How Often Should You Replace Major Home Components?
(Hint: Your house isn’t immortal—even if your mortgage feels like it is)
Homes are like people—strong, beautiful, full of quirks—but eventually, parts start to wear out. Just like we replace sneakers, tires, or that one ancient phone charger that finally gave out, major home components have a shelf life too. Knowing when to replace what (and why) can save you from surprise expenses and late-night construction site meltdowns.
Let’s break it down in a fun, builder-approved guide—whether you’re a first-time homeowner or a seasoned contractor who’s seen one too many leaky roofs.
🏠 1. Roof: 20–50 Years
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense—so don’t wait for water to drip onto your Netflix binge.
Asphalt shingles: 20-30 years
Metal roofing: 40-70 years
Clay or slate tiles: 50+ years
While inspecting, keep an eye on the felt (underlayment), flashing, and fascia. A damaged roof can quickly lead to problems with your framing, foundation, or even your fire-resistive barriers.
📌 Pro tip: Regular maintenance and inspections from a general contractor can help you squeeze out every extra year.
🛠 2. HVAC Systems: 10–25 Years
Your forced air heating/cooling system works hard year-round to keep things cozy.
Furnaces: 15-25 years
A/C Units: 10-15 years
Heat pumps: 10-20 years
If your system is older than your college degree and sounds like a backhoe during a thunderstorm, it might be time for an upgrade. Replacing old units improves energy efficiency and could save you $$$—especially if you’re eyeing a green building or passive house goal.
🚿 3. Water Heaters: 8–15 Years
If your showers are turning into surprise ice baths, your water heater may be on its last legs.
Traditional tanks: 8-12 years
Tankless (on-demand): 15-20 years
Make sure your foundation is protected from potential leaks. Nobody wants a flooded flatwork slab.
🪟 4. Windows: 15–30 Years
Drafty windows aren’t just annoying—they're expensive. If your windows are hard to open, foggy, or just plain ugly, it’s time to replace.
New energy-efficient models will boost comfort and lower bills. While you’re at it, check the frieze board (bird block) and gable for rot or insect damage.
Bonus: Modern windows are great for green board-friendly homes and cost-plus contracts where efficiency is king.
🧱 5. Foundation: Ideally Never, But Check Often
A solid foundation should last forever… if the original form, footer (footing), and damp proofing were done right.
But if you’re seeing cracks, sloping floors, or sticky doors, call in a pro. Especially if you're in an area with expansive soils—your construction company should be familiar with soil grade and shifting risks.
⚡️ 6. Electrical System: 25–40 Years
Older wiring systems aren’t just outdated—they’re dangerous.
Look out for:
Flickering lights
Tripping breakers
No GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets in kitchens/baths
Upgrade if your home is still wired like it’s 1975. Ask your builders or custom home builders to provide a bid with itemized cost codes.
🧱 7. Exterior Paint & Siding: 5–15 Years
Faded, peeling paint? It’s not just a style issue—it can lead to moisture intrusion.
Wood siding: repaint every 5–7 years
Fiber cement: up to 15 years
Stucco: inspect every 10 years
Check behind the siding for rot near framing, fascia, and flashing. Keeping your home sealed up tight is vital, especially in high-rain or coastal areas.
💧 8. Plumbing: 40–70 Years (or less, depending on material)
Pipes don’t last forever, especially older galvanized steel ones.
Copper: 50+ years
PEX: 40-50 years
Galvanized steel: 20-50 years (often rusts internally)
Low water pressure, rust-colored water, or persistent leaks? Time for a check-up from your trusted construction worker or general contractor.
🧱 9. Flooring: 10–25+ Years
Carpet: 10-15 years
Hardwood: 20-25+ years with care
Tile: 25+ years
Floating floors: 15-25 years
If you’re seeing wear, warping, or damage, it might be time to upgrade. Choose materials suited for your floor plan and climate. Don’t forget about floating subfloors if you’re building on a slab.
🛑 When in Doubt, Document It
Keep a daily report, especially during renovations. Track replacements, warranties, and change orders. It’ll help with resale and keep your BIM (Building Information Modeling) or CAD (Computer-Aided Design) records up to date.
Final Thoughts
Your home is an investment—and like all great things, it deserves a little TLC. From the foundation to the gable, knowing when to replace major components will save you stress, money, and surprise visits from your local construction company.
So whether you’re a weekend warrior or working with a full L&T Construction crew, stay informed, stay on schedule, and don’t forget to enjoy the process. Your future self (and your house) will thank you.
🔨 Built to last, baby.
Need help figuring out where to start? Call EH Construction today and get a full inspection. Because in building construction, it’s always better to fix it before it breaks.