How Often Should You Replace Your Roof in Massachusetts?

Roofing materials have a specific lifespan, after which you will need a new installation. Thus, a roof replacement is necessary to keep enjoying the protection roofs offer.

But the question is, how often should you replace your roof in Massachusetts? In other words, how long does a roofing material last?

It mostly depends on the material quality, installation quality, and local conditions, among other factors. You may have come across the 20-25 years rule in your research, which is the general guideline for replacing a roof. And most roofing systems fall within this window.

But with the factors mentioned above, you can't wait for all that long when you have missing shingles on your house. Or perhaps the roof boards were not installed properly, and now they can’t hold the roof in place anymore.

With that in mind, replace your roof whenever you feel the need to.

Keep reading this guide to find out more.

How Long Does a Roof Last in Massachusetts?

Working with a reputable roofing contractor can give you the longest-lasting roof. The roofing material will withstand weather challenges for 25 to 30 years without many issues. So, if your existing roof has been up for this long, you will need to consider an upgrade.

But age is not the only reason to replace your roof. When falling tree branches and large debris cause cracked shingles on your roof, you may need a full roof replacement, depending on the extent of the damage.

Besides, the 25 to 30 years most focus on composite and asphalt shingles as they are the most popular materials in the USA. Even so, the timing for roof replacements will vary if you consider the other parameters.

According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, asphalt shingles will give you 20 years of solid performance before demanding a replacement. And if you get a reliable installer like Nova Home Improvements, you can be sure of more years. Quality is always something worth noting.

Factors That Determine Roof Replacement Frequency

As you can see, you can replace your roof for a certain period. The exact time depends on certain key parameters discussed below.

Age of the roofing system

When was the last time you replaced that roof? Age is always the biggest factor in roof life. You will start noticing damaged shingles or rust on metal roofs after their lifespan elapses. We have talked about the 20-25 years on asphalt shingles for the best quality, but others will only serve for 10 to 15 years.

Types of material

The type of roofing material on your roof perhaps carries the biggest influence on roof durability.

Here is a breakdown:

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in this region of their affordability. A complete replacement is required approximately after 20 years. But that depends on the type.

Architectural shingles can last for up to 30 years. But you have to hire the best roofing company to get this.
A 3-tab asphalt roof will only last for about 20 years, and you will need to replace your roof.

Build-up-roof (BUR)

This is another popular roof type in Massachusetts and surrounding areas like New England. They can last for 30 years when properly done.

Tiles

With tiles, you may not need a roof replacement for a lifetime. These are the longest-lasting materials, with an approximate lifespan of over 100 years.

Metal

Metal roofs are quite durable. However, it also depends on the metal type and installation quality. Generally, you will have 40 to 80 years before they start showing signs of repair jobs. Here is a breakdown per material type:

Copper. These roofs can last for over 70 years.
Zinc. The most durable material that will easily give you over 80 years.
Aluminum. These roofs will easily last for over 40 years with proper maintenance.

Slate

Certified home inspectors recommend slate as the most durable roofing material in the world. It will be 80 to 150 years before you replace the roof. However, some maintenance is necessary to keep off dark spots and other issues.

Modified bitumen

For commercial roofs, modified bitumen is a reliable material. It is flexible and not easily affected by moisture. These roofs will last for about 20 years before requiring a replacement job.

Simulated slate

Simulated slate is not the most common type of roof in these regions. However, it can be quite durable when installed properly and when you choose the right quality. The roof will give you at least 10 years and, at most, 30 years.

Fiber cement

You can enjoy shelter from fiber cement for 25 years without any roof problems. It is a strong and durable material with impressive performance.

Maintenance and care

Proper maintenance is the best way to get the most from your roofing system. Most roofing companies will advise you to hire a professional for such tasks.

Regular home inspection services will reveal issues like curled shingles, loose shingle granules, and other issues that may call for a quick roof repair job. It will also tell you early warning signs that you need a new roof. So, maintain your roof properly, and you will avoid surprises.

Local Weather

The roof protects us from external elements. That means it is directly exposed to extreme weather conditions like high winds, freezing temperatures, rain, and scorching sun.

Hail damage is investable during certain seasons of the year. You need to be ready for a roof replacement during such conditions. You never know when storm damage may hit. But when it does, a roof replacement may be unavoidable.

The roof design

A well-designed house and a properly installed roof protect you for a long time and save you energy costs. Pitched roofs are generally longer lasting than flat roofs due to water flow risks. That is why the best roof installers will take time to determine a roof’s design and integrity before installing new material.

There are other aspects of the roof that will make it last longer too. Adding on gutters will ensure water flows properly, avoiding pooling and damage to your house. You will also need to replace these components when installing a new roof.

Material quality

When you trust the right roofers to work on your house, you are sure of getting the best material. Thus, you will never have to worry about durability, mold, leaks, or replacing your roof too soon.

Roofing materials come in different qualities within the various types, which a reliable contractor will know. Perhaps you have noticed that some shingles or metal roofing materials are more expensive than others. The most expensive materials will often take longer before being replaced.

How Do You Know Your Roof Needs a Replacement

Most homeowners wait until it is too late before they look for roof replacement services. You can avoid that by looking for early warnings and booking a replacement in good time.

These signs include:

Light inside your house from the roof

Even without a flashlight, you can always notice any light shining through your roof, especially from the attic. If this happens, you are also at risk of moisture and water damage.

Sagging roof

Do you notice an area of your roof that seems to be sagging? You need to consider a roof replacement since it might mean deeper structural issues. Perhaps the external pressure on the roof has become too much for the system to hold. Call for an expert roofer to take a look.

Minor roof damages

Unfortunately, any roof damage will only get worse. So, if you notice a few missing shingles or some areas with uneven lines/curls, get ready for a replacement. If the repairs cost close to or more than the price of a new roof, there is no need for it.

Double layers

Many homeowners use two layers on their roofs to reduce replacement costs. While adding a second layer seems economical, it has too many downsides. For instance, you won’t fully understand the extent of the damage unless you pull down the entire structure. This might cost you more in the long run.

Also, the two layers may attract too much heat, leading to premature deterioration. The roof overlay may also not give space for an ice barrier, which only becomes an even bigger problem. You know how winter can be unforgiving.

You want to sell your house

Potential buyers will look at every aspect of your home to determine how much they will pay. So, you don’t want to give them any reason to question its value. And a good way to do so is to replace the roof. You can then include this as a factor when bargaining for the best prices.

Do You Need a Roof Replacement? We’ve Got You Covered.

Choosing the right roofing contractor is extremely crucial. It will determine the quality of service you get and how long it will take before you need a replacement service.

We are the most trusted and competent roofing company in Massachusetts. Our team is known for offering the highest quality roofing services with a focus on customer satisfaction. It is no wonder most of our customers are referrals and repeat.

Choose Nova Home Improvements because: