It’s really easy to take your home’s roof for granted—especially when it’s in good condition and not causing any problems. However, it’s important to stay educated and keep an eye on your roof because it is your home’s main defense against the outside elements.
The average lifespan of a typical roof is between 20-30 years. Depending on weather conditions, however, a roof may need replacement in as little as 15 years. In Milwaukee and the surrounding areas, roof damage can be caused by severe storms or intense “freeze-thaw” cycles. If you’re not sure how old your roof is, a simple roof inspection by a professional can give you a good estimate.
In addition to knowing how old your roof is, you should also keep an eye out for warning signs that your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan.
Things to watch for include: missing, cracking, or curling shingles. You likely have roof damage if your roof’s shiny fiberglass mat is exposed. Another telltale sign of a deteriorating roof is any interior water damage to your attic, ceilings, or walls.
If water is getting in from the outside, you should take immediate action to stave off secondary problems such as potential water damage, structural issues, or mold.
Unless you’re experienced at walking on roofs or know all the telltale signs, it’s recommended that you get a professional opinion. Getting a professional roof inspection can tell you if your roof problems are isolated—and can be repaired—or if the integrity of the entire roof is compromised and will need to be completely replaced. It’s always safest to have an experienced roofer complete your roof inspection, as they are trained in safety measures and know exactly what they are looking for.
If you are starting to see some of these signs, that doesn’t automatically mean you need to replace your roof. Sometimes your roof might just need repair rather than complete replacement.
You can help extend the life of your roof by being proactive about roof inspections and maintenance. Things to inspect regularly include plumbing vent boot flashings, caulking around flashings, masonry and skylights, and checking for popped-up nails and skylight window seams.
Most roofing companies will offer free roof inspections as part of providing you with an estimate for a new roof. If you are buying or selling a property and need a roof inspection, there is typically a charge which is often credited toward any work you end up having done on your roof (much like a car mechanic diagnostic).
There are many factors that affect the cost and length of time it takes to replace a roof—including your property’s square footage and the type of materials that are used. If you need a new roof, your roofing contractor will provide you with a detailed cost estimate and timeline, and talk you through the entire process.
At Tri-County Contracting, we have a showroom where you can see, touch, and learn about various roofing styles and options to making the best decision for your home. We find that this option can be really helpful when making a long-lasting decision as a homeowner. Replacing your roof is both a practical and an aesthetic choice—you should make sure the color and style of the shingles fit your home’s exterior.
Many homeowners find that investing in a new roof with Tri-County pays for itself many times over over the course of the years. We prioritize using high-quality materials, including some options that come with 50+ year warranties.
We also have a unique 10-year annual roof inspection program. With this program, you can set up preventative annual inspections for up to 10 years with Tri-County’s professional roof inspectors. We will visit the home every year to complete a thorough inspection and address any roofing issues that may have developed during the inevitable “freeze-thaw” cycle experienced by homes in the harsh Wisconsin climate. This program allows you as the homeowner to make sure your roof is working great for years to come.
Get full-service roofing services in the greater Milwaukee area with Tri-County Contracting! You can call us at (262) 679-6100 or contact us to learn about our home exterior and roof contracting work.
We’re here to help with all your roofing needs.
