Industry experts generally agree that the average lifespan of a New Jersey residential roof is about 20 years. But they all agree that in reality this varies widely. Some have seen roofs require replacement in less than 10 years or those that last for nearly 60 years. What is the difference between these two roofs and how can a New Jersey homeowner ensure that they get the maximum lifespan out of their roofing? What are the signs that your needs to be replaced before it becomes even more costly to do so? To follow are a few tips.
Be vigilant about Regular Maintenance
Sure it can be a chore to get out and clean the gutters or clear snow, but doing so can be some of the best preventative maintenance. It’s recommended that gutters be cleaned once in the summer and twice in the fall. Heavy snow should be kept off the eaves and cleared out of the ridge vents. In wet climates, utilize a spray mildew cleaner. Consult with a professional for a maintenance plan customized to the weather and surroundings of your residence.
As you are performing these tasks, be paying attention to the condition of the roof. It is quite possible for a New Jersey homeowner to replace missing or damaged shingles or tiles on their own. It is a relatively simple process, but if you have any doubt as to whether you can perform the repairs safely, don’t hesitate to contact a roofing professional. Always keep in mind that roofing accidents can be deadly.
Ensure your roofing is built to last
If you are buying a home or replacing a roof, consider working with a New Jersey roofing professional to evaluate the quality of the materials and installation. A faulty design can lead to premature problems and it’s possible for a weak or improperly attached roof to collapse from weight. Again, take the climate and conditions into consideration. Homeowners in warm areas may want to consider reflective roofing products to reduce interior cooling expenses. In snowy climates, leaks can occur when an ice dam forms when snow melts near the ridgelines of warm roofs. The best prevention of ice dams is a well-ventilated roof.
Be Watchful of the condition
As much as you want to prolong the life of a roof, at some point you will need to acknowledge that it is time to replace it. If it is nearing or more than 25 years old and you observe some of the following symptoms, you may want to call in a professional for an assessment.
1. Your energy bill has been creeping up without any other explanation
2. You notice leaking frequently or in many places (can be indicated by stains on interior ceilings or in the attic)
3. There are many shingles missing, torn, damaged or decayed
4. Shingles are excessively cracking, curling or blistering
5. The sheathing or siding is in decay.
