How Often Should Roof Shingles Be Replaced?

Shingles Need To Be Replaced?

Homes located in the Coconut Creek, FL area are subject to a variety of weather. And these different types of weather can a take toll on a roof. Shingle roof replacement and repairs are common insurance claims in this area.

How does the weather affect a shingle roof?

Two of the biggest enemies to a shingle roof are heat and humidity, both of which are present in the Florida area. Heat and humidity go hand-in-hand with the heat causing the shingles to crack and the humidity causing moisture damage. The end result is a complete shingle roof replacement job.

Then there is condensation build-up that can cause damage, along with other factors:

Rain

Being on the coast, rain is a common event that can affect a shingle roof. This makes it important for a homeowner to pay attention to possible leaks, requiring shingle roof replacement or repair. Even the smallest crack can make a roof vulnerable and result in more consequences if not caught and addressed early.

Snow

Snow can be a beautiful thing, we all dream of a white Christmas. But that pretty white stuff can cause a lot of roof damage when combined with rain and wind, all of which are common here in Coconut Creek, FL. Snow seems fluffy and light, but when it piles on a roof, it becomes heavy and can damage the gutters and the roof, resulting in shingle roof replacement if repairs aren’t possible.

Wind

A roof that has the slightest loose shingle, a missing nail, or even a slightly cracked shingle, a strong wind coming off the water can pull the shingles off, leaving the roof vulnerable to leaks. If repairs aren’t addressed early on, you’re left needing a complete shingle roof replacement.

How often do homes in Florida need asphalt roofs replaced?

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in Coconut Creek, FL. A high-quality asphalt shingle has a life expectancy of up to 30 years when installed professionally and routine maintenance is followed by the homeowner. However, not all homes in this area have asphalt shingle roofs. Other types of roofing material and their lifespan expectancy include:

  • Wood Shingles: A lifespan up to 40 years with proper installation and treatment.
  • Metal Roofing: A lifespan of up to 50 years with proper installation, some metal roofing has lasted up to 70 years.
  • Tile Roofing: A typical lifespan of 50 years is normal, but this is one of the most expensive options in roofing material.
  • Slate Roofing: Another expensive option for roofing material but has been known to last over 100 years.

How much does an asphalt shingle roof cost in Florida?

Quoting prices on anything is arbitrary, including a shingle roof replacement. Approximate estimates for a 1,500-square-foot home, basic asphalt shingles are between $6.00 per square foot and $10.00 per square foot. The pricing can vary between roofing contractors and the quality of the asphalt shingles.

Is it cheaper to roof over existing shingles?

Yes, it would be a money-saver to have a new asphalt shingle roof replacement installed over the existing roof, but the question is whether it is acceptable within the building codes and within the homeowner’s insurance policy. Many cities do not allow installing a new roof over an existing roof due to safety concerns. And most, if not all insurance companies will decline any claims if the insurance adjuster discovers an old roof under the newest roof.

What time of year is best to replace a roof?

the Coconut Creek, FL area, autumn/fall is the best time of the year for a new asphalt shingle roof replacement to be installed. The temperatures are comfortable this time of the year, and the weather is mild. This makes the installation part of the new roofing to be done faster too.

Top Off Your Home

Are there specifics to know when new asphalt shingle roof replacement is needed? Yes, there are key indicators that your home needs a new asphalt shingle roof replacement:

  • Missing Shingles: Common results of high winds coming across the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Damaged Shingles: Another common result where a shingle roof replacement is needed is hailstones along with high winds and hard rains.
  • Roof Leaking: A shingle roof replacement is needed when there are obvious leaks. Not all roof leaks are obvious though, which is why routine roof inspections are recommended for possible hidden leaks.

Other possible causes that can result in a home needing an asphalt shingle roof replacement is structural damage to the house that can affect the roof from wind damage. Missing roof flashing, damaged skylights, damaged vents, or signs of wood rotting on or along the roofing, fascia, etc.