Exploring the Factors Affecting Roof Lifespan in New Jersey

If you love gardening, you’ll understand how challenging it can be to grow a thriving plant from a seed. Your little seedling needs the right conditions — quality soil, water, and sunlight — to grow into a mature plant. Even with a healthy foundation, it’ll need ongoing love and care that includes watering, pest deterrence, and regular pruning. In return, your beautiful plant will reward you by staying strong, giving you joy, and perhaps even flowering! 

When you think about it, your New Jersey roof is just like that. 

Unfortunately, no roof lasts forever — but if you give it a solid start and ongoing care, it can serve you and your family well for decades to come. Are you curious about what you, as a proactive homeowner, can do to make your roof last as long as possible? Keep reading to find out!

Choosing the Right Roofing Materials

If you’re gearing up for a roof replacement in New Jersey, you’ll inevitably aim to strike a balance between cost, durability, and aesthetics. The roofing materials you choose determine your roof’s potential lifespan. 

Generally speaking:

• Asphalt shingles last somewhere between 25 and 30 years on average, although some luxury shingles can last longer. 
• Metal residential roofing is exceptionally durable and can last you 50+ years in some cases.
• Solar shingles, which generate energy on your rooftop, have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years.
• Clay and concrete roof tiles have impressive lifespans of at least 50 years, so long as they’re well-maintained. 
• Slate tiles are nearly indestructible and can remain in place for well over a century. 

Working with Experienced Roofers

Hiring a team of experienced, skilled, and extensively trained roofers who aren’t satisfied with anything but the best quality work is one of the most essential tips to make your roof last as long as possible. 

A meticulous installation sets you up for a roof that won’t give you any problems down the road — and it’s the best gift you could give yourself. How do you get it right? We advise you to start by making sure that any roofing company you’re considering is licensed, bonded, and insured. Pay attention to any additional certifications, too. For example, Fortified Roofing is a GAF Master Elite contractor, and our A+ Better Business Bureau rating also offers peace of mind. 

To look deeper, ask your roofer about customer testimonials and pictures of completed projects! 

The Weather

New Jersey’s weather may not be as turbulent as some other states, but we still get winter storms, nor’easters, heat waves, and occasional hurricanes and tropical storms. All of these weather-related factors can impact roof life expectancy. While everyone knows that storms can cause roof damage, not everyone knows that heat waves make shingles deteriorate faster. 

You can’t change the weather, but you can act quickly if you know or suspect that the latest storm or other intense weather has damaged your roof. By addressing roof repair needs quickly, you’re doing the right thing in prolonging your roof’s life.

Roof Maintenance

How long does a roof last in New Jersey? There is no hard and fast rule, but one thing is clear. By scheduling regular roof inspections (at least once a year), you can catch budding roof issues before they become massive headaches. 

Likewise, having your gutters cleaned regularly plays a critical role in keeping your NJ roof healthy. Other maintenance steps homeowners can take to prolong their roof’s lifespan include increasing attic ventilation, having any nearby trees trimmed regularly, and acting quickly when they spot signs of pests, mold, or mildew. 

Schedule a Thorough Roof Inspection Today

When did you last have your roof inspected? If you don’t remember, there’s no time like the present. As a leading roofing contractor in Hamilton, NJ, the Fortified Roofing team is your trusted partner on your mission to make sure your roof lasts as long as possible. Don’t hesitate to call now and schedule your free roof inspection!