How Long Does A Roof Last In South Jersey?
- Vita Entrekin
- Feb 11
- 2 min read
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If you live in Cherry Hill, Sewell, Washington Township, or anywhere in Camden or Gloucester County, this is one of the most searched home exterior questions:
How long does a roof last?
Here’s the honest answer from a local roofing contractor.
Most roofs in South Jersey last 18–25 years. Some fail sooner. Some last longer. It depends on installation, ventilation, weather, and maintenance.
If your roof is over 18 years old, it’s time to start paying attention.
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HOW LONG DO ASPHALT SHINGLE ROOFS LAST IN NJ?
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in South Jersey.
3-tab shingles typically last 15–20 years.
Architectural shingles usually last 20–30 years.
Builder-grade installations often fall closer to 15–18 years.
New Jersey weather is tough on roofs. We get Nor’easters, heavy snow, ice, summer heat over 90°, wind-driven rain, and constant freeze/thaw cycles. All of that shortens lifespan.
If you’re unsure about your roof’s condition, schedule a professional roof inspection:
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WHAT SHORTENS A ROOF’S LIFESPAN?
POOR INSTALLATION
A poorly installed roof can fail in 10–15 years. Flashing mistakes, bad nailing patterns, or cutting corners during installation show up early.
If you’re seeing premature wear, you may need roof repairs:
BAD VENTILATION
Improper attic ventilation causes shingles to overheat from underneath. It traps moisture, loosens nails, warps decking, and can even lead to mold growth.
Ventilation issues are extremely common in older homes throughout Camden County and Gloucester County.
STORM DAMAGE
High winds and heavy storms loosen shingles and flashing — even if you can’t see it from the ground. Small storm damage turns into interior leaks fast if ignored.
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SIGNS YOUR ROOF MAY BE FAILING
If your roof is 18 years old or older and you notice:
Curling or cracking shingles
Granules collecting in gutters
Water stains on ceilings
Sagging areas
Dark streaking
Moss growth
It’s time for a professional evaluation.
You may only need a repair:
Or it may be time to plan for replacement:
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SHOULD YOU REPAIR OR REPLACE YOUR ROOF?
Here’s how we advise homeowners in South Jersey.
If the roof is under 15 years old and damage is isolated, a repair usually makes sense.
If the roof is 18–25 years old with widespread wear, replacement often makes more financial sense long term.
Constant patch jobs add up quickly. Planning ahead is always cheaper than emergency leaks.
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HOW TO GET THE MOST LIFE OUT OF YOUR ROOF
Schedule inspections every 1–2 years.
Fix small problems early.
Keep gutters clear and draining properly.
Address storm damage immediately.
If you need gutter service to protect your roofing system:
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ROOF INSPECTIONS IN CHERRY HILL, SEWELL & SURROUNDING AREAS
At JV Roofing & Exteriors, we provide straightforward roof inspections with no sales pressure.
We serve homeowners throughout Cherry Hill, Haddonfield, Moorestown, Mt. Laurel, Washington Township, Camden County, Gloucester County, and surrounding South Jersey communities.
We’ll tell you clearly if your roof is fine, if it needs a repair, or if replacement is realistically approaching.
No scare tactics. No upselling. Just honest answers.
Schedule your roof inspection today:
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