How do you know when it’s time to replace your roof? This question is often stressful for many homeowners because it’s difficult to tell if your roof is in good or bad shape. As a trusted Wichita roofing company, we get a lot of questions about the lifespan of roofs and when repairing or replacing is appropriate. There is no short answer for how long a roof lasts. However, Dingers Roofing & Construction understands that every situation is unique, so we’re here to give you the specific knowledge and tools to understand when to replace your roof in Wichita.
Factors Affecting Your Roof’s Lifespan
Residential roofing is engineered to maximize its lifespan. From shingles to underlayment every part works to strengthen your home from external factors that shorten the lifespan. Here in Wichita, extreme weather conditions, roofing materials, the age of your home, installation quality, and roof maintenance all impact roof shingle lifespan. Let’s look at these factors in more detail.
| Wichita’s Weather and Climate | Roofing Materials and Age of Your Home | Roof Installation and Maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| Cape Analytics says more than 34% of home insurance claims come from wind, water, and hail damage to roofing. Since roofing is made to withstand normal wear and tear over time, the main concern is severe weather. Some studies even show that consistent severe weather, like that in Wichita, can reduce a roof’s lifespan by up to 30%. | Choosing the right roofing material is a core part of your roof’s health. Premium roofing materials, like metal, slate, or impact-resistant shingles, will have a higher lifespan but may not be in the budget. On top of that, older homes may have structural issues that affect roof performance, limiting what materials you can use and how effective they are. | The quality of your roof’s installation and maintenance directly affects its lifespan. Even premium materials can fail early if installed incorrectly. So always choose a certified and licensed professional you can trust. Additionally, regular maintenance, including seasonal inspections and prompt repairs, can extend your roof’s life by catching small issues before they become major problems. |
8 Signs of Roof Damage in Wichita
Every roof is different, especially when it comes to materials and how they show damage. However, there are general signs to look for when doing your inspection. Keep an eye out for some of the following signs. If you notice several of these issues at the same time, calling a professional and scheduling an inspection is best.
| Cracked, warped or missing shingles |  | Sagging or drooping corners visible from the ground |  |
| Roof leaks in or around your attic |  | Dark spots or streaks |  |
| Balding or bare shingles |  | Shingle granule loss in gutters and on other shingles |  |
| Mold or rot on your roof or attic |  | Damaged flashing around chimneys, vents and valleys |  |
Assessing Your Roof’s Age and Condition
One of the most important things to consider is the age of your roof and how long the material is supposed to last. This Old House states that most roof systems last an average of 25-50 years. This range is large, but not a guarantee. For a more in-depth look at material lifespan we put together a guide on “what the longest-lasting roofing material is for a home.” As for this discussion, if your asphalt shingle roof is approaching 30 years or more, it may be wise to look at replacement options.
If you don’t know the age of your roof there are several ways to estimate it yourself.
- Check home records – look for purchasing contractors etc.
- Inspect shingle conditions – pay attention to the extent of the damage.
- Assess neighboring roofs – if similar houses near you have replaced roofs it may be time for yours too.
- Consider material type – the best shingles in Wichita depend on quality and specific need
A Step-by-Step Walkthrough for DIY Roof Inspections in Wichita
- Practice Safety
- Don’t get on your roof or attempt inspections during high winds, rain or icy conditions. And if you’re ever unsure, always contact a roofing contractor.
- Inspect Your Roof From the Ground
- Look for any noticeable or visible storm damage around your home
- Keep an eye out for any cracks in the roof or under any awnings and gutters
- Check for moss, algae, and bacteria build up or any trapped moisture
- Examine Shingles for Signs Your Roof Needs Replacing
- Look for cracked, curled or missing shingles, along with any discoloration
- Pay attention to granule loss and inspect bald spots or granules in gutters
- Remember to check areas that are exposed to direct sunlight
- Examine Flashing
- Look for rust, corrosion and impact damage
- Also pay attention to gaps or separation between flashing and roofing material
- Take note of any water staining
- Assess Your Attic
- If you have accessible attic, check for:
- Water damage or roof leaks on the underside of the deck
- Mold or mildew growth
- Daylight shining through the roof
- Proper ventilation
- If you have accessible attic, check for:
- Document Your Findings
- Take pictures and plenty of notes for insurance claims if necessary
- Note the location of any problem areas
- Schedule a Professional Follow-Up
- If you find any significant damage or have concerns, contact a qualified roofing professional.
- A professional inspection can provide a more thorough assessment and identify hidden problems.
Important Safety Reminders
- Never climb onto the roof yourself unless you have proper training and safety equipment.
- Be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards (power lines, slippery surfaces).
- If you’re uncomfortable with any part of the inspection, consult a professional.
Why Choose A Local Wichita Roofing Company
DIY roofing inspections can be an incredibly useful tool when understanding your home and when you should replace your roof. But remember, many of the larger issues such as damage, replacement, and extensive roof repairs should be left to professionals. As a local roofing company in Wichita ks, Dingers Roofing & Construction can help with your unique needs. If your roof is showing signs of damage, contact us for a free inspection.