A new roof for your home or commercial building is a major investment. And before you make such a large purchase, it’s important to have an idea of how long that investment will last. If you know the most likely life expectancy of your roof, it will be much easier to plan for its eventual replacement. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to replace your roof preemptively when it nears the end of its lifespan, which can potentially save you a ton of hassle. So, what is the average lifespan of a roof?
Average Lifespans for Different Roofing Materials
Both residential and commercial roofs can be made from several different types of materials. Because each of these roofing materials has unique properties, the average lifespan can vary quite a bit. Below, you’ll find the typical life expectancies for several of the most common roofing materials.
Architectural Asphalt Shingles: 30 to 50 yearsThree-Tab Asphalt Shingles: 15 to 20 yearsWood Shingles: 25 to 30 yearsComposite Shingles: 40 to 50 yearsMetal Shingles: 20 to 50 yearsClay Tiles: 50+ yearsSlate Tiles: 50+ years
Other Variables to Consider
You may be wondering why the ranges for some of the above materials are so wide; the simple answer is that several other variables come into play. When determining the life expectancy of a roof, there are more factors than just the type of roofing material used.
Quality of Materials – Every type of roofing material has a spectrum of quality. If you work with a roofing company that uses flimsy, low-quality shingles, they almost certainly won’t hold up for as long as sturdy, high-quality ones would. This is one reason why it’s so important to choose reputable roofing professionals for your roof installation project. Environment – Another important factor is the environment where the roof is located. For example, if you live in an area that experiences icy winters or powerful wind storms, your roof is going to accumulate much more wear and tear than it would in an area with calmer weather. In Texas, the main element to worry about is the intense summer heat, which can be damaging to some asphalt shingles. Metal shingles, on the other hand, hold up very well in extreme heat.Quality of Workmanship – The roofing contractors who handle your roof installation will have a major impact on the roof’s life expectancy. If they complete the job with precision, attention to detail, and thoroughness, it will greatly increase the odds of your roof having a long, healthy lifespan.Maintenance – As a home or business owner, you can have a major impact on the lifespan of your roof. By keeping up with regular roof inspections, maintenance, and repairs, you’ll be able to keep the roof healthy and minimize its wear and tear.
What Is the Takeaway?
Ultimately, you have quite a bit of influence over how long the roof of your home or commercial building lasts. By hiring a quality roofing company, selecting long-lasting materials, and taking good care of the roof, you can ensure that it lasts a very long time. If you need reliable roof installation in the Austin, Houston, or San Antonio area, contact us at LOA Roofing & Construction today to schedule a free quote.