Your roof is the first impression of your home. It can give your property a good reputation, offering the comfort occupants deserve. But roofs aren’t meant to last. Knowing how long they survive can help you budget for a replacement.
The Life Expectancy of Your Roofs
The average lifespan of your roof is between 15-30 years. But this depends on many factors. Lack of regular maintenance, improper installation and extreme temperature changes can shorten the lifespan of your roofs. Exposure to damaging winds and hail can also affect your roof’s life expectancy. Perhaps the most factor in determining how long a roof lasts is the type of roofing material.
5 Roof Types and How Long They Last
Asphalt Roofs
Asphalts are the most common roofing types used in new homes today. They are ideal if you want a cost-effective option that offers enough protection for your home.
While they are affordable, most asphalt shingles can last between 15-30 years. However, this depends on the climate where you live. For instance, asphalts won’t last long in areas with dramatic temperature changes as they will cause them to crack. The type of asphalt roof will also help determine how long your roof will last.
3-tab roofs last between 15-20 years. They are the most affordable asphalt roof choice. Architectural roofs have an extended lifespan ranging between 20-30 years. But these roofs come with a higher price tag. Premium roofs last between 25-40 years. They are the most-priced asphalt roofs.
Curling is the common sign showing that your asphalt is nearing the end of its time. Other symptoms include cracked roofs and mineral granules in your gutters.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing has a lifespan between 40-70 years. They mostly come with a warranty of 20 years to a lifetime. But this depends on the design and the type of metal. Some metal roofs constructed using superior using zinc and copper can stay up to 100 years.
Some warning signs your metal roof needs a replacement include discoloration, widespread rust and roof leak damage.
Wood Shakes and Shingles
Wood shakes last 25-30 years, with warranties running up to 25 years. However, this is possible with proper maintenance and care. These include annual upkeeps and repainting after every 5 years.
The type of wood you choose can also determine the lifespan of your roof. For instance, cedar shakes can last more than wooden ones since cedar is resistant to insects and rot.
Splitting shingles, pest damage and mold growth are tell-tale signs you need to replace your wooden roofs.
Clay Tile Roofs
Clay tiles roofs are another affordable option lasting between 50-100 years. The extended expectancy is because these tiles are rot, weather, and fire-resistant.
To prolong the lifespan of these roofs, ensure to give them proper regular maintenance. Clay roofs also won’t withstand the test of time in colder regions.
Common replacement signs include chipped tiles, roof leaks, cracked tiles and water staining in the attic.
Slate Tile Roofs
Slate roofs have the most extended lifespan running from 100-200 years. The roofing material can tolerate extreme weather conditions, such as high winds and severe temperature changes. The roofs also require minimal maintenance because they retain no moisture.
Signs you need new slate roofs include missing roofs, damaged attics and cracked roofs.
Time to replace your roofs? Get in touch with a professional roofing contractor and ask for a quote on the price of the replacement.
