How Often Do You Need To Replace Your Roof?

Katelyn Lewis • November 8, 2022

How often you should replace your roof depends on its age, type, weathering, and ventilation. 

weathering, and ventilation

Let’s say you have an asphalt shingle roof. In Richmond, most asphalt shingle roofs last between 17 and 25 years old, depending on the type of shingle. If you have a 3-tab, or flat-looking, shingle, its age range is lower – about 15 to 20 years – while an architectural, dimensional-looking shingle can last up to 25 or even 30 years. Plus, if your roof isn’t properly ventilated, it can prematurely age your shingles by making them unable to “breathe.”


Meanwhile, a metal roof will last you at least twice as long as its asphalt shingle counterpart, especially if you maintain it well with proper recoatings. And a natural slate roof is super durable, with the nails holding its tiles in place often rusting out well before the slate needs to be replaced. In this case, you’d likely replace the nails, not the roofing material, unless any tiles are broken. 


You also have to consider Mother Nature’s curveballs. If any hail storms, hurricanes, or other severe wind or weather events have occurred, they may have worn down your roof prematurely. 


Whether or not you know your roof needs to be replaced, Retex Roofing & Exteriors is here to help. We offer complimentary roof assessments in which we examine your roof and provide you with the knowledge needed to make the best decision to protect your home.


Eliminate the guesswork. Call us at 804-258-6300 or click the button below for a complimentary roof assessment today.

New Button
RETEX’s Katelyn Lewis stocked the teachers’ lounges at A.M. Davis, Robious, and Watkins Elementaries
By Katelyn Lewis September 17, 2025
RETEX’s Katelyn Lewis helped to stock the teachers’ lounges at A.M. Davis, Robious Elementary, and J.G. Watkins Elementary this week.
A RETEX employee installs Hardie Plank fiber cement siding at our new RETEX office location.
By Katelyn Lewis September 16, 2025
Our RETEX office has moved around the corner to Hull Street Rd. We've remodeled it a bit in the last month, including installing the new sign, Hardie siding and soffit, front door, and new windows on the front.
Retex replaced this Fredericksburg asphalt shingle roof in June 2024.
By Katelyn Lewis September 12, 2025
RETEX replaced this Fredericksburg asphalt shingle roof in June 2024.
RETEX replaces the siding on a home in North Chesterfield, VA.
By Katelyn Lewis September 10, 2025
If you spot any of these five signs on your home's siding, it may be time to call a siding contractor for a replacement quote.
Snacks in the teachers' lounge at Bon Air Elementary, supplied by RETEX in September 2025.
By Katelyn Lewis September 9, 2025
RETEX’s Katelyn Lewis started the RETEX Teachers’ Treats initiative to support the local teachers and staff as they work hard to educate our future leaders.
We replaced the flat roof for this Glen Allen home in August 2025.
By Katelyn Lewis September 4, 2025
Flat roofs are a common roofing option throughout Richmond, whether for a whole home or on small additions with low pitches.
RETEX
By Katelyn Lewis September 1, 2025
RETEX will be closed today in observance of the holiday, but we’re open tomorrow.
Image of RETEX's Chris Spahr in front of a RETEX truck.
By Katelyn Lewis August 31, 2025
Chris is one of our fantastic exterior experts, helping folks get clear, fair quotes on their roofs, siding, windows, and gutters.
Retex recoated the metal roof and replaced the gutters on this Stafford, VA home in May 2025.
By Katelyn Lewis August 29, 2025
Recoating metal roofs provides a less-expensive option than replacing them, with the coating sealing any leaks, cracks, and seams that natural wear-and-tear causes.
A photo of the new RETEX roof installed for our 2024 Roof for a Veteran recipient in Richmond, VA.
By Katelyn Lewis August 27, 2025
We’re working with our suppliers to provide a free roof for a local veteran in need. But we need your help in finding someone who could benefit from this program.