Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, but since it’s hard to see the entire structure from below, it’s also one of the easiest to forget about – until there’s a problem. You can go months or even years assuming that it’s fine until one bad storm hits and water starts flooding the attic.

When you know the age of your roof, it’s easier to plan for maintenance, budget for repairs, and avoid expensive surprises down the road. But if you don’t have the paperwork or the previous owner wasn’t sure, how do you figure it out? This guide shares practical tips for finding out when your roof was last replaced, so you can determine if it’s time for a new roof.

Bach Roofing Company is a professional roofing company serving Metro Detroit. A member of our team can come out to provide you with a quote and help you confirm whether or not it’s time to replace your roof. Contact us to schedule your free quote consultation.   

Start With Your Own Records

Before checking with other sources, take a look at any documents you have about your home. If you purchased it recently, you can try checking your closing paperwork, as the home inspection report usually includes details about the age of the roof. On the other hand, if you’ve been living there for a while, search for any receipts, warranties, or invoices related to roof work. Even if you don’t identify an exact replacement date, you might find clues that give you a rough estimate.

Ask the Previous Homeowner

If you bought your home from someone else, the easiest way to get answers is to ask them directly. Some sellers keep records of home improvements, including roof replacements. Even if they don’t have exact dates, they may remember the year or the name of the company that did the work, so it’s always worth a quick call or email.

Check With Your Roofing Company

If you know who replaced your roof but can’t remember when, then contact the roofing company that did the job. A reputable company keeps records of past projects, and they should be able to tell you when the installation took place. Even if they only did minor repairs, they may have notes about the condition of your roof at that time, which can give you a better sense of its age.

Look at Building Permits

Many cities and towns require permits for major home improvements, including roof replacements. If you don’t have records of your own, your local building department might. Call or visit their website to check if there’s a permit on file for your address. Doing so can give you an official record of when the work was done.

Check the Shingles

Some shingles have date stamps on the back. These date stamps provide a manufacturing timeline, which can help determine when the shingles were installed. While this method isn’t exact, it gives a general timeframe for when the roof was last replaced.

It is important to note that many roofing materials come with warranties that start on the purchase date. If you can find the warranty details, you might be able to determine when the shingles or other roofing materials were bought and installed. If you know the brand and type of roofing material, contacting the manufacturer directly can help you retrieve purchase records and warranty dates.

In some cases, shingle packaging or labels might still be present in the attic or other storage areas of your home. These labels often contain batch numbers and manufacturing dates that can assist in determining the roof’s age. 

Consider Hiring a Roofing Professional

If you’re still unsure, a roofing contractor can assess your roof and give you an estimated age. They will check for material wear, assess the condition of flashing and seals, and inspect underlayment layers (if accessible) to get a general idea of how long the roof has been in use.

In addition to estimating the age of your roof, they can provide insight into how much longer it may last before requiring replacement. Should it be near the end of its lifespan, the contractor will discuss replacement options and give you an idea of costs, materials, and timelines. 

Signs Your Roof May Need Replacement Soon

Even if you can’t pinpoint the exact year your roof was replaced, certain warning signs can indicate that it’s time to start thinking about a new one.  

Leaks

Leaks are one of the most obvious signs that a roof is failing. If you find puddles in your attic or water starts dripping from the ceiling during a rainstorm, it means that the roof is no longer keeping out the elements. Left untreated, serious problems like mold growth, wood rot, and structural damage can set in, so at the first sign of water infiltration, call a professional.

Sagging Spots

If a roof sags, it means that the underlying structure has weakened. Water damage is the usual problem, although other issues can cause it. If you notice that your roof appears uneven or dips in some areas, it may be a matter of time before it collapses. A professional inspection can determine the cause of the sagging and whether repairs or a full replacement are necessary.

Excessive Shingle Granules in Gutters

As asphalt shingles age, they begin to lose their protective granules. If you start seeing these granules collecting in your gutters or at the base of your downspouts, it may be a sign that your shingles are deteriorating. Without granules, shingles become more vulnerable to the elements, which increases the risk of leaks and further damage.

Daylight Coming Through Attic Boards

If you go up to your attic and see daylight peeking through the roof boards, your roof is definitely compromised. These gaps allow water, pests, and cold air to enter your home, impacting its energy efficiency, damaging the mold and insulation, and potentially leading to an infestation. Call a roofing contractor immediately.

Water Stains on Ceilings or Walls

If you see discolored patches, streaks, or bubbling paint on your ceilings or walls, it means that your roof has been leaking for a while. Even if you don’t see active water dripping, the presence of stains suggests that moisture is making its way through your roofing materials. Over time, this can lead to interior damage and the need for major repairs.

The Impact of Climate and Weather

Your roof’s lifespan is affected by the climate where you live. In Michigan, for example, roofs endure heavy snow, ice, and temperature swings, which can accelerate wear and tear. If your roof is made of asphalt shingles, extreme weather conditions can impact its lifespan and make replacement necessary sooner rather than later. 

The Lifespan of Different Roofing Materials

The lifespan of a roof largely depends on the material used. Some options last only a couple of decades, while others can protect a home for a century or more. Here’s a breakdown of common roofing materials and their expected lifespans.  

Asphalt Shingles  

Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material due to their affordability and ease of installation. Made from fiberglass or organic mat coated with asphalt and granules, their lifespan typically ranges from 15 to 30 years, depending on quality and climate conditions.  

Metal Roofing  

Metal roofs, including aluminum, steel, and copper, are known for durability and energy efficiency. They also resist damage from extreme weather, fire, and pests. Steel and aluminum roofs last 40 to 70 years, while copper and zinc roofs can exceed 100 years.  

Wood Shingles and Shakes  

Wood shingles and shakes provide a natural look but require regular maintenance. Cedar and redwood are common choices because they resist insect damage and decay. With proper care, they can last 25 to 50 years.  

Clay and Concrete Tiles  

Clay and concrete tiles are heavy but incredibly strong. They resist fire, rot, and pests, making them a popular option for properties in warm climates. Clay tiles can last 50 to 100 years, while concrete tiles typically last 40 to 75 years.  

Slate Roofing  

Slate is one of the strongest roofing materials, which is also why they last so long. Natural slate roofs can last 75 to 200 years, making them a premium choice for long-term investment.  

Request A Free Quote From Bach Roofing Company

Although they’re strong enough to shelter your family, it’s important to remember that roofs don’t last forever. If you wait too long to replace yours, you may find yourself dealing with leaks, mold, and structural damage. This is why you should try to determine the age of the roof so you have a better idea of when it may be approaching the end of its lifespan.

If you’ve determined that your roof is due for repairs or replacement, we’re here to help. At Bach Roofing Company, we take the stress out of roofing projects. Based in St. Clair Shores, we serve homeowners throughout Metro Detroit, including Grosse Pointe, Harrison Township, Chesterfield, New Baltimore, Macomb, Clinton Township, and Shelby Township. To get a free quote, call 586-244-2086 or fill out an online contact form today.