The average lifespan of a roof usually ranges between 25 to 50 years. However, a roof’s life expectancy depends on the quality, durability and type of material chosen. The longevity of a roof is very dependent on the materials used, quality of the materials, the slope, and ventilation. If you are in the market for a new roof, follow along for more on how to determine if your roof needs replacement and is nearing its lifespan.
Roof Life Expectancy Based on Types of Roofs
Asphalt shingles:
Being the most common roofing material in the United States because of their dependability, asphalt shingles will last you up to 30 years. These asphalt shingles also vary in their lifespan depending on what weather they endure over the years. For example, in a location with dramatic temperature changes, asphalt shingles will not last as long, causing them to crack. Some signs your asphalt shingle roof may need replacing or it is nearing its life expectancy would be curling of the shingles, cracking in the shingles, or mineral granules found in the gutters from your roof. Overall, though, asphalt shingles will last anywhere from 15 years to 30 years on your home.
Wood Shingles:
Wooden shingles have a typical life expectancy of 30 years also. For these roofs to last longer, they need a bit more maintenance throughout their lifetime. Paint touch-ups and yearly cleaning will help maintain a wood roof, giving it the capacity to have a lifespan of 40 years.
Clay Tile Roof:
A clay tile roof can last you anywhere from 50 years to one hundred years! These roofs are weather resistant, fire resistant, and rot resistant. All these factors contribute to the long lifespan of a clay tile roof. It is still important to clean clay tile roofs annually to ensure they last the entirety of their lifetime. This style of roof is more expensive upfront but will last the longest compared to the other materials typically used on roofs.
Metal Roof:
A metal roof is also going to last a bit longer than the other materials of roofs that have been mentioned. Metal roofs with thick, quality material will last over 50 years. For the cheaper metal used on roofs that are thinner, these will last from 20 years to 25 years. Metal roofing also has a smaller carbon footprint compared to other materials; this is a bonus to metal roofs!
Slate Roof:
A slate roof is more pricey than other roofs but will last over 50 years. Also, if a slate tile is ever to break, it is easy to replace. Slate tile roofs can withstand anything mother nature throws at it but needs to be professionally installed correctly to do its job.
Roof Life Expectancy Based on Types of Roofs
EPDM:
This is a synthetic rubber material commonly used for commercial roofs. It is affordable, easy to apply and lasts 25 to 30 years or more, depending on how well it is maintained.
PVC:
This type of flat roof involves a vinyl membrane, which provides the most energy efficiency since it is UV resistant and reflects the sun since it is white in color. This is an expensive option, but this investment will last over 20 years.
TPO:
Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) is a single-ply flat roofing option whose seam strength is stronger than EPDM. It is less expensive than PVC but is not as flexible and usually lasts between 15 to 20 years.
Spray Foam:
This is an excellent commercial roofing option, and the life expectancy of spray foam roofs depends on the thickness of the foam and the coating. If this type of roof is well maintained and follows a regular recoating schedule, they should be able to last well over 50 years.
What Can Shorten Your Roof’s Lifespan?
Here are key factors that determine how often your roof may need to be replaced:
- Weather: Spokane, Washington, and Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho face extreme heat and extreme winters. These extreme weather conditions cause roofing materials to loosen or crack, damaging the structural integrity of your roof.
- Exposure to UV Rays: Prolonged exposure to extreme heat creates thermal shocks to the roofing materials, causing expansion and contraction. This causes the material to crack, tear, or curl causing roof replacement to be sooner than expected.
- Cold weather can put a massive strain on your roof. Whether it is from moisture accumulation, snow, or freezing temperatures, the toll winter can take on your roof can have widespread consequences.
- Poor Maintenance: Neglecting your roof and leaving problems unaddressed can intensify problems and accelerate wear and tear. For instance, leaks and mold can take years off your roof’s service life. Ignoring specific maintenance duties can cause the warranty to lapse and material to degrade faster.
- Insulation and Ventilation: Bad ventilation and inadequate insulation can cause warm, moist air to build up and cause rotting on your roof.
How to Extend the Life Span of Your Roof?
A roofing system tends to last longer if it is given proper care and attention. Here are steps you can take to extend the life of your roof:
- Keep the gutters clean to prevent blockage and water damage to the boards.
- Remove leaves and debris from the roof. You can use a garden hose or leaf blower but avoid pressure washing because it can cause damage. You can also trim nearby branches to reduce the number of leaves falling onto your roof and prevent damage from falling tree limbs.
- Ventilate the attic to allow humid air to escape and prevent the growth of mold.
- Have your roof inspected by professionals annually to catch smaller problems. Address them immediately before they escalate into more serious issues.
If you need a roof inspection or suspect that you need a roof replacement, contact Specialty Roofing and Home Products in Spokane, Washington. With years of experience, we know how to get the job done right. Specialty Roofing and Home Products has been a leading roofing contractor since 1979.
When does my roof need replaced?
Despite knowing the average lifespan of various roof types, you must continue to monitor your roof’s health to know how often to replace your roof. Typical warning signs you need a new roof include:
- Damage to roof material
- Leaks and water damage
- Discoloration to ceiling
- Visible damage to roof and exterior
- Pests getting inside