When you replace your roof, it’s important to choose a material that will give you plenty of years out of it. This is a practical consideration due to the cost involved with replacing a roof. If you’re thinking about installing asphalt shingles, you might be curious to know how long they will last. Read on below to know the average asphalt shingles lifespan so you can determine if it’s a worthwhile investment.
The Average Shingles Lifespan
How long do asphalt shingles last? It is not a simple question to answer since there are several factors that can affect the lifespan of this type of roof. On average, asphalt shingle roofs last up to 20 or even 30 years.
This is such a wide range because many factors can influence the lifespan of asphalt shingles. The obvious factor that can impact the roof’s average lifespan is the climate and weather where you live. If your area is subject to extreme weather conditions all the time, this can significantly lower the roof’s lifespan.
On the other hand, there are other factors such as the roof maintenance, the specific type of asphalt shingle product used, the roof pitch, and the insulation and ventilation of the roof that can also determine its lifespan. Nonetheless, asphalt shingles are still of the most popular roofing materials in the US. This can be attributed to the affordability and durability of this product.
Asphalt Shingles vs Other Roof Materials
Asphalt shingle roofs are not as long-lasting as other types of roofing materials such as metal. To give you an idea and to help you decide what roofing material to opt for, here is a side-by-side comparison of the average lifespan of common roof types.
- Asphalt Shingles – 15 to 30 years
- Metal Roofing – 40 to 70 years
- Clay Tile – 50 to 100 years
- Wood Shakes – 30 years
- Slate Tile – 75 years
How to Make Your Roof Last Longer
Asphalt shingle roofs do not offer the same longevity that many other roofing materials have to offer, based on the comparison above. However, several factors can come into play when it comes to determining how long your roof will last. It is important to understand these factors so that you can take measures to protect your roof from them.
There is also nothing that proper and regular maintenance cannot handle. If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, you need to be more diligent with your roof maintenance. Working with a professional roofing company to do routine maintenance will help you identify issues and conduct repairs before the problem becomes irreversible. This small home improvement can boost the integrity of your home and your roof.
The recommendation for asphalt shingle roofs is to inspect it at least three times a year (this could be more if you live in areas with harsh climate and weather conditions). Make sure to call roofing professionals who can properly assess the condition of your roof and recommend the steps to keep it in good condition for longer.
