How Long Should a Roof Last? You know when you have a missing shingle or a ceiling leak. It is pretty obvious. But knowing when to replace a roof is not always clear.
So, how long does a roof last? It depends on several factors, and we’ll look at them below.
The Lifespan of Types of Roofs
The lifespan of a roof can go from 15 to 70 years. It depends on several factors such as weather, proper installation, and of course, the roofing material.
Here are the most common roofing material types and their estimated lifespans:
• Asphalt Shingles:
Thanks to their affordability, they are one of the most common roofing material types in America.
But, how long does a shingle roof last?
Typically, asphalt shingle roofs last between 15 and 30 years when correctly installed and without having to resist extreme weather.
• Wood Shingles:
What if those shingles are made out of wood instead of asphalt?
Wood shingles need more maintenance than most of the rest of the roofing materials. However, if you take care of them properly, they can last up to 30 years.
The preferred type of wood for roofing is cedar. It is naturally more resistant to insects and rot than other types of wood.
• Clay Tiles:
Clay tile roofing is very sturdy and can last at least half a century. This type of roof can be very expensive. However, you can wait several decades for your next roof replacement. Besides, they are a relatively low-maintenance material and usually come with a 30+ year warranty.
• Metal Roofs:
One of the main reasons metal roofing is growing in popularity is longevity and durability. These roofs can last up to 70 years! So, by installing a metal roof, the next roofing replacement can be a matter for your children. The installation cost can vary widely depending on the quality of the metal.
4 Factors that Affect a Roof’s Lifespan
1. Material:
The life of your roof relies a lot on the quality of roofing materials. Due to its affordability, good-looking, and efficiency, 80 percent of American homes have asphalt shingles roofs. Yet, you can find in the market many other options that also can last for decades.
Moreover, luxury options can imitate the look of natural materials like slate, wood, and tile with even greater durability.
2. Underlayment:
Roofing underlayment is a layer of water-resistant or waterproof material installed between your roof deck and the other roofing materials. It gives additional protection against rain, snow, and ice.
By investing in installing a high-quality underlayment, you can extend your roof life.
For example, premium waterproof underlayment helps prolong the useful life of roofs in the northeastern United States, where winter is severe.
3. Ventilation:
A well-vented attic can extend the period between roof replacements.
Proper ventilation helps avoid your attic getting hot and moist, which can rot your roofing deck. Likewise, a poorly ventilated roof, during winter, will suffer snowmelt, ice damming, and roof leaks.
Ridge and eave vents boost roof ventilation and are imperceptible. Besides, they are affordable products. A roof may require additional ventilation options such as power vents depending on the slope, size, and architectural style.
A professional roofing contractor can help you determine the best ventilation options for your roof.
4. Installation:
To achieve maximum durability, some roofing products have specific installation requirements.
Besides, the expertise and skill of your roofer will affect how long your roof will last. Therefore, it is critical to hire an installer who knows the roofing products, your region, and installation best practices.
Looking for a Home Improvement Contractor?
How long will your roof last? Maybe it is time for you to replace it.
With our Owens Corning Platinum Preferred roof replacement accreditation, you can trust your next roof replacement to the RRG experts. Only one percent of roofers in the United States have received this is a distinction.
Visit RRG online or call us at 678-325-6949 to solicit an estimate and get a free in-home consultation!
