At some point during your years of homeownership, you will have to determine the age of your roofing system. Maybe you’ve noticed a few shingles out of place or suddenly a leak has appeared, causing you to consider whether it’s time to replace the roof. Knowing the age of your roof is a big part of maintenance, repairs, and planning ahead for a potential replacement.
But figuring out how old your roof is can sometimes feel like solving a mystery, especially if it was installed before you purchased your home. That’s why we’re here with this guide, to help walk you through the process of determining your roof’s age, why it matters, and what to do once you have a better idea of where your roof is in its lifespan.
Why Knowing Your Roof’s Age Is Important
Before we dive into determining the age of your roof, let’s talk about why it’s so important to know how old your roof is in the first place.
Maintenance and Repairs:
Roofs don’t last forever. Over time, they wear down due to the harsh weather conditions, such as the type areas like WNY are known for. Knowing your roof’s age helps you anticipate maintenance needs, such as when to inspect for damage or when to budget for repairs. This is extremely important when you have just bought a new home!
Planning for Replacement:
Roofing materials have a lifespan. Asphalt shingles, for example, usually last 15 to 25 years, while metal roofs can last up to 50 years. If your roof is approaching the end of its expected lifespan, it’s better to start planning for a replacement now, rather than being caught off guard later.
Insurance and Real Estate:
If you’re dealing with homeowner’s insurance or thinking about selling your home, you’ll want to know the age of the roof. Insurance companies may charge higher premiums for older roofs, and potential buyers will want to know how much life the roof has left before they need to make repairs or replacements.
How To Find The Age Of Your Roof
Check Home Improvement Records
One of the simplest ways to determine your roof’s age is to check any home improvement records or documentation you have. If you or a previous owner had the roof replaced or repaired, there’s a good chance there are records of it somewhere.
Typically, roofing companies provide detailed receipts for their work that outline the work that was done and the materials that were used. Look for these in order to determine the roof’s age.
Check local building permit records as well. In WNY, many municipalities require a building permit for roofing work, especially new roof installations and roof replacement. This permit includes the date your roof was installed, which will help determine the age.
Ask The Previous Owners
If you purchased your home from someone else, they might have information about when the roof was last replaced or repaired. This is often included in the seller’s disclosure documents during the sale, but if not, don’t hesitate to reach out and ask as there is a high chance they are the ones that installed your current roof.
If you are not in touch with the previous owners or don’t know them, try talking to your neighbors.
Inspect The Roof Itself
If you can safely do so, take a look at your roof. The condition of the shingles, tiles, or other roofing materials will give you some clues about the age. Here are some examples of what to look for:
Shingle Granules: If you notice a lot of granules in your gutters or downspouts, it might indicate that your asphalt shingles are nearing the end of their life.
Curling or Cracked Shingles: Shingles that are curling at the edges or have visible cracks are often a sign that the roof is aging and might need replacement soon.
Look for Manufacturer’s Stickers or Labels
In some cases, roofers might leave behind stickers or labels on the underside of the roof’s decking or in the attic space, which can include information about the roofing materials and their installation date. This can be extremely helpful if you can find one, giving you an exact date, or at least a timeframe to work with.
Consult With A Roofing Professional
If you’re still unsure about your roof’s age or if the roof’s condition is questionable, it’s a good idea to bring in a roofing professional. Try to locate the roofing company that initially installed your roof. They may have records of the installation date and materials used. If you can’t find the original installer, reach out to reputable roofers in your area.
Experienced roofers can often estimate the age of a roof by examining its condition and knowing what to look for in terms of wear and tear. Plus, they might be able to spot issues that you wouldn’t notice.
What To Do If Your Roof Is Nearing The End Of Its Life
If you’ve been able to determine the age of your roof, and you find out it’s reaching the end of its lifespan, what should you do? Here are a few things you can consider in order to manage an aging roof.
Consider Regular Inspections
If your roof is older but still holding up, start scheduling regular roofing inspections, ideally once a year. A roofing contractor can catch small issues before they become big, expensive problems.
Contact our team today if you want to schedule a free roof inspection.
Budget For A Replacement
Roof replacements can be expensive, so if your roof is approaching the end of its lifespan, start budgeting now. Depending on the size of your home and the materials you choose, a new roof could cost anywhere from $8,000 to $24,000.
When it’s time to replace your roof, you’ll have a variety of materials to choose from, each with its own benefits and price points:
Asphalt Shingles: Affordable and easy to install, with a lifespan of about 15 to 25 years.
Metal: More expensive upfront but can last up to 50 years or more and is highly durable.
Tile or Slate: Extremely durable, with lifespans that can exceed 50 years, but they’re heavy and may require additional structural support.
If you want to deep dive into roofing costs, check out the following blog posts:
- A Homeowner’s Guide To Types Of Roof Shingles And Their Cost
- How Much Does A Metal Roof Cost In New York?
Don’t Forget About Ventilation
A roof is more than just shingles. Proper ventilation is key to extending the life of your roof. Poor ventilation can lead to moisture buildup, which can cause mold growth and shingle damage. When replacing your roof, make sure your contractor addresses ventilation to protect your investment.
Understand The Warranty
When you get a new roof, make sure you understand the warranty that comes with certain roofing materials. Some warranties cover materials for 25 to 50 years but may have different terms for workmanship. Knowing the details can save you from hassle down the line.
Get A Quality Roof Inspection Or Replacement In Buffalo, NY
If you find yourself uncertain about the age of your roof, don’t hesitate to consult with one of our team members. At Buffalo’s Best Roofing Company, we can provide an expert opinion, help you understand your roof’s condition, and guide you through further steps such as a roof replacement or repairs. After all, your roof is your home’s first line of defense against Buffalo’s harsh weather, so keeping it in good shape is one of the best investments you can make.
Contact us today at (716) 276-3673 to learn more!