A common question posed to roofing contractors is about the longevity of a new roof and how long until it will once again need replacing.
Roofers can offer no single answer to this question, as every type of roof has a different lifespan and projected longevity.
Based on the different types of roofing most commonly used, these are some estimates on how long homeowners can expect a roof to last before needing a roofing replacement.
- Asphalt Shingles - Asphalt shingles come from roof services in many types and grades, from plain flat 3-tab shingles to premium luxury architectural and dimensional shingles or composite shingles, each with different qualities, features, and durability ratings. Based on this fact, the lifespan for this type of roofing can range from as few as 15 years to as many as 50 years depending on the product.
- Wood Shingles - Properly installed by skilled roofing contractors, wood shingles should last 20 to 30 years when properly maintained to stave off moisture damage, warping, and splitting.
- Wood Shakes - Thicker than wood shingles, natural wood shakes usually last longer, with a range of 30 to 40 years when receiving proper maintenance.
- Metal Roofing - Metal roofs installed by professional roof services can last between 40 and 70 years depending on the thickness of the metal installed. The thicker the gauge installed, the longer the projected lifespan of the roof.
- Clay or Cement Tiles - Beautiful and durable, tiles made from natural clay or cement can last an impressive 50 to 100 years when properly cared for, despite their delicate appearance.
- Slate Shingles - The most durable and long-lasting roof of them all is natural slate shingles. With an impressive lifespan that extends between 75 and 125 years, beautiful timeless slate is expensive but well worth the money.
While these averages are suggested by roofing materials manufacturers, for any roof installed by roofers to reach its full life expectancy, it must be well-maintained.
Required roofing maintenance differs depending on the materials, the climate, manufacturer requirements, and other individual factors.
Regardless of the type of roof a homeowner chooses, the best way for them to get a full life from any roof is to have it professionally installed by a qualified roofing contractor and then have that contractor come back to handle any necessary maintenance.
To remain in great condition, have roofers perform an inspection every other year or after bad storms, then follow the manufacturer’s maintenance requirements for the materials.