When to Replace a Roof in North Carolina

Roofs may be a long-lasting part of our homes, but they don’t last forever. No matter what material they’re made out of, every roof will eventually need to be replaced. But how often does a roof need to be replaced and how do you know when you need to do it in North Carolina?

How Often Do Roofs Need to Be Replaced?

How often a roof needs to be replaced depends on the material it’s made out of. Shingle roofs can last between 15 and 30 years, depending on the type of shingles. Metal roofs can last between 40 and 70 years before needing to be replaced. The actual lifespan of a roof may be shorter than the expected lifespan if you live in an area that gets harsh weather. North Carolina, for example, gets hit by hurricanes, which can decrease the lifespan of a roof. That’s why it’s important to recognize when a roof needs to be replaced.

How Often Should a Roof Be Inspected?

Having your roof inspected regularly is a good way to make sure you catch any roof damage early. You should have your roof inspected at least once a year. If you know what you’re looking for, you can inspect your roof yourself. However, you may want to hire a professional to do it instead. A professional may recognize signs of roof damage that a homeowner might miss.

If your home has just been through a hurricane, you should have the roof inspected immediately afterward. Hurricanes can cause a lot of damage that could only get worse if left unaddressed.

What Are the Signs a Roof Needs to Be Replaced?

While you should hire a professional to inspect your roof, you can also keep an eye out for signs that it needs to be repaired or replaced. What you need to look for will differ depending on the material your roof is made out of. Some damage can be repaired, but widespread damage will most likely necessitate a complete roof replacement.

Signs a Shingle Roof Needs to Be Replaced

If you have a shingle roof, keep an eye out for these signs that it needs to be replaced:

• The roof looks worn and old
• The shingles are curling up at the edges
• Your neighbors are getting new roofs
• Your roof is twenty years old or older
• Moss is growing on your roof
• There are bald patches where shingles are missing granules
• The shingles are cracked
• There are dark streaks on the roof
• The roof is sagging
• There are missing shingles
• Shingles are loose
• The roof is leaking
• There’s mold or rot
• There are holes on the roof

Signs a Metal Roof Needs to Be Replaced

Metal roofs generally last longer than shingle roofs, but they don’t last forever. Look for these signs that your metal roof needs to be replaced:

• There’s visible rust
• The metal panels are deteriorating
• Metal panels are loose
• The fasteners are wallowing out
• The painted finish is 30 years old or older
• The painted finish is damaged
• The roof is leaking
• There’s visible damage after a storm

For informational purposes only.