A roof doesn’t need to be falling apart to be failing. In Iowa, where hail, wind, and freeze-thaw cycles take their toll, a 15-year-old roof can look fine on the surface but be one storm away from major damage.
At J. Bos Inc. Roofing Services, we’ve seen it all—from roofs that last 20 years without issue to ones that fail right after their first decade. But 15 years? That’s the line where most roofs stop bouncing back and start breaking down.
What Happens Around the 15-Year Mark?
Most asphalt roofs in Iowa are rated for 20–25 years. That’s in controlled lab environments—not the real world with hail in April and blizzards in March. By year 15:
- Shingle warranties may be expiring.
- Sealants start losing elasticity.
- Granule loss accelerates.
- UV exposure and heat cycles have done their damage.
- Storm Damage and wear and tear
Even if it’s not leaking yet, your roof is no longer at full strength. That puts your home—and your insurance—at risk.
It’s Not Just About Wear—It’s About Risk
Think of 15 years as the point where small issues can turn into major expenses:
- Hail Damage becomes more severe because older shingles can’t absorb impacts like they used to.
- Water Intrusion risks increase—especially under flashing, around vents, and beneath curled edges.
- Insurance Claims get trickier. Some insurers reduce coverage on older roofs or won’t pay full replacement value.
How to Know It’s Time to Talk
Here’s what we recommend if your roof is 15 years old or older:
- Schedule a professional inspection. We check for wear you can’t see from the ground.
- Review your insurance policy. Don’t wait until after the storm to find out what’s not covered.
- Consider updating. If you’re already planning to sell or refinance, an aging roof can drag down the process.
The J. Bos Advantage
J. Bos Inc. Roofing Services works with manufacturers like CertainTeed and installs shingles backed by strong warranties. As a Certified Master Shingle Applicator, we ensure your replacement roof isn’t just new—it’s protected.
Plus, if your shingles are still under warranty, we may be able to replace them at no additional repair cost.
Final Thought
Don’t wait for the leak. At 15 years, it’s time to have the conversation. Whether you’re seeing signs of wear or just want peace of mind before the next storm season, J. Bos Inc. Roofing Services is here to give you honest answers and options that make sense.
→ Schedule your free roof inspection today
Or read our customer reviews to see how we’ve helped Iowa homeowners make smart roofing decisions.
