Unlike other aspects of your home, your roof is usually out of sight. Because the average homeowner doesn’t see their roof up close very often, most don’t know as much about roofing as they do other aspects of their home. Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked roofing questions.

When should I replace my roof?

There’s no straightforward answer because your roof’s lifespan will depend on a number of factors. One of the biggest determining factors is the type of roof that you have. If you’re like most homeowners, you have an asphalt shingle roof. Asphalt shingle roofs account for 90% of all residential roofs in the United States. Asphalt shingles come in varying grades. Most manufacturers make a 30 year shingle, a 40 year shingle, and a 50 year shingle. These numbers refer to the length of the warranty though the actual roof never lasts that long. Assuming your roof was installed properly and that it’s well maintained, a typical asphalt shingle roof should last around 20 years and 40 and 50 year shingles can last even longer. Other roofing materials are more expensive but have a longer lifespan. Some materials like metal or slate may not need to be replaced during your lifetime.

No matter what kind of roof you have, improper installation, failure to maintain it, and severe weather can shorten the lifespan. So while you might have a rough idea of how long you can expect your roof to last, ultimately, you’ll need to have it inspected from time to time. When your shingles begin to lose granules or crack or curl, your roof is nearing the end of its life. Consult with a professional roofer to get a better idea about how much life your existing roof has left in it.

Should I consider metal roofing?

As already mentioned, asphalt shingles are by far the most popular roofing material, but metal is probably the roofing material growing in popularity the fastest. For most homeowners who visualize a metal roof, they picture a bland, commercial-looking roof. But metal roofing has come a long way and can now come in many colors and styles. It can even be made to look like other more expensive roofing materials.

Metal roofs are a lot more expensive than asphalt shingle roofs. Usually 2-3 times more expensive. But keep in mind that a metal roof will save you money over time because they require a lot less maintenance and don’t need to be replaced nearly as often. Talk to a professional roofer to see if a metal roof could be a feasible option for your home.

How should I clean my rain gutters?
Though not part of your roof, exactly, your rain gutters are a part of your roofing system because they allow water to get off of your roof. Clogged or damaged gutters can eventually cause damage to your roof, siding, and foundation. To clean them out, work from a ladder rather than from on top of your roof. Use a trowel to remove leaves and other debris. Don’t use a pressure washer, though it’s faster, because it can cause damage to your gutters and shingles.

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Source: mykawartha .com/shopping-story/5600392-frequently-asked-questions-roof-maintenance-and-installation/