Shingle Repair: Understanding Normal Wear and Tear For Roofs

As a homeowner in Charleston, it's essential to understand the normal wear and tear of residential roofs and their lifespan. However, determining the difference between normal wear and tear and signs of damage that requires repair can be challenging. 

Today we talk about understanding normal wear and tear on your roof and what to do when it's time for shingle repair.

Normal Wear and Tear vs. Uncommon Damage of Residential Roofs

Several factors in the environment can cause damage to your home’s roof. The degree of the damage always depends on the cause, and roofing contractors will usually trace the damage to its cause to advise how best to repair it. Here are a few examples of normal wear and tear vs. unusual causes of damage:  

What Does Normal Wear and Tear Look Like on Residential Roofs?

In Charleston, normal wear and tear of residential roofs can include fading, curling, and cracking of shingles, missing or broken tiles or shingles, and moss or algae growth. Exposure to the sun, wind, rain, and other elements are the usual causes of roof deterioration and is an inevitable part of owning a home. 

Unusual Shingle Wear and Tear 

In addition to natural wear and tear, residential roofs in Charleston may also experience damage from animals, falling debris, and other external factors. For example, tree branches from a storm can scratch the roof, while squirrels or raccoons may chew through shingles or damage the underlying materials. 

While these issues may not necessarily indicate a problem with the roof's structural integrity, addressing them promptly is essential to prevent further damage.

What's the Average Lifespan of a Roof?

The average lifespan of a residential roof in Charleston varies based on several factors, including the type of roofing material used, the quality of the materials and installation, and maintenance practices. 

Here are some typical lifespans for common residential roofing types in Charleston:

• Asphalt shingle roofs: Charleston's most common type of residential roofing material is asphalt shingles. Shingle roofs typically last 20-25 years.

• Metal roofs: This material offers the best durability, averaging 50 years, and it can last up to 70 with proper maintenance. 

• Cedar roofs: A popular roofing option in Charleston, it can last between 20-25 years.

The key to extending the lifespan of your roof is regular maintenance and repair of any issues as they arise.

When is The Right Time to Call a Roofing Contractor for Repairs?

Whether the wear and tear you detect in your roof is common or rare, the following step is determining if you should call a trusted roofer or not. The best advice we can give you is that the right time to repair a roof is as soon as you notice any issues or damage. Waiting to address roofing problems like a damaged shingle or a small leak can lead to more extensive damage and costly repairs down the line.

However, since most wear and tear is unnoticeable from inside your home, professionals recommend performing roof inspections at least once a year, particularly following extreme weather events like the storms commonly experienced in Charleston.

Given the variety of issues that can happen with your roof, repairing or replacing shingles is not the only repair a contractor can handle. They frequently perform roof leak repair, fix rusted, bent, or missing flashing, or restore hail damage, among other problems. 

Additionally, if your roof is approaching the end of its expected lifespan or experiencing frequent issues, fixing a broken shingle will not be enough. Instead, it may be time to consider a new roof. 

Why Use a Professional Roofing Company? 

If your roof does require repair, it's crucial to seek the assistance of a professional roofer. A skilled roofing contractor can accurately assess the condition of your roof and provide recommendations as needed. Professionals are usually able to help with a wide range of repairs, from simple roof patching to total roof replacements.

It's important to note that attempting to repair your roof yourself or hiring an unlicensed or inexperienced contractor can result in further damage and increase the likelihood of needing more extensive repairs. A professional roofing contractor like Roofing USA has the expertise, experience, and equipment necessary to properly repair your roof, ensuring that the job is done right the first time.

Roofing USA Can Help With Shingle Repair and More

Understanding the residential roof's normal wear and tear and lifespan is crucial for homeowners. Regular roof inspections and maintenance can help prevent significant damage and extend the life of your roof. 

Whether it only needs routine maintenance or a complete replacement, Roofing USA has you covered with professional roofing services. Don't hesitate to Request a Free Inspection today if you suspect your roof may require shingle repair.