Whether you are looking to purchase a new house or you want to continue living in your old one, you should know the condition of your roof. However, it’s pretty tricky for some homeowners to gauge the exact age of their roof. So how long do roofs last?
The average lifespan of a roof is affected by numerous factors. The lifespan depends on the roofing materials, weather elements, the design of your roof, and the roofing ventilation you have. Read on below to understand the different types of roofs and how long they last.
Asphalt Shingles
In the US, asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material. That’s because they are durable and affordable, and their warranties run up to 25 years, depending on the manufacturer. They are made of asphalt sealant and fiberglass.
Asphalt shingles will protect your roof structure from weather elements effectively. These elements include strong winds, harsh UV sun rays, and snow.
Most asphalt shingles roofs have a lifespan of 15-30 years. However, the lifespan varies based on the weather and climatic conditions of your location.
For instance, an asphalt shingled roof may not last as long in an area such as Arizona due to the dramatic temperature changes. The shingles will sustain cracks which can lead to leaking. If you notice that your roof shows signs of damage and it’s over 20 years old, it may be time for a replacement.
The type of shingles you install will also determine your roof’s lifespan. Below are the three types of asphalt shingles:
3-Tab Shingles
These often last between 15 to 20 years, depending on how you maintain them and the climatic conditions of your area. 3-tab shingles are the cheapest option in the market, and they are the least durable.
Architectural Shingles
These are also known as dimensional shingles. They have a longer lifespan and are more expensive than 3-tab shingles. The lifespan of architectural shingles roof is 20-30 years.
Premium Shingles
Premium shingles are more expensive than all other types of shingles. They can last between 25 to 40 years. They are also the most durable of the three.
Metal Roofing
The average lifespan of a roof depends on the material used and the design of the roof. Metal roofs are no different. Numerous types of metals can be used for roofing.
A metal roof’s lifespan is estimated to be between 40 to 70 years, depending on the type of metal used. Metal roofs have warranties that last from 20 years to a lifetime. Roofs made from premium metals such as zinc and copper may last up to 100 years, depending on maintenance.
Below are the different types of metal roofing and their different lifespans.
Stand Seam Metal Roof
This is the most commonly used metal roofing for residential buildings. It can withstand strong winds of over 100 miles per hour. The lifespan of a stand seam metal roofing is 50 years.
Ribbed Metal Panels
Ribbed metal panels are easier and cheaper to install than stand seam roofs. However, they can last between 25-50 years, making them less durable.
Stone-Coated Steel Tiles
These types of roofs are common in areas such as Florida that are prone to hurricanes. They can last between 30-50 years, depending on the weather conditions. Stone-coated steel tiles can withstand wind speeds of up to 155 miles per hour, making them quite strong.
Wood Shingles and Shakes
Wooden shingles often last for 30 years with warranties that run up to the same time frame. However, you will need to perform regular maintenance for your roof to last longer. Maintenance includes annual cleaning, periodic staining, and repainting.
The type of wood you choose is also a determining factor in how long your roof will last. Cedar shake roofs are more durable than other wooden shingles because cedar is insect and rot-resistant. Cedar is a popular roofing material for people living in coastal areas because it can withstand strong wind speeds of 245 miles per hour.
If you notice that your wooden shingles are splitting, rotting, have molds, have pest damage, or have algae growth, it may be time for a replacement. Contact reputable roofing contractors to help you examine your roof.
Clay Tile Roof
Clay tiled roofs are very durable, with a lifespan of 50-100 years. Most manufacturers offer warranties that run from 30 years to a lifetime. The durability of clay tiles is long because they are rot, fire, and weather resistant.
Remember to properly clean your roof regularly to ensure that the clay tiles last longer. Without proper cleaning, algae, mold, and moss can accumulate on your clay-tiled roof. An accumulation of moss is quite dangerous, as moss roots may penetrate your clay tiles and cause roof leaks.
Unfortunately, clay tiles don’t last very long in cold climatic conditions due to the constant freezing and thawing, which can easily cause damage to the tiles. However, during the roof installation, you could ask your roofers to have your tiles sealed to prevent the effects of cold weather on your roof.
If you notice cracked tiles, pieces of the tile in your gutters, water staining, and roof leaks, consider calling in a roofing expert to check it out and advise if you need a replacement.
Slate Tile Roofs
Slate tile roofs have the longest durability of all roofing materials. Their lifespan ranges between 75-200 years, depending on maintenance. Most slate tile manufacturers offer warranties that run between 50 years to a lifetime.
Slates can withstand extreme weather conditions such as uneven temperatures and high winds. Slates also require little maintenance, as they can’t retain moisture.
Before installing a slate tile roof, remember that it is quite heavy. One hundred square feet of slate tiles weigh over 1,000 pounds. Check your roofing system and the structure of your house to ensure it can withstand the weight.
Now You Know the Average Lifespan of a Roof
The key to a long-lasting and durable roof is scheduling regular professional maintenance and inspection. Inspections allow the roofing contractors to identify any issues early in advance and conduct any necessary repairs before it’s too late. You could increase the lifespan of a roof if you take good care of it.
The average lifespan of a roof is between 10 years to a lifetime, depending on the materials used, maintenance, and the weather conditions of your area.
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