How Often Do Roofs Need to Be Replaced in Kansas?

When it comes to weather, you can do worse than Kansas. The summers are pretty warm, the winters tend to be mild, and the humidity is relatively moderate. And if nothing else, this is good news for the roof of your home. 

The lack of harsh weather means you likely aren’t at common risk of roofing damage. However, your roof does have a lifespan. Every roof does, but this doesn’t mean that every roof is the same. Some roofs have a longer span than others based on roofing materials used, as opposed to location.

So how do you know when it’s time to replace your roof? There are some general rules of thumb to follow, which we’ll get into here:

How Often Should A Roof Be Replaced?

Again, these are just average lifespans, but they tend to ring true for homeowners in Kansas. 

Roofs with asphalt shingles, for example, tend to last between 20 to 30 years. Asphalt shingles are some of the most common shingles used because they are durable. They are also cost-effective, which makes them appealing to homeowners. 

And since asphalt shingles last upwards of 20 years, homeowners feel they are a good investment for their home. They are easy to repair and withstand the standard elements that any Wichita homeowner would experience.

If you have a slate roof, you can wait a bit longer on your replacement than if you have asphalt. A slate roof can last upwards of 100 years. There is no question that this high average lifespan is appealing. Plus, slate roofs are resistant to fire and mold, which is another bonus. 

Slate roofs, however, can chip more easily than something like asphalt. It is also much heavier, which is a significant consideration. This doesn’t have to be a deal breaker for homeowners but is worth being aware of. Additionally, slate roofs tend to be more expensive. 

While some people see this cost as a long-term investment, others tend to consider additional options. Ultimately, it comes down to your preference and timeframe.

Wood roofs are another popular option, and have an average lifespan of about 40 years with proper maintenance and care. While more expensive than asphalt, homeowners like the appearance of wood shingles. They provide a good-looking curb appeal and are durable overall.

Metal roofs are becoming a popular choice for homeowners due to the fact that they are environmentally friendly. They also provide a modern feel that homeowners appreciate. And metal roofs have an average lifespan of over 50 years and provide good insulation year-round. For many homeowners, this is worth the cost.

This is by no means a complete list of the roofing types. But these examples are some of the more popular options. There are other types of roofs, and depending on your situation, the average lifespan might be different. It is worth looking into the type of roof you have and getting a professional opinion.

Things To Consider When Replacing a Roof

There are all sorts of considerations to make when choosing to replace a roof. Firstly, are you replacing your roof for aesthetics or because you have to? There are some people who feel they should not replace their roof unless it’s leaking. However, we strongly disagree with this approach. 

The longer you wait, the more costly it could be. Additionally, there are other areas of damage that can occur to a roof besides leaking. And different types of damage to your roofing can mean different types of damage inside your home.

For example, small gaps can allow space for small critters to enter your roof. This can create additional problems. If your roof is wearing thin, for instance, it can cause problems with your insulation. Sometimes these areas cannot easily be seen, which is why we recommend having inspections done. 

Depending on the reason you need to replace your roof, it is worth considering if there is an option through insurance. While this approach takes a bit more paperwork and time, it could work in your favor if your claim qualifies. 

Have a professional look at your roof and let you know what your situation is. Some people prefer to replace damaged shingles only, while some people might prefer an overhaul. The bottom line is that there are general guidelines for how often you should replace a roof. But each roof is different, so see where you stand with yours. 

Contact us for a free estimate and see how your roof is holding up.