What is the Average Lifespan of a Roof?

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Roofing Tips

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What is the Average Lifespan of a Roof

A home is a major investment, and protecting that asset is extremely important. If you want to prevent the thing that protects the rest of your home from the ravages of weather. Whether you’re buying a new home or your existing roof is nearing the end of its life, understanding the types of roofing and their anticipated lifespans will help you plan for the future.

Your roof must be made to withstand a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions, including hail, extreme wind, and intense summer heat. There are several factors that impact how well your roof will manage these situations. Homeowners must consider the type and quality of materials, workmanship on the installation, and weather patterns in your area.

Roofing Materials Matter

Roofing materials span a huge range of materials depending on your location. In the southern United
States, you can expect to see asphalt shingles or metal roofing on most homes. Historic or high end
homes may feature slate or cedar shingles. But what are the differences between these materials, and
how long are they expected to last?

Asphalt shingles

3-tab are the most common, standard shingles. Shortest lifespan, the manufacturer expects 15-25 years from these shingles under normal circumstances. By far the most economical option, and clearly provides excellent protection for your home.
Architectural shingles are more costly, but are noticeably thicker and thus offer more protection. Thus, manufacturers specify that you can expect these shingles to last for 30 years. Architectural shingles create a more layered, textured look for your roof and their increased thickness will protect your roof from wear and tear longer than 3-tab shingles.
Luxury shingles are the thickest and most durable of asphalt shingles, and they are expected to last for 30-50 years depending on the specific variety. Luxury shingles mimic the look of natural cedar or slate shingles and offer an incredible finishing touch on a high-end or historic home.

Metal Roofs

Metal roofing is growing in popularity and with good reason! The lifespan of a properly installed metal
roof is 40-70 years, double what you can expect from 3-tab or architectural asphalt shingles. With a wide
range of profiles, colors, and gauges available, a metal roof can be the perfect complement to any home.
In addition to being extremely stable and durable, metal roofing is also one of the most easily recyclable
roofing materials on the market.

The vast majority of both aluminum and steel roofing is made from recycled material, so if you want to choose a reusable product for your roof then a metal roof may be
the ideal choice for you.

Cedar, Clay, and Slate

These materials are naturally occurring, which means they wear differently than manufactured roofing. Of course, these roofing materials are completely recyclable and will continue life in various forms after they are no longer suitable for your roof. However, these options are also significantly more costly and may require additional work to prepare your home.

Cedar shingles are a traditional material that ages from a golden brown to a silvery grey in the first year or so. The roof is primarily made of wooden shakes or shingles used to cover the roof, and this type of roof can be expected to last up to 50 years with proper care.

A slate roof is unmatched in longevity – you can expect 75-100 years from a slate tile roof depending on
the quality of the stone. However, slate roofing is extremely expensive and very heavy, and a roof must
be specially designed to carry the weight of the stone.

Clay or concrete tile roofs are most popular in very hot, dry climates. They are very durable and can be expected to last 50-100 years, but like slate tiles, you must have a specially reinforced home to withstand
the significant weight of clay or concrete roof tiles.

Stated Lifespan vs. Actual Lifespan

Many homeowners notice signs of deterioration in their roof well before the manufacturer’s stated life
expectancy. If you’re a first-time homeowner, this may come as a surprise. However, it is important to note that a roof typically lasts for 80-85% of the stated lifespan.

Maximize your roof’s life by scheduling regular inspections, keeping your gutters clean, and promptly repair damage as it occurs. Homeowners should schedule an annual inspection with a top-rated professional roofing company and book an additional inspection after particularly severe weather.

Contact Us

Whether you’ve noticed water stains on your ceiling or are concerned that your roof has been damaged by a storm, United Contracting & Roofing can help. Your roofing concerns are important to us. As a family business, we commit to caring for your home and property like it was our own. Our team of salaried, professional roofers will treat you and your home with respect by sticking to our commitments and always leaving your property in prime condition at the end of each day.

Why choose anyone else? United Contracting & Roofing has over 170 5-star reviews and a strong record of superior customer service and exemplary roofing professionals. Contact us today for your free inspection, and experience the United team for yourself!

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