Why South-Facing Roofs Wear Faster—and Why Autumn Is the Ideal Time for a Roof Replacement

How to Spot South-Facing Roof Wear Before It Becomes a Bigger Problem

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense, and at I-57 Roofing, we’re here to make sure it stays that way. As a trusted name in Illinois and Missouri, we’ve built our company—literally with our own hands—on quality, honesty, and craftsmanship. Owners Marcus and David started I-57 Roofing by working on roofs themselves, combining hands-on installation expertise with world-class customer service. Today, that same passion drives every project we take on.

But did you know one side of your roof may be aging faster than the other?

The South-Facing Roof Deteriorates Faster—Here’s Why

In the Northern Hemisphere, the south-facing portions of your roof receive significantly more direct sunlight throughout the day than other sides. This prolonged UV exposure leads to:

• Faster Granule Loss in asphalt shingles

• Heat-Induced Warping of materials

• Accelerated Drying and Cracking of sealants

• Greater Wear on Underlayment

Over time, this results in premature aging of roofing materials—especially if your home has minimal shade on the southern side.

Telltale Signs of Shingle Deterioration

Whether you're inspecting your roof from the ground or working with a professional, here are signs it's time for a closer look:

• Bald Spots: Missing granules exposing the shingle mat

• Curling or Buckling shingles

• Cracked or Brittle Edges

• Dark Streaks or algae growth

• Moss or Lichen Buildup

• Water Stains or Leaks inside the attic or ceiling

If your south-facing roof shows more wear than other sides, it may be time to consider replacement.

Why Autumn Is the Best Time for Roof Work

Autumn offers ideal roofing conditions:

• Moderate Temperatures: Better working conditions and improved sealant performance

• Dry Weather: Reduced risk of rain delays

• Pre-Winter Protection: Avoid leaks or ice dams before snow hits

• Fewer Scheduling Delays: Many homeowners wait until spring—be ahead of the rush

Plus, cooler weather helps newly installed shingles seal properly without overheating or cracking.

Roofing Options Offered by I-57 Roofing

We proudly offer several roofing materials tailored to your needs, budget, and home style:

Asphalt Shingles

• Affordable and widely used

• Available in many colors

• Easy installation and repair

• Best for: Homeowners seeking cost-effective curb appeal

Standing Seam Metal Roofing

• Longest lifespan (40–70+ years)

• Superior weather resistance

• Modern, sleek appearance

• Best for: Durability, energy efficiency, and snow shedding

G-Rib Metal Panels

• Budget-friendly metal solution

• Great for barns, sheds, and some residential uses

• Fast installation

• Best for: Utility buildings or cost-conscious homes

Metal Shingles

• Combines metal longevity with traditional shingle aesthetics

• Interlocking design improves wind resistance

• Best for: Homeowners who want the durability of metal with a classic look

Residential Flat Roofing

• Ideal for additions, porches, or low-slope homes

• Energy efficient, easy to maintain

• Options include TPO, EPDM, and modified bitumen

• Best for: Flat or low-pitch areas needing dependable waterproofing

Need help deciding what’s best for your home? Our experts can walk you through every option. Contact us today or request your free quote!

The Long-Term Value of a New Roof

A new roof doesn’t just protect—it adds value:

• Boosts Curb Appeal: A fresh roof instantly upgrades the look of your home

• Raises Resale Value: Homes with new roofs sell faster and for more money

• Improves Energy Efficiency: Reflective and insulated materials reduce heat transfer, lowering A/C and heating bills

• Reduces Insurance Premiums: Newer roofs can qualify for discounts with some insurers

According to the National Association of Realtors, homeowners can recover around 60%–70% of the cost of a new roof at resale.

Energy Savings Amid Rising Utility Rates

With electricity and gas prices rising year over year, investing in energy-efficient roofing is more important than ever. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), residential electricity prices have increased over 4% annually on average since 2022, and proposed gas hikes will continue into winter 2025.

Choosing a reflective or insulated roofing system can help reduce your energy usage and soften the blow of increasing utility bills.

Built By Hand, Backed By Trust

At I-57 Roofing, we don’t just hire crews and hand off the work. From the very beginning, Marcus and David set the tone by physically working alongside their team—installing roofs, shaking homeowners' hands, and making sure every detail is perfect.

That same care continues today across our locations in Illinois and Missouri. Whether you’re replacing a roof or choosing a new material, you’re working with people who treat your home like it’s their own.

Proudly Serving Illinois and Missouri Communities

Whether you're in the heart of Decatur, planning ahead in Champaign, or watching the weather in Mt. Zion, Mahomet, or Danville—I-57 Roofing is your trusted roofing expert across central and southern Illinois. We’re proud to serve homeowners in Tuscola, Tolono, Philo, Mattoon, Charleston, Effingham, Highland, Urbana, Springfield, and Savoy with the same craftsmanship and care that built our name.

We’re also actively helping clients in Missouri communities like Ballwin, Town and Country, Fenton, Kirkwood, Chesterfield, Eureka, and Creve Coeur. Whether it’s residential flat roofing or premium standing seam metal, our crews are ready to deliver expert installation and exceptional service.

📞 Ready for Your Roof Inspection?

Whether you're noticing shingle wear, preparing for winter, or just want a professional opinion, I-57 Roofing is here to help.

👉 Call us at (217) 570-3170 

👉 Or click here to schedule your free inspection

Let’s protect your home, enhance its beauty, and give you the peace of mind you deserve.