What wears a Colorado roof out faster
- Hail. The big one. Even hail that doesn't cause leaks right away can knock granules loose and crack the mat, which shortens the roof's life. See how often it hits your town in our hail history.
- Sun at altitude. Strong UV dries out asphalt and wears down the protective granules.
- Wind. Gusts break shingle seals and lift tabs. See wind damage.
- Freeze and thaw. Snow melts and refreezes, which is hard on flashing, valleys and gutters.
- Ventilation. A hot attic bakes shingles from below.
Roof types compared
| Roof type | What to know in Colorado |
|---|---|
| Architectural asphalt shingles | The most common roof here. Warranty terms are long, but hail and sun usually decide when it needs replacing. |
| Impact-resistant (Class 4) shingles | Built to resist hail better than standard shingles. Learn more. |
| Metal roofing | Very long lifespan and sheds snow well. Large hail can dent it. Learn more. |
| Flat / membrane roofs | Drainage and seams matter most. Learn more. |
Signs it's time to replace
- Bald spots or lots of granules in the gutters
- Cracked, curling or missing shingles
- Leaks, or repairs that keep coming back
- Sagging areas or soft spots
- Several hail storms since the roof was installed
Not sure where yours stands? A free roof inspection tells you how much life is left. If storm damage is the reason it's wearing out, insurance may cover the replacement.