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Your roof shingles take a beating daily. Their job is to take the punishment—wind, rain, snow, hail, sunlight—so your home doesn’t have to. But like anything exposed to the forces of nature 24/7, it won’t last forever.
Knowing when it’s time to replace your roof isn’t always easy. While a leaky ceiling is an obvious (and very late) sign, many of the early warning indicators are more subtle. At Legacy Construction, we’re a roofing company that believes informed homeowners make the best decisions, and we’re here to help you understand the signs that your roof may be ready for a replacement.
Whether you’re dealing with an aging roof or just want peace of mind, here’s what you should know.
How Long Does a Roof Last?
Not all roofs age the same way, and some may need replacement far sooner than others, depending on the materials they are made of, the climate, and how well maintained they are. Minnesota weather is notoriously harsh on roofs. The winters have heavy snow, spring and summer storms bring a lot of rain and hail, and high winds storm and tornadoes are not out of the realm of possibility depending on where you live.
Here’s what you can expect in terms of lifespan from your roofing materials. Keep in mind that these lifespans are estimated:
Asphalt Shingles: 15–30 Years
Asphalt is the most common roofing material in Minnesota thanks to its affordability and versatility. Basic 3-tab shingles tend to last around 15–20 years, while architectural shingles can last closer to 30 with proper maintenance.
Cedar Shakes: 20–40 Years
Cedar shake roofs offer a beautiful, natural look, but they require more upkeep than other materials. With consistent maintenance, they can last 25–30 years on average, and up to 40 years in ideal conditions.
Metal Roofing: 40–70 Years
Metal roofs are built to last and stand up to Minnesota’s harsh climate exceptionally well. Aluminum, steel, and standing seam metal roofs can often exceed 50 years of service, with copper pushing closer to 70.
If you’re not sure what kind of roof you have or how old it is, we’re happy to help. First, let’s take a look at the signs that your current roof needs to be replaced.
7 Warning Signs You Might Need a Roof Replacement
1. Your Roof Is Over 20 Years Old
If your asphalt shingle roof is past the 20-year mark, it’s time to start planning for replacement, even if you’re not seeing major problems yet. Consider yourself fortunate at this point; your roof has lasted longer than the average. Keep in mind that roofing materials deteriorate with age, and even minor issues can escalate quickly if ignored.
2. Curling, Cracked, or Missing Shingles
Shingles that are curling at the edges, cracking, or missing entirely are signs that your roof is losing its protective ability. These areas are especially vulnerable to water infiltration and wind damage. You can sometimes spot this from the ground, but you may need to get up on your roof to see them. Just be careful if you do take a trip up there.
3. Granules in the Gutters
If you’re finding gritty, sand-like particles in your gutters or at the base of your downspouts, your shingles are likely shedding their protective coating. Granule loss is a common sign of aging asphalt roofs and can lead to accelerated deterioration.
4. Moss or Algae Growth
While not always a structural issue, moss and algae can trap moisture against your shingles, especially in shaded areas. Over time, this can cause rot and decay, particularly with wood shingles or shakes. You can remove the moss carefully, but keep in mind that it will keep coming back to eat away at your shingles over time.
5. Sagging or Uneven Rooflines
A drooping or warped section of roof can be a serious red flag. This may indicate underlying structural issues like rotting decking or water damage. Don’t wait to have this inspected, as sagging roofs can lead to major safety hazards.
6. Leaks and Water Stains
Water stains on your ceiling, walls, or attic insulation are signs that moisture is making its way in. Even a small leak can cause big problems over time, including mold growth, damaged insulation, and compromised framing. This is a late sign and means you already have issues with your roof.
7. Excessive Energy Bills
If your heating and cooling bills have been creeping up and you can’t figure out why, your aging roof might be the culprit. Poor insulation, ventilation issues, and degraded materials can all affect your home’s energy efficiency.
Replacing an Aging Roof Always Pays Off
It’s tempting to put off a roof replacement, especially if the damage isn’t immediately visible. But the longer you wait, the greater the risks, and the higher the eventual cost. If you wait to replace an ageing roof, you may run into these issues:
- Water damage
- Mold and rot
- Structural issues
- Reduced home value
- Insurance issues
How to Estimate the Age of Your Roof
Not sure how old your roof is? Here are a few ways to get a rough estimate:
- Check Your Home’s Records: if you bought your home recently, the inspection report or disclosure statement may note the last time the roof was replaced.
- Look for Building Permits: municipalities require a permit for roof replacement. A quick call to your local building department may solve the issue. This information can also sometimes be found online.
- Ask Our Team: we can often estimate the age of a roof based on material condition, wear patterns, and other factors. We may not be spot on, but we can help you get close to the roof’s age.
At Legacy Construction, we offer free roof inspections to help you determine your roof’s condition and estimate its remaining lifespan.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Your roof is more important than you know, and putting off a replacement often results in more expensive repairs. Catching signs of wear and tear early gives you time to plan, budget, and make informed decisions before small problems become major repairs.
At Legacy Construction, we understand the unique challenges that Minnesota’s climate places on residential roofs. Our team is here to guide you through the process, from initial inspection to full roof replacement, with honesty, expertise, and a commitment to quality workmanship.
Think your roof might be showing its age? Let’s take a look before the next storm does.
Contact us today to schedule your free inspection.
