For flat roofs, it’s crucial to regularly ensure the drainage is effective and there’s no build up on the roof.

Final Thoughts

If your roof is nearing the end of its life expectancy, begin planning and saving. Consider contacting a roof replacement service to discuss replacement options ahead of time. This way, you’ll be prepared and educated on what to expect when it comes time to replace your roof.

Looking for a roofing inspection or installation? Capital Exteriors and Renovations is ready to help. We have experienced, insured and licensed contractors available for all your roofing needs.  Contact us through our contact form today for your free quote.

Insurance and hail damage are notoriously a pain. No one wants to incur costs for issues like this, nor work through the insurance claims process. However, we have several suggestions to help you navigate your claim process for roof hail damage.

Things to Remember About Insurance

First and foremost, remember that insurance companies are for-profit businesses, so they have an incentive to pay out as little as they are able. While they aren’t scammers, they will carefully analyze and examine your claim to check that the damage is covered by your policy.

Also remember that many insurance companies will not accept a claim for longer than a year since the damage was incurred, so timeliness is key.

Steps to Take Prior to Making a Roof Damage Insurance Claim

Document Damage

To improve your odds of having your hail damage claim covered, take detailed photos of the damage from the ground. Attempt to estimate the size of the hail, but DO NOT go up on the roof.

Take Proactive Steps to Prevent Hail Damage from Worsening

While you should avoid a proper fix for the roof during this step, try to cover the damage with a tarp to protect your home while going through the claim process.

File a Claim

What is a claim? A claim requests your insurance company to cover the repair payments from the damage incurred. This is based on your insurance coverage. Ensure that you contact your insurance provider shortly after the damage occurs, and your agent will ensure that you understand what kinds of damage your policy covers, in addition to explaining the next steps. In this stage, you should also be prepared to share photos and details of the damage.

Gather Hail Damage Repair Estimates

After talking to your insurance agent, contact several repair contractors to gather roof repair service estimates. Contractors should check your roof, screens, fences, A/C units, and windows. Most insurance agencies want at least one quote prior to formally meeting, but it never hurts to have a few additional quotes as well.

Something else to note: If most of the local area is impacted by this hailstorm, contractors may be over inundated with work, so timeliness is critical to ensure you receive a quote for your insurance.

Educate Yourself on State Laws and Homeowners’ Rights

State laws often list rights and obligations in instances like this, as well as detailing the actions an insurer will take, and the timeframe in which your claim must be processed. Understanding these details will help you work through the claim process.

Meet with Insurance Adjuster

Your insurance will have you meet with an insurance adjuster to review the cause of the damage and assess the total covered cost. You should be prepared to share your notes, the photos of the damage, and all estimates for roof repairs. From that information, your adjuster will compile a report to submit to the insurance company to process the claim.

Your insurance may initially offer you a payout that doesn’t fully cover the repairs quoted by the contractors. However, you do not have to accept this initial offer. In this case, your insurance adjuster will work with you to reach an agreement. If an agreement cannot be reached, you can hire an independent adjuster and submit a new report to your insurance company for a higher payout. If this doesn’t work, you can file a dispute with the state insurance commissioner or hire an attorney. However, these options should be a last resort as these are more extreme and costly measures to take.

Receive Payout

Once your claim has been reviewed, approved, and you’ve accepted the settlement, you will receive a payout for the cost of the repairs subtracted from your deductible.

Hire Contractor

While your insurance may direct you to use a specific contractor, ultimately you have the final say on the contractor hired. When selecting your contractor, ensure that you review their background and licensure. If you work with an unlicensed contractor, you may end up forfeiting your payout.

Ready to Hire a Contractor to Repair Roof Damages?

Capital Exteriors and Renovations is a licensed provider offering roof damage repairs, among many other services. Contact us today for your free quote, or give us a call at 704.618.0526.