As you walk around the outside of your house, you spot a few shingles on the ground. Is this a sign that there’s something wrong with your roof? How long does a roof last on average, anyway?
The answer is that it can vary. An asphalt roof isn’t going to stick around quite as long as concrete or clay tiles will. The climate in your area will have a role to play as well.
These are only a couple of factors that you have to keep in mind when you’re trying to calculate the longevity of your roof. Check out this guide to learn when it’s time to get a new one.
Types of Roofing Materials
Materials have a huge role to play when it comes to the lifespan of a roof. Asphalt shingles are cost-effective, but they only stick around for about 20 years before they need replacing.
If you want something that’s going to last a bit longer, you’ll need to go with concrete tiles or slate. Both will continue going strong for over 50 years as long as you take care of them.
The other thing you have to consider is the quality of the roofing materials. The best way to make sure you get the best stuff is to hire a reputable business such as the Falcon Roofing Company.
Underlayment
When you’re weighing your roofing options, always consider the underlayment. It’s a strong layer of waterproofing that will protect your roofing material from the elements in the event that something damages it.
Without a quality underlayment, moisture will build up on your roof and rot the structure away. After a while, it can cause mold to form.
The Climate
for the sake of your roof lifespan, you’ll need to choose a material that can hold up in your climate. For example, if your area sees a lot of heavy rain, you might not want to go with wood. The moisture can rot the material.
Composite shingles are a bad choice for homeowners in hotter corners of the world or areas that get bombarded by hail. Concrete and clay tiles are heavy to install, but they provide the perfect defense against wind and heat.
Roof Maintenance
Even sturdy roofing materials won’t hold up too long without proper maintenance. You’ll need to schedule an inspection at least once a year. Doing so will allow you to get the jump on small issues before they turn into larger ones.
If you’re not sure if you need an inspection, think about the health of your roof for a minute. If you have any loose or missing shingles, it might be time for you to pick up the phone.
How Long Does a Roof Last on Average?
How long does a roof last on average? That depends on the material it’s made of and how well you take care of it. If you don’t schedule regular inspections, or you’re using a material that won’t hold up well in your climate, you may find yourself buying a new roof before you know it.
For more tips that will help you manage your roof, visit the Home Life section of our blog.
