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If you are in the process of buying a new house or if you are thinking about renovating your current house, then one of the most important questions you need to ask yourself in what condition is the roof.
You need to know this one factor when buying a new home because changing the roof or repairing it can mean a whole lot of new costs to add to the cost of the house. But just how long does a roof last?
Image source: Yiangou Architects
There are many things you need to consider if you want to know how long does a roof last. The roof is arguably one of the most important things about your home, and you should check in on how your roof is from time to time. It would also help to get professional services from places like APEX Roofing, in case you need proper advice.
Image source: Markay Johnson Construction
A lot of people just neglect roofs and never really think about them. But it is, in fact, one of the most important parts of your home and one you should check from time to time. In this article, we will take a look at how long does a roof last and what are the factors that decide the life span of a roof and what to do if your roof is in bad condition.
Factors That Can Influence The Lifespan of the Roof
Roofing Material
Image source: American Shingles Pty Limited
The roofing material is certainly the most important aspect of protecting the lower layers of the roof and your whole house from the uncertainties of the weather. The better and more quality the material of the roof is, the better the roof will hold up and the better it will protect you from the weather.
The best and the most luxury materials are slate, tile, and cedar, which are built in such a way that they can really last for a long time and even outlive several owners of the house. So roofing material is a major aspect of how long a roof lasts.
Weather
The weather is certainly an important aspect of determining how long a roof can last, but it is certainly not something you can control. You can only do as much as choosing the right roofing types and materials to counter the weather conditions in your area.
However, this is certainly an unpredictable aspect. You cannot predict whether there will be a massive hail storm or a tornado, but you can build your roof to withstand heavy rain and strong winds.
Some good materials to withstand harsh weather conditions are metal, slate, and tile. One of the most important ways of roofing is shingles, which can, too, be pulled away by strong winds and cause you problems.
Quality of Roofing Underlayment
In addition to the quality of your roofing material, you should pay close attention to the quality of the roofing underlayment that you choose to install. This will protect you against floods and should be water-resistant to provide another layer of safety.
Exposure to Sun
Too much exposure to the sun can really hurt your roof badly and deteriorate its condition massively. To be precise, the radiation of the sunlight will cause your roof to deteriorate and in turn, become less effective. This will require you to change or repair your roof more often.
Pitch of the Roof
Another factor that can influence the lifespan of a roof is the pitch of the roof. In some areas, you can see roofs with a really steep pitch, which prevents rain or snow from accumulating on the roof. Some roofs are only built for a certain amount of water that can build up on it, and you must take this into consideration when you are setting up your roof.
How Long Does a Roof Last?
As we have already mentioned, the material that your roof is made from is a really important factor that can determine how long your roof can last. Of course, workmanship and the weather elements are also important, but the biggest factor is arguably the roofing material.
Some materials last longer than others, but there are also benefits to certain roofing materials such as price and sustainability. With this in mind, let us take a look at how long does a roof last in correlation to some roofing materials. How long does a roof last regarding roofing materials?
Asphalt Shingles
Image source: Lindus Construction/Midwest LeafGuard
Asphalt shingles are certainly one of the most basic and popular roofing materials that you will find all over the world. The fact is that 3-tab asphalt shingles are certainly a good option for sloped roofs, but they will not last really long. Depending on weather conditions, how well the roof is set up and other things, asphalt shingles can last you from 10 to 20 years at most.
Image source: Brown Design Group
The thing about asphalt shingles is that they will do well in various weather conditions, but will not do well in areas with plenty of storms. They are also not too good in very strong winds; they will do well in winds of up to 70 MPH; anything more will damage the roof.
A good alternative to them is architectural shingles. These are also 3-tab shingles, but they are slightly more durable and adaptable to weather conditions. They are thicker and denser, and they can last you from 15 to 25 years.
Wood Shingles
Image source: Taylor-Made Roofing
Another good option as a roofing material is the wood shingles. They are popular because they can last you for quite a long time – about 30 years. It depends on the factors, of course, but that is the estimate.
Image source: Fania Roofing
The best material for wood shingles is cedar, because it is resistant to rotting and insects. A great thing about wood shingles is the fact that they look great, and they give your house the feeling of warmth and home. However, there are some offsets for wood shingles, such as the necessity to upkeep it every year.
There are pros and cons of wood shingles, and it is up to each individual to decide, of course.
Metal Roofing
Image source: Synthesis Design Inc.
Image source: B.O.B. – Beyond Ordinary Boundaries Architecture
Metal roofing is knowing for its durability. It can last you from 30 to 50 years, which is quite a lot. It is knowing to be watertight and durable, and also very resistant to harsh conditions and to fire and rot. It is a great choice, but the offset is the fact that it looks cold and doesn’t give you the feeling of warmth.
Clay and Concrete Tile Roofs
Image source: The Vertex Company
Clay or concrete tile roofs are a popular choice all over the world. While they do require an experienced worker to get the roof set up and built, it can be very rewarding in the long run. Not only do they look great – they are available in a large array of colors that you can choose from freely, but they will also last you quite a long time.
Image source: Fantasyva
The lifespan of such a roof is 50 to 100 years and 40 to 75 years for concrete roofs. Both of these types of roof tiles will not require too much from you – you won’t need to put much maintenance work into them and can last you a long time while also being resistant to harsh weather conditions.
Slate Roofing
Image source: Modernize
Slate is arguably one of the most high-quality and desired materials for roofs. While they can be expensive, you will have many benefits should you decide to get slate roofing.
Image source: All Roofing Solutions
Natural slate is probably the best option for this. It has to be installed properly to reap the full benefits of slate roofing. It can last you from 50 to 100 years, depending on weather conditions.
Fiberglass Roof Shingles
Image source: Modernize
Another good option as a roofing material is the fiberglass shingles. It will bring you that polished and quality look that many people want to have.
Image source: PABCO Roofing Products
They are also not very expensive. While they can last you for about 20 years, reinforced fiberglass shingles can last you for 50 years or even longer.
Signs That You Need a New Roof
What are the signs that you may need a new roof?
- Shingles are curling
- Missing tiles or bad shingles
- Roof valleys
- Leaks
- Missing granules
- Daylight through roof boards.
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