How Often Should I Replace My Roof in Minnesota?
Replacing your roof in a timely manner can save you from bigger concerns like internal leaks and structural home damage. “But how do I know when to replace my roof?” Good question.
Understanding when to replace your roof isn’t always obvious, as every roof will have its own lifespan based on its environment and how you care for it. Below, our expert roofing contractors at Elite Remodeling Services discuss everything you need to know about deciding when to replace your roof in Minnesota. If your roof needs replacing, call our team at (952) 646-2480 to schedule a free estimate.
The Average Lifespan of Common Minnesota Roofing Materials
The largest determining factor in how often you need to replace your roof is the type of material it’s made from. Some roofing materials only last a couple of decades, while others last nearly a lifetime.
Keep in mind that average lifespans are not an exact science. You can use these estimates simply for a rough idea of how long your system may last.
Here are the average lifespans of some of the most common roofing materials in Minnesota:
- Asphalt shingles: 15 to 30 years
- Metal roofing: 40 to 70 years
- Wood shake: 30 to 40 years
- Concrete and clay roofing: 50 to 100 years
- Slate roofs: 50 to 100+ years
- Flat roofing deck systems: 10 to 20 years
Does Every Roof Last as Long as the Expected Lifespan?
“So, are the above numbers a good guide for how often I should replace my roof?”
Yes and no. In many cases, you should not expect your roof to reach the upper end of its expected lifespan because many unforeseen factors can affect how long your system lasts.
On the other end, the estimated lifespans provide a good guideline to keep in mind in case you approach the beginning of that range. For example, if you have an asphalt roof that’s within the 15-to-20-year range that hasn’t begun displaying issues yet, you may want to consider replacing it now before you’re stuck with expensive repair bills.
Factors Impacting Your Roof’s Lifespan
The following factors can affect whether your roof reaches the top end of its expected lifespan:
- The installation: You must have your roof installed by experienced home improvement professionals who know how to follow all the best practices for optimal longevity. One minor installation mistake can cause all sorts of issues, like leaks, down the line.
- Your maintenance frequency: Most roofing systems require frequent maintenance, such as removing debris, replacing shingles, and more, to mitigate minor issues so your system can last as long as possible. If you do not conduct regular maintenance, your system likely will not reach its full lifespan potential.
- Storms: Major storms, particularly those with heavy hail, wind, or falling debris, can damage your roof beyond repair, requiring you to replace it early on.
- The climate: Roofs may not last as long in unforgiving climates with extreme UV rays or heavy snowfall. Minnesota’s snow levels may reduce your roof’s lifespan.
- Your roof pitch: Roofs with shallow pitches can collect water, causing numerous drainage problems. You may not achieve the same longevity if your roof does not have the proper components in place to prevent water absorption.
How Can I Tell When I Should Replace My Roof?
With so many factors at play, understanding when to replace your roof isn’t easy. Here are a few signs indicating that your roof may need to be replaced:
- Curling or buckling shingles
- Water stains in your upper interior rooms
- Damaged flashing
- Missing shingles
- Moss or mold growth on any roofing components
- Sagging lines when viewing the roof from a distance
- Clogged gutters
- Interior leaks
Still Not Sure If Your Roof Needs To Be Replaced? Call Elite Remodeling Services
“I’m still not sure if I need to replace my roof; what should I do?” Call Elite Remodeling Services in Farmington, MN, today at (952) 646-2480, and our expert roofers will inspect your system.
