If you’re planning a roof repair or installation with a roofing contractor, one of the first questions they will ask is the roof’s age. In today’s post, Patriot Roofing LLC discusses why the question always comes up during discussions about roofing, and why it’s important for you to know the answer.
Roofing Life Span
All types of roofing systems have expected life spans. For example, a standard asphalt shingle roof is expected to last 20 to 30 years with proper care and maintenance. Roofs are exposed to wear over the years, and won’t be in the same condition as they approach the end of their expected life span.
The roof’s age is useful for roofing contractors when determining the best way to treat roofing problems. It wouldn’t be practical for a roofer to perform repairs on a roof that’s several years beyond its age — it would be a temporary solution at best, and it wouldn’t be long before the roof will need repairs again. Knowing the roof’s age will also give you ample time to prepare for a roof replacement.
How to Determine Your Roof’s Age
If you don’t know your roof’s age, don’t worry. There are several ways to find out.
Find the roofing documents. If you’re the house’s first owner or have overseen the last roof replacement, you should still have related documents — your roofing contract, a copy of the receipt or the building permit. If you took a loan on it, financing documents may have this information. The roofing company that built or replaced the roof may also have records.
Past messages. Old emails and messages sent between you and the roofing contractor may also provide a clue.
Ask the previous owners. If you’re still in touch with the previous owners, they may have the documents that you’re looking for, or may point you in the right direction, like the roofing contractor that installed the roof.
Have your roof inspected. Failing the above options, you can have your roof inspected by a roofing contractor. Roofers are trained to recognize signs of roof wear and can get a fairly accurate estimate of its age.
Patriot Roofing LLC is your leading provider of roofing and gutter installation services. Give us a call at (405) 289-8807. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in Norman, OK, and the surrounding communities.
