To determine the age of a roof, check building permits, review records from previous owners, contact the original roofing contractor, or have a roofing professional estimate the age based on current condition. Knowing this info can help you plan proactive maintenance and detect problems early enough to fix them. Common signs of aging include worn shingles, granule loss, leaks, and moss or algae growth. Roof restoration can extend the life of aging asphalt shingles by restoring their flexibility.
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How old is your roof? Most homeowners don’t know. And even if you think you have a pretty good idea, how sure are you? Knowing the age of your roof can help you anticipate problems before they occur and take proactive steps to prevent them.
If you have asphalt shingles, it’s also a good way to find out if your home is a good fit for roof rejuvenation treatments like Roof Maxx. Each application adds up to 5 more years of life to your shingles for up to 80% less than the cost of a new roof. Reapply it up to two more times to get up to 15 years instead!
Below, you’ll learn four ways to estimate how long ago your roof was installed. You’ll also find out how to spot signs of aging early so you can take action to address them.
If your home was built or had its roof replaced within the past few decades, there’s likely a record of it in your local building department’s databases. Building permits for the original install will show the date it was put on, and sometimes, who serviced it.
This can work even if you weren’t the original owner, because in most cases, they can look up the information based on your physical address.
If you purchased your home from someone else, they might have records or receipts from the last roof replacement. Reach out to them, or check any documents provided during the home-buying process, like inspection reports or warranties.
If you don’t have this info or can’t find it, your realtor may be able to contact them or put you in touch with them.
If you know which company worked on your roof, they may have records of the installation date. Even if you’re unsure, taking a quick look at your shingles or other materials for branding and markers can still help identify the manufacturer or installer.
This gets trickier if the company is no longer in business or has changed hands a few times over the years. If this is the case for you, move on to the next step.
If all else fails, professional roofers can provide an estimate based on the condition of your shingles, flashing, and other factors. While not as precise as documentation, their expertise can help pinpoint an approximate age and identify any urgent maintenance needs.
Regular maintenance and inspections are something all homeowners should be doing anyway, because they can help you keep your roof in good condition for longer. It’s a good excuse to get caught up if it’s been a while since your last one.
Even if you know your roof’s age, understanding when it needs replacement is just as important. Most roofs last between 20 and 30 years, depending on the material. However, signs of wear and tear can accelerate the need for replacement.
Common signs your roof might need a refresh include:
Curling, buckling, or missing shingles suggest your roof’s protective layer is compromised. Shingles in poor condition allow water to seep through and cause further damage, like rot, algae, mold, or structural damage.
Roof Maxx treatments are also an option if your shingles are still in relatively good condition, but starting to look a little worn. Our safe, all-natural rejuvenation treatment soaks into the asphalt core to make it flexible again so they can perform more like they did when new.
Granules protect shingles from the sun and elements, and their loss can leave your roof vulnerable to damage. Pebbles collecting in your gutters or on the ground after storms and large bald patches are a sign your shingles may be nearing the end of their lifespan.
This is another case where you won’t necessarily need to replace your entire roof. Although losing granules can eventually weaken your shingles and make them vulnerable to breakage, roof restoration can significantly slow it down and help your shingles last longer.
Stains in your attic, ceiling, or walls indicate water is getting through your roof. This usually results from problems with or around your flashing, chimneys, skylights, or other places near the walls. This is where your roof is most vulnerable to water ingress.
Left unchecked, water damage can weaken your home’s structure and lead to expensive repairs. Roof Maxx won’t stop leaks, but it can help your shingles shed water the way they should, and some dealers offer an optional roof tune-up to help with issues like these.
While moss and algae may seem like minor nuisances, they trap moisture that speeds up the decay of roofing materials. Over time, this compromises the roof’s structural integrity.
Roof Maxx contains a natural fungicide that can help stop new moss and algae growths from forming, but it won’t fix them if they’re already there. It’s best to have them professionally cleaned before evaluating the condition of the shingles underneath.
Replacing a roof is a major investment. Most people can expect to pay somewhere around $7,500 to $14,000 or more, but that doesn’t mean it’s always the best choice. Roof restoration can help you get more life out of your existing roof for up to 80% less!
Roof Maxx’s all-natural spray rejuvenates shingles by restoring the flexibility that allows them to expand and contract with the weather. A single treatment can help extend the life of your roof by up to 5 years and save you thousands. Get a free quote now to see if you qualify!
With our five-year, transferable warranty, you’ll enjoy the peace of mind that your roof and entire home are protected.
