How Long Will Your Austin Roof Last?

Whether it’s a new construction or just a new roof, you want it to last as long as possible. So just how long is possible? That will depend on several factors – some of which are in your control, others of which are not.

Below, we’ll discuss how long you can expect a new asphalt-shingled roof to last in Austin, factors that affect its lifespan, and how to prolong the timeline as long as possible.

Understanding Your Roof’s Lifespan

First, the hard truth. Asphalt shingles, even those marketed as 30-year shingles, rarely last 30 years on homes in Central Texas.

More realistically, the average lifespan of an Austin roof made with asphalt shingles is roughly 20 years. 

Poor ventilation in the home can affect a roof’s lifespan. This can lead to a buildup of heat and humidity in the attic, which can more quickly age the shingles. Rain, hail, wind, and other natural disasters can quickly damage an otherwise good structure.

How to Prolong a Roof’s Lifespan

The best and most effective way to help your roof go the distance is to stay on top of maintenance. Admittedly, this can be more challenging than caring for other parts of your home. For one, it involves a ladder, and often this type of work is best left to a professional with the equipment and experience to do it safely. Moreover, it can be easy to forget about our roof as it’s not something we may consciously think about daily.

We also recommend calling roofing experts for annual roof inspections. This is an easy way to prevent expensive problems from surfacing because it lets you keep up with more minor repairs. Keeping up with repairs is almost always better for your budget and will prolong your current roof’s life. 

What To Do in a Roofing Emergency

If only there were an easy button to pull in the event of a roofing emergency. Unfortunately, it’s not always so simple. 

Step one is to safely assess the situation. Many roofing emergencies include leaks, and anytime water is involved, you must take the problem seriously. If a storm is raging outside, climbing up on your roof is not a good idea. Use common sense as you evaluate the level of danger present. Evacuate if necessary.

If it’s a leak, limit the damage inside your home. Put out buckets to catch drips, fire up the dehumidifier, and relocate valuables or possessions susceptible to water damage.

What Not To Do During a Roofing Emergency

You may be tempted to start repairing the problem during an emergency. Your adrenaline is high, and you kick into survival mode. We know this feeling and have been there, too, but this can be dangerous. 

Taking smart and safe precautions to limit the damage is one thing, but do not put yourself at risk.

What to Know Before Getting Your Roof Repaired

When you decide you’re ready to repair or replace your Austin roof, you might fall into one of two camps:

1. You’re either ready to get it done as quickly as possible so you can move on to other things in your life, or 
2. You research the process to death and possibly never take action.

We’re here to help you find a middle ground so that you can confidently move forward with a roof repair when the time is right. Here are three areas to consider when it’s time to take action on your roof.

Get Quotes

Always get more than one quote. Even if a roofer comes highly recommended by someone you trust, call up a few roofing companies to compare costs and better understand their level of professionalism and quality of workmanship. 

While gathering quotes, you’ll get to know a roofing company and should have a better sense of your experience working with them. Cost is essential, but you want someone experienced, professional, licensed, and insured.

Consider Repair vs. Replacement

Do you need a full roof replacement, or will a repair do? A trustworthy roofing company will be honest and upfront with you about the state of your roof. If you haven’t had a roofing inspection in years and have been a little, shall we say, lax with your maintenance, it’s possible a replacement may be in the cards. If your roof is relatively new and the damage is localized, a repair will generally be cheaper. The bottom line is you should consider all your options, understand the cost of a roof replacement, and evaluate if the benefits are worth the price for your specific situation. 

Evaluate Materials

Numerous roofing materials are available, with asphalt shingles remaining the most popular. Before you choose the most popular choice, however, consider your other options so you feel confident about your decision. 

The decision to move forward with a roofing project is a major one. Don’t rush it, but don’t be afraid to lean on experts to help you wade through your options. That’s what we’re here for. If you need insight into residential or commercial roof repairs and replacement in Central Texas, contact Storm Guard of SW Austin today.