Maintenance Guides / Exterior & Structure

Assess roof age and plan for eventual replacement

Difficulty: easyTime: 30 mins

Why it matters

Asphalt roofs last 18-22 years on average. Delaying replacement past lifespan risks sudden leaks, insurance non-renewal, and emergency replacement costs (3x the planned cost). Planning ahead protects the home and spreads financial impact.

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How to do it

  • 1

    Search for documentation of most recent roof installation date in home records

  • 2

    If unavailable, examine roof from ground with binoculars for age indicators (curling, cracks, granule loss)

  • 3

    Count visible roof layers; multiple layers indicate prior repairs and reduce remaining lifespan

  • 4

    Contact prior owners or a local roofer to visually estimate installation age

  • 5

    Schedule professional roof inspection if roof is 15+ years old

  • 6

    Create budget and savings plan based on estimated remaining lifespan and replacement cost