Asphalt Roof Longevity: What Home and Business Owners Need to Know
Interested in investing in an apshalt roof? Here at LOA Construction, we understand first hand the importance of maximizing the investment in your home or business's roof.
While, many are told to expect a lifespan of 25 to 30 years for their asphalt roofs, it's important to note that this can vary based on several factors.
Our experience in the roofing industry has taught us the significance of both the material's quality and the installation process in determining the longevity of your roof.
Request an Appointment!5 Factors That Go Into an Asphalt Roof's Lifespan
Understanding the longevity of your asphalt roof starts with recognizing its critical role as a financial and structural investment in your home.
Here are five key elements influence the lifespan of your roof:
1.) Type of Asphalt Shingles Installed
Let's take a look at the different types of shingles that you can choose for your asphalt shingle roof installation:
3-Tab Shingles
Known for their cost-effectiveness and traditional appearance, 3-tab shingles feature a uniform, flat layer design. With a lifespan typically ranging from 20 to 25 years, these shingle types offer a straightforward, economical roofing solution.
Their durability under moderate weather conditions makes them a popular choice for homeowners seeking reliability without the added cost of more premium options.
Dimensional Shingles
Also referred to as architectural shingles, these are constructed with multiple layers of asphalt, enhancing their aesthetic appeal and durability. Dimensional shingles can last up to 30 years, offering a more sophisticated look that mimics natural wood or slate.
They are designed to withstand more severe weather conditions, making them a suitable choice for homes in areas prone to storms.
Premium Shingles
Offering the highest level of quality and durability, premium shingles are designed to provide superior protection and aesthetic appeal. With lifespans extending up to 50 years, these shingles are manufactured to mimic high-end materials like slate and cedar shake but at a fraction of the cost.
Premium shingles are ideal for homeowners seeking long-term roofing solutions with enhanced curb appeal and performance in extreme weather conditions.
For further information about the different types of asphalt shingles, please see this article. You can also have our team help you decide on the best asphalt shingles for your residential or commercial roof.
Read More: What Are The Best Shingles For Your Roof?
2.) Quality of Installation
The longevity of an asphalt roof is significantly influenced by the skill and expertise of the roofing contractor. At LOA Construction, we emphasize:
Expert Installation Practices
With more than 30+ years of experience, LOA Construction's roofing team is fully trained and equipped with the latest roofing techniques to ensure each shingle is properly installed, providing maximum durability and resistance to weather elements.
Attention to Detail
From ensuring proper nail placement to optimizing shingle alignment, our meticulous attention to detail prevents future issues, such as leaks or wind damage.
Quality Assurance
We conduct thorough roof inspections post-installation to guarantee the integrity of our work, ensuring your roof meets both our high standards and those set by industry regulations.
Read More: 4 Tips for What to do When Your Roof Starts Leaking
3.) Local Weather Conditions
The specific climate of your area plays a critical role in determining the lifespan of your asphalt roof:
Sun Exposure
In regions with high UV radiation, shingles can deteriorate more quickly, losing their flexibility and color.
Temperature Fluctuations
Areas experiencing significant temperature swings can cause shingles to expand and contract, leading to cracking and other forms of wear.
Severe Weather
Locations prone to hurricanes, hailstorms, or heavy snowfall require roofing materials designed for high impact resistance and weight bearing.
4.) Attic Ventilation
Proper attic ventilation is critical for extending the life of your roof by:
Preventing Heat Buildup
In summer, adequate ventilation reduces the attic's temperature, preventing the overheating of shingles and subsequent premature aging.
Reducing Moisture Accumulation
During colder months, ventilation helps minimize the buildup of moisture and humidity, which can lead to rot, mold, and ice dam formation, all of which can damage the roof structure over time.
Read More: How to Waterproof Your Roof
5.) Regular Maintenance
Following a professional asphalt roof installation, one of the best ways to keep up the condition of your asphalt roof is to perform regular maintenance. We detail more about roof maintenance for DIYers in our article linked here.
Inspections
Annual or bi-annual inspections can identify potential issues early, such as loose or damaged shingles, allowing for timely repairs.
Debris Removal
Keeping the roof clear of debris, such as leaves and branches, prevents moisture retention and the growth of moss or algae, which can weaken shingles.
Gutter Cleaning
Ensuring gutters and downspouts are free from blockages prevents water overflow, which can lead to roof edge and foundation damage.
Read More: Why Is Roof Maintenance Important in Texas?
When to Consider an Asphalt Roof Replacement
Recognizing the signs that your asphalt roof needs replacement is crucial for maintaining your home's safety and value. Whether it's visible damage after a storm, missing shingles, or signs of aging like cracked or curled shingles, timely action is essential. We recommend professional roofing inspections, especially as your roof approaches the 15-20 year mark, to assess its condition and determine the need for repairs or replacement.
Read More: How to Know When It’s Time to Replace a Roof?
Why Choose LOA Construction?
If you're looking for a trusted roofing company in the Austin, TX area with plenty of asphalt roofing experience, choose LOA! LOA Construction has been a trusted name in roofing services, offering expert asphalt roof installations. Our expertise and meticulous attention to detail ensure that your roof's lifespan closely aligns with the manufacturer's expectations. We're here to share our knowledge on the durability of asphalt roofs and the factors that influence their longevity.
Have questions about what to ask your insurance provider, what type of asphalt roof you need, how to shingle a roof, or more? Trust us to ensure your roof is installed correctly the first time. Contact us today to get an estimate and to learn more about extending the lifespan of your asphalt roof!
Request an Appointment!Further Reading:
- • Minimum Slope For An Asphalt Roof
- • Common Roofing Terms to Know
- • When is Roofing Season in Texas?
- • Why Choose a Professional for Your Residential Roof?
- • What to Know Before Getting Your Roofing Repair in Austin
- • How to Avoid Common Roofing Mistakes
- • How to Find The Best Company to Help With Your Emergency Roof Repair
- • Best Roof Types for Texas
- • 12 Common Roofing Problems and How to Prevent Them
- • How Much Does A New Roof Cost?
- • Roof Leaks In Heavy Rain: Don’t Ignore The Warning Signs of Roofing Damage
- • Leaking Roof? Why You Need To Fix It Immediately & How To Make Sure Your Roof Is Fixed Correctly
- • Need An Emergency Roof Fix? What To Look For When Hiring A Company To Fix Your Roof
- • Is Your Roof Leaking by a Vent Pipe?
- • 5 Things You Should Know About Austin Roofing
- • What Does a Roof Leak Repair Cost?: How To Get The Most Out of Your Money
- • 4 Tips For Choosing A Roof Type
- • Breaking Down the Cost of Commercial Roofing in San Antonio
- • What Does a Commercial Roofing Repair Look Like & How To Tell If Your Roof Needs One
- • What Is the Best Time of Year to Install a Roof?
- • Everything You Need to Know About Commercial Roofing
- • 5 Essential Roof Repair Tips for Austin Property Owners
- • General Guide to Roofing Codes in Austin, TX
- • Roofing in San Antonio: Navigating Roofing Code Compliance