tile roof lasting well due to strong material
  • Roofing

How Long (On Average) Does a Roof Last?

Homeowners must invest in the maintenance of their houses. One of the most expensive aspects of home maintenance is your roof. The roof’s longevity will depend on the roofing materials and regular maintenance. You can hire a roofing contractor to inspect for any issues or potential problems.

An experienced roofing contractor can identify any required repairs or recommend that you replace your roof, and they can also recommend the best type for your area. You can choose an asphalt roof, slate roof, wood roof, clay tile roof, or metal roof. Selecting the best long-lasting roofing materials for your home will extend the life expectancy of your roof.

How Long Does a Roof Last?

Many homeowners wonder how long does a roof last? A roof’s lifespan depends on several factors, and the most important factor is regular roof maintenance. Professional roofing contractors will suggest the most durable materials for the weather conditions in your area.

A typical residential roof can last more than 15 years, even up to 50 years, with the right conditions. Most homeowners who choose popular roofing materials such as asphalt shingles will enjoy their roofs for about 15 years, but those that invest in metal will have decades to listen to the pitter-patter of rain.

long lasting asphalt roof in residential neighborhood

Asphalt shingles are the most widely-used roofing materials installed today, and asphalt shingle roofs are the most affordable. The sun’s heat will soften the asphalt, which helps it bond to the surface, creating a water-tight seal preventing roof leaks.

An asphalt shingle roof is prone to damage from moss and fungus in wet, humid areas. When considering an asphalt roof replacement, it is best to invest in premium shingles.

You can choose organic or fiberglass. Each option has several styles, but the three-tab asphalt shingles are the most popular.

You can also choose top-of-the-line architectural shingles, which can last from 25 to 30 years. These shingles are much more expensive than the other options, but they are very durable.

Unfortunately, they do not recommend these shingles are not recommended for flat roofs but rather for sloped roofs.

What Type of Roof Can Last More Than 30 Years?

Wood shingles can last for 30 years, but they require a great deal of maintenance. A wood shingle roof done in cedar is very durable. A homeowner must inspect their home annually to identify any wooden shingles that need to be replaced.

Clay roofs have an impressive roof life expectancy. Clay tile roofing can last more than 50 years, and this option is durable and requires very little maintenance. A clay roof is a popular choice in hot sunny areas.

You must hire a professional roofing company to install your clay roof. They must install the heavy clay tiles in a specific pattern to prevent premature roof failure and to perform any roof repairs.

If you need a new roof and consider clay tiles, you may have to reinforce the existing roof supports, and a clay tile roof requires more support than other roofing choices.

Metal roofing can easily last half a century, and properly installed metal roofs can last more than 70 years. You can choose standing-seam copper panels or stone-coated steel tiles. The durability of metal roofs depends on the thickness of the metal.

Slate roofs are the most durable of any of your options. It is the most expensive choice, but you won’t have to worry about how long does a roof last? A slate tile roof will generally last until well past retirement age.

long lasting slate roof with solar panels installed

Most slate tile manufacturers provide warranties for their slate tiles for 50 years up to a lifetime. A slate roof lasts longer than most homeowners who live in their homes.

You may have heard of solar panels, but there are now solar roofing tiles. They are pricey, and you may find that they do not have the energy efficiency of the panels.

How Often Should Roof Be Replaced?

When should you have your roof replaced? There is no one answer. A roof installed with good roofing material can last 15 years or more than 70. The lifespan will also depend on the maintenance that you do every year. You should identify and repair any damage immediately.

Composite shingles are the least durable, and you should replace them in 12 to 20 years. You might not necessarily have to replace the entire roof but rather replace missing shingles. You might notice damage caused by wind and rain.

Homeowners should consider replacing a cedar shake roof in 20 to 25 years. Regular maintenance is crucial because you can maintain a wood-shingled roof by replacing roof shingles when cracked or broken.

You can start budgeting to replace clay tile roofs or concrete tiles in 20 to 30 years. Tile roofs can last longer if they are well maintained, and you make repairs immediately. Broken tiles can lead to other problems like water leaks.

Metal roofing can last for 50 years. When you see that the metal panels are starting to wear, it is time to replace it. The longevity of metal roofs depends on proper maintenance.

How Long Does a Shingle Roof Last?

How long does a roof last if you invest in a new roof and choose shingles? The answer will depend on what kind of shingles you choose. Architectural shingles, also called dimensional shingles, are popular, durable, and excellent choices for commercial buildings. You may start to notice wear and tear on your asphalt shingles in about 15 years.

You can choose fiber cement shingles, a great alternative to wood shingles and slate roofing. You will need to consider a roof replacement in 20 to 25 years.

How Long Does a Metal Roof Last?

durable metal roof lasting a long time due to materials

The lifespan of metal panels will make your pocketbook happy. Unlike asphalt shingles, you won’t have any roofing worries. Your metal panels will require very little maintenance, but you should inspect your metal roof annually to identify potential problems. A properly installed metal roof can last up to 70 years.

Final Thoughts

Maintaining your roofing system is essential to homeownership, and regular repairs can prevent the need for a replacement. Investing in a metal roof or slate roofing can save you money down the road.

The secret is to choose the proper roofing professional and material. Consider your climate when choosing the roofing material you want on your home. The right type of roofing material will protect your home for years.

Check Out Our Recent Blog Posts

get the knowledge you need to start your home's transformation

Mother and Son Playing

Transforming Twin Cities Homes

The Voyager family can’t wait to help yours!

Get In Touch
Share to...