How long does a roof last in St. Louis?

Asphalt-shingle roofs in the St. Louis area typically last 15–25 years, shorter than the national average in spots because of frequent hail and big temperature swings. Metal and slate last far longer. Once a shingle roof passes ~20 years and shows wear, replacement is usually more economical than repeated repairs.

Should I repair or replace my roof?

Repair if the damage is isolated and the roof is otherwise sound and under ~15 years old. Replace if it's near or past its lifespan, leaks in multiple places, or shows widespread shingle failure — repeated repairs on an old roof usually cost more than replacing it.

Can I get an insurance-paid roof if mine is just old?

No — insurance covers sudden damage like hail or wind, not normal age and wear. But if a storm damaged an older roof, that damage may be covered. A roofer can inspect and tell you whether a claim is worth filing.

7 Signs You Need a New Roof (Not Just a Repair)

By RoofMatch STL Editorial Team, Local Roofing Research Desk

Published March 5, 2026 Updated June 11, 2026

Quick answer

You likely need a new roof — not just a repair — if your roof is 20+ years old and showing several of these signs at once: widespread curling or balding shingles, granules filling your gutters, daylight or stains in the attic, sagging rooflines, or repeated leaks in different spots. A single isolated leak is usually a repair; multiple aging signs together point to replacement.

Not every problem means a new roof. Here’s how roofers tell replacement from repair.

The 7 signs

Age 20+ years — most St. Louis asphalt roofs are near end-of-life by now.
Curling, cracking, or balding shingles across large areas (not one spot).
Granules in the gutters — sandy grit means shingles are wearing out.
Daylight or water stains in the attic — active or past leaks getting in.
Sagging rooflines — a structural/decking issue, not a surface fix.
Repeated leaks in different places — patching one just moves the problem.
Storm/hail damage — dented, bruised, or missing shingles after a storm.

Repair vs. replace, quickly

Situation	Usually a…
One leak, roof under ~15 yrs, otherwise sound	Repair
Isolated storm damage on a newer roof	Repair (often insurance)
20+ yrs old with several signs above	Replacement
Leaks in multiple spots / sagging	Replacement

If you’re seeing several of these, a free inspection is the next step. RoofMatch STL can match you with vetted local roofers who’ll assess your roof and tell you honestly whether it’s a repair or a replacement.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a roof last in St. Louis?: Asphalt-shingle roofs in the St. Louis area typically last 15–25 years, shorter than the national average in spots because of frequent hail and big temperature swings. Metal and slate last far longer. Once a shingle roof passes ~20 years and shows wear, replacement is usually more economical than repeated repairs.
Should I repair or replace my roof?: Repair if the damage is isolated and the roof is otherwise sound and under ~15 years old. Replace if it's near or past its lifespan, leaks in multiple places, or shows widespread shingle failure — repeated repairs on an old roof usually cost more than replacing it.
Can I get an insurance-paid roof if mine is just old?: No — insurance covers sudden damage like hail or wind, not normal age and wear. But if a storm damaged an older roof, that damage may be covered. A roofer can inspect and tell you whether a claim is worth filing.

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