The age of your roof is a huge factor when determining whether or not it’s time for a replacement. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to tell exactly how old your roof is just by looking at it.
However, that doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. In fact, there are multiple ways to learn the age of your roof by doing some light detective work.
For over 30 years, the team at Bill Ragan Roofing has provided transparent roofing information so that homeowners can make confident decisions. That’s why I want to help you under the age of your roof and much more.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- How do you figure out how old your roof is?
- Why do you need to know how old your roof is?
- 4 visible signs that it’s time for a roof replacement
How do you figure out how old your roof is?
One of the easiest ways to figure out the age of your roof is to check your records or public records. If you’ve had it replaced before, you should have something (receipt, invoice, etc.) with the project date to refer back to.
If your area requires permits, check with your county or city government’s public records and request a copy of the residential building permit. If you bought your home after it was replaced, you can also ask the previous homeowners if possible or check the inspection report for the estimated age.
While these are great resources, the best way to learn the age of your roof is to get an inspection from a reputable local roofing contractor. Not only will they tell you the age, but also how much life it has left.
Unfortunately, some roofing companies will try to sell you a roof regardless of the age or how many years it has left. That’s why I recommend getting opinions from multiple roofing contractors to avoid this happening to you.
Why do you need to know how old your roof is?
Knowing the age of your roof is helpful for both you and your roofing contractor. Your roofing contractor needs to know so they have a good idea of the appropriate next steps, such as repairs or a replacement.
While it’s helpful to roofing contractors, it also helps you know when it’s the right time to replace your roof before it’s too late. Waiting too long leads to water leaking into the interior of your home, structural/drywall damage, and creates a perfect environment for mold to thrive.
Unfortunately, it’s hard to know when to replace your roof if you don’t know how long it’s supposed to last. For example, an architectural asphalt shingle roof has a manufacturer-stated lifespan of 30 years.
Once your roof’s age reaches around 80-85% of its maximum lifespan, you’ll know it’s time to start budgeting for a roof replacement. However, getting a jumpstart on budgeting at the 20-year mark is a good idea to avoid any sticker shock when the day comes.
I understand you don’t have time to worry or think about your roof’s age in your everyday life. That’s why I recommended getting a yearly maintenance roof inspection to keep track of its age and maximize its lifespan.
4 visible signs that it’s time for a roof replacement
Now you know how to figure out the age of your roof. As I said, you can’t tell how old your roof is just by looking at it without experience.
However, there are warning signs you can actually see on your roof. Below are 4 visible signs that it’s time for a roof replacement.
1. Vegetation growth
The first visible sign that your roof needs to be replaced is when there’s vegetation growth on the shingles themselves. Moss and other vegetation growing on your roof is a clear sign that you have an older roof, and it’s time to start considering a replacement.
You may also notice some black streaks on your roof caused by algae. Algae can grow on a 10 to 15-year-old roof, but it doesn’t necessarily mean it needs to be replaced because of it.
Algae can actually be cleaned off your roof. However, you need to do your research and hire a professional roof cleaning company that knows how to soft wash.
2. Cracked, curling, or missing asphalt shingles
The next visible sign that it’s time for a replacement is if your shingles are cracked, curling, or missing altogether. Seeing curling and/or cracked shingles are a clear sign that a roof has reached the end of its lifespan.
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Unfortunately, it can be hard to spot cracking or curling shingles without getting on your roof. On the other hand, missing shingles or full sections are more obvious to spot.
The extent of the damage determines if you get a roof replacement or a patch job. Just know you may have an insurance claim if wind is the cause of missing shingles.
However, improper installation is also a big cause of missing shingles. If this happens, you’re left with no recourse unless your workmanship warranty is in effect.
3. Granule loss on the asphalt shingles
The next visible sign that you need a new roof is when your asphalt shingles experience granule loss. Granules are pieces of asphalt embedded in shingles for fire resistance, color, and UV ray protection to ensure the longevity of an asphalt roof.
(Granules in gutters)
Losing granules is natural and happens as your roof ages. But you’ll know it’s actually time for a replacement when you find loose granules in gutters or on the ground around downspouts.
(Granules on the ground)
Just know that a strong hail storm or a lot of little hail also leads to granule loss. In this case, you may have an insurance claim if you notice loose granules after a big storm.
But no matter the situation, loose granules in your gutters or on the ground is a huge sign that it’s time to start budgeting for a new roof.
4. Rotting or discoloration on the bottom of the decking in your attic
While the other signs listed here can all be seen from the outside, the next one requires attic access to check the bottom of your roof decking. Roof decking is the wooden foundation of a roof system that the roofing material and other roofing components are directly installed on.
(Discolored roof decking)
If you see rotting or discoloration on the bottom of the decking in your attic, you need a new roof or, at the very least, expensive repairs. This means water got underneath your roofing materials and soaked through the wood.
This leaves your roof decking’s integrity compromised, which can cause serious structural issues. If it’s widespread and left to sit, you could even have your roof cave in when the decking can no longer hold the weight.
It can also lead to health hazards like mildew and mold forming in your attic. Unfortunately, you won’t know the full extent of compromised decking without tearing off your old roof first.
No matter what, you need to contact your roofing contractor if you notice rotting or discoloration on the bottom of your roof decking.
The things you need to consider when replacing your roof
Now you know 4 visible signs that it’s time to replace your roof. If you notice any of the signs or your roof is on the older side, you’ll most likely need a roof replacement.
Just remember that you won’t truly know what your roof needs until after an inspection from a local roofing contractor. But before reaching out to them, there are some things to keep in mind when replacing your roof.
While there’s still plenty to learn, these considerations are everything a homeowner needs to know before a roofing contractor even pulls up to their home. That’s why I wrote another article breaking down what to consider when getting a roof replacement.
Check out The 5 Things to Consider When Replacing Your Roof so you’re fully prepared when meeting with potential roofing contractors.
