What Causes A Florida Roof To Wear Out?

Living in the sunny Florida climate may seem like a dream, but there are many things about being a Florida homeowner that can lead to a rude awakening if a little knowledge and foresight isn’t applied. All homeowners have to deal with wear and tear on their roofs, but in Florida, we have additional concerns when it comes to keeping a roof from wearing out. Let’s jump in and see what those are!

A Roof’s Lifespan Is Primarily Determined By Its Type

First and foremost, what can determine a roof’s lifespan is the type of roof that is installed: metal, wood, tile, slate or asphalt are just a few options. Let’s break down these roof types and how long their lifespans are.

Asphalt Shingle Roofing – being the most affordable doesn’t mean longest lasting. Asphalt roofs usually last 15-20 years with proper installation and maintenance, but they are the most often used material since many people no longer live in their homes for more than 20 years.
Metal Roofing – with proper installation, a metal roof can last over 50 years. As long as it is treated with a protective coating, little maintenance is needed.
Tile and Slate Roofing – while tile roofs can last 50 years with proper installation and maintenance, slate roofs can last up to 100 years with proper care. Just know that slate roofs are very heavy and require a quality structure to hold them in place.
Wood Shingled and Wood Shake Roofing – wood roofs can last 30-40 years with proper installation and care. Wood roofs should be regularly inspected, as they can damage easily and are not a good choice for challenges of the Florida climate.

Weather and Climate Are A Big Factor For Roof Longevity

Though all homeowners deal with weather and climate issues, a Florida homeowner encounters some extra special situations. From sun to wind to rain, we get to enjoy some of the most gorgeous sunsets and beach days but also face some of the most extreme weather challenges. A few of the most common weather and climate issue include:

Wind Damage From Storms and Hurricanes – strong winds can lift or tear off shingles, leading to water damage and more. Be sure to use wind-resistant materials when possible, and always fix damaged shingles as soon as they are noticed.
Sun Exposure – just as UV rays affect your skin, they can also affect your roof. Be sure your roof has a protective coating when possible, to help repel the UV rays and extreme heat.
Rain and Water Infiltration – whether it’s mold and mildew from a leak, or moisture buildup from inadequate ventilation, water damage can affect more than just the roof. Waterproofing the materials and choosing water resistant products can help mitigate water damage.

Environmental Factors Play A Big Role In the Lifespan Of Your Roof

Something that all homeowners deal with is the environment, and those factors include general organic debris, pollution and damages from animals. Here are some suggestions to help:

Damage from Fallen Branches, Limbs, and Trees – small branches can scratch shingles and depending on the weight, some can even cause dents. Be sure to prune any overhanging branches to keep damage to a minimum.
Clogged Gutters from Organic Debris – pine needles, small sticks and leaves can clog your gutters and collect on a roof, leading to a build up of moisture or even new plant growth. Be sure to clean out your gutters and brush off any collections of debris on a regular basis.
Damage from Pollution – some areas are prone to acidic rain, and urban environments cause chemical buildup that can weaken or discolor the surface. If your roof experiences this, schedule regular cleanings to help prevent permanent damage.
Damage from Animals – whether they have chewed their way in for shelter or have used the roof as their bathroom, damage from animals can compromise insulation and waterproofing, weakening the integrity of the roof. Install animal-proof vent covers, use repellant, and trim overhanging tree branches.

Poor Maintenance and Neglect Can Shorten the Life of Your Roof

Unlike renters who depend on property management to maintain buildings and roofs, homeowners are responsible for their roof maintenance, and any neglect can help shorten the lifespan of the roof. Be sure to schedule regular maintenance if it’s something that can not be done on your own, and immediately attend to any issues that arise from storm damage. Without proper care and maintenance, not only will costs increase to fix the larger issues that will eventually arise, but property values can decrease, and safety and health hazards will affect those living in the home.

The Quality of the Original Roof Installation Dramatically Effects How Long It Lasts

There is one consideration that may not even have happened during the time you owned your home – the quality of the roof installation. Many current homeowners may not have had a say in how their current roof was installed, but it’s important to realize that how the roof is installed is just as important to its longevity as the materials it was made of.

When buying a home, typically an inspection will show any roof issues, but it’s always a good thing to take a look for yourself: is the flashing laying flush? Are there shingles missing or not uniform in placement? Know what you’re getting into, and understand what you can do if you’ve recognized a roofing issue. A poorly installed roof will not last as long as it should, and knowing when it needs attention can help prevent major damage.

Now that we’ve seen just what may cause wear and tear on a roof, you might be able to decipher what issues your roof is dealing with and how you can fix it. If you have any questions on the viability of your current roof, reach out via our contact form or call, and let us help!

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