It’s no coincidence the phrase “a roof over your head” means a place to stay sheltered from the elements. Your roof protects your home from the wind and rain. It keeps the snow out and the heat inside in winter. And in summer, it keeps the heat out and cooler air indoors.
But like everything else, roofs have a life span. As they age and weather, proper maintenance can give your roof a little extra longevity. There comes a point, however, when it’s time for a new one. How often do roofs need to be replaced? It depends on a number of things, starting with what material they are made of. Climate, temperatures, and weather conditions also play a part.
Here we’ll discuss the average longevity of a roof and things that could mean your roof needs replacing sooner.
Roofing Materials
There are actually many and varied options when it comes to roofing.Asphalt Shingles
At Interstate Roofing, we work with a lot of asphalt shingles because they are the most cost-effective, easy-to-install option. Currently, more than 75 percent of US homes have asphalt shingle roofs. Asphalt shingles are elegant, have curb appeal, and come in a wide range of color tones and even dimensional shapes.- 3-Tab Shingles: Flat, 3-tab shingles were the most popular type of asphalt shingle for decades, and they are still widely used. Many manufacturers claim 3-tab shingles last 20 to 25 years. Realistically, few homeowners will get the maximum life span out of their shingle roof. Also, it’s best not to wait until the absolute end of a roof’s life before replacing it. But if a shingle roof has been properly installed, and the attic is well-ventilated, 3-tab shingles can certainly last a good 20 years.
- Architectural Shingles: Architectural shingles are another type of asphalt shingle. They are thicker and heavier than 3-tab shingles, with better waterproofing and wind resistance. These shingles are also more durable, with longer manufacturer’s warranties. Most manufacturers market these shingles as “lifetime,” but don’t be fooled. Though the quality of the material and installation may be excellent, most roofing contractors don’t believe they will last a “lifetime.” Other common roofing materials include: