Understanding How to Tell the Age of Your Roof
The roof is an integral part of any building, and its age determines the maintenance and repair services required to keep it in good condition. However, it can be challenging to determine the age of an existing roof, especially if you didn’t install it. But, knowing how old your roof is will help you to avoid costly repairs. In this article, we will discuss some steps you can take to tell how old your roof is.
1. Check County Records:
One of the most effective ways to tell how old your roof is by checking the county records or contacting the property appraiser’s office. This is because building permits are required by law whenever a new roof is installed. Therefore, you can request a copy of the permit from the government agency where it was filed. The permit should indicate the build date of your roof, which will help you to calculate its age.
2. Contact Mid-Atlantic Remodeling:
Another way to estimate the age of your roof is by contacting the contractor who installed it. They would have a record of when they completed the installation and can provide you with an estimated age of your roof. However, if the original contractor is unavailable or out of business, you can contact a licensed roofer to inspect your roof and determine its age.
3. Roof Inspection:
One of the most effective ways to determine the age of your roof accurately is to schedule a roof inspection. A licensed roofer can assess the condition of your roof, identify any repairs required, and give you an estimate of your roof’s age. This service can help you stay ahead of the game and respond promptly to any issues that may arise before leading to costly repairs or replacements.
4. Visible Signs of Aging:
Another way to estimate the age of your roof is by looking for visible signs of aging. This includes missing or curling shingles, mold or mildew growth, and roof leaks. A roof that has missing or curling shingles implies that it is old and needs replacing. Similarly, mold or mildew growth and roof leaks are clear indications of an aging roof and the need for repairs.
5. Roofing Material:
The roofing material used can tell you a lot about how old your roof is. For example, if your roof is made of wood shingles or shakes, it is more likely to be older than a roof made of asphalt shingles. This is because wood shingles have a shorter lifespan and are not as common in modern roofing. Therefore, understanding the roofing material used can give you an idea of your roof’s age.
Knowing how old your roof is the first step to taking good care of it and ensuring that it serves your building well. By following these steps, you can determine the age of your roof, plan for maintenance or repairs, and prepare adequately for replacements when the time comes. Remember that without regular maintenance, even the most durable roof materials have a limited lifespan. So, it’s essential to have a licensed roofer regularly inspect and maintain your roof to ensure it stays in good condition for years to come.
