How Long Should a Roof Last?

A roof is an integral component of your home, but many people don't think too much about it. It's out of sight and easy to forget about—until something goes wrong. You probably have an idea about the age of your roof, but do you know how long it should last and when to replace it? A reliable roof can last for many years before needing repair, so it's important to clue in on what makes a durable and well-maintained roof so that you can extend its life. Many factors will affect your roof's lifespan, like the weather, the type of roofing material used and how often you perform regular maintenance. So how long should a roof last? Read on to find out!

The majority of roofs are expected to last anywhere from 15-30 years, but several factors can reduce the lifespan of your roof. The first is the quality of materials used to construct your home's roof. Your home's roof was likely constructed using asphalt shingles because this is the most commonly used roofing material. Asphalt shingles usually last for about 18 years. Asphalt shingles are durable, but they require regular maintenance to last for their expected lifespan. If you live somewhere with a high humidity climate and don't seal your roof every year, moisture will get trapped between layers of shingles and cause them to rot faster than they would otherwise. Some homeowners choose other materials like metal or slate tiles instead because they are more durable and less susceptible to the elements than asphalt shingles or cedar shakes to harsh climates such as Canada's winters. Lifespan will differ by material, but on average, your roof should last for about 20 years with regular maintenance.

The quality of roofing materials used in a roofing project is crucial. Like anything else, you get what you pay for. If you choose shoddy materials, replacing the entire thing later on will be more expensive or even repair minor issues as they arise. The quality of materials will affect how long your roof lasts and how long it takes to install it. Materials like slate and clay tiles can last up to 50 years with proper care and maintenance! They can be expensive to install, but their long lifespan can compensate for the cost. Metal roofing is also very long-lasting and durable. They can last for up to 50 years and are relatively low maintenance. Asphalt and wood shingles can last between 20-30 years, but they require more maintenance to extend their lifespans. When having your roofing system replaced, it's essential to select a reputable roofing company that uses quality materials that will last. At United Roofing & Exteriors, we only use the highest quality roofing materials to ensure your roof lasts as long as possible. 

As you can imagine, a roof is exposed to various weather conditions. The average roof is exposed to the sun, rain and snow on an annual basis. Roofs are also exposed to wind and ice in some climates. So how long does it take for all of these elements to wear down your roof? The answer depends on which type of material you have installed and where you live. If you have asphalt or wood shingles and live in an area with high winds, your shingles have more potential to be damaged and likely won't last as long. The good thing about these roofing materials is that they are easy to repair. If you like in an area with frequent hail storms, you may want to stay away from options like slate or clay tiles. While these options are highly durable, they are not invincible and can be broken by large hail. Slate and clay tiles can be costly to replace. When choosing a roofing material, it's essential to select one that will stand up to the weather conditions in your area to extend its lifespan.

A properly maintained roof should last at least 15 years. Some maintenance steps will ensure that your roof lasts as long as possible. Check for signs of wear and tear. Look at the shingles; if they're curling up, they could be exposed to the elements too long and need replacing soon. If you notice any holes in your shingles or flashing (the metal or plastic pieces that hold down water pipes and vents), get them fixed immediately—they'll only become more challenging to repair as time goes on! Look out for leaks around vents and drains when checking your gutters from below—this helps prevent mould from forming on them over time. If you notice any damage to your roof, it's essential to have it repaired right away. Avoiding repairs can lead to more significant issues and cost more to fix. Proper roof maintenance is essential for extending the lifespan of your roof. If you need tips on proper roof maintenance, check out our blog about roof maintenance tips!

As you can see, many factors will affect the lifespan of your roof. The number one way to ensure your roof lasts as long as it should is regular maintenance. At United Roofing & Exteriors, we offer roof maintenance services to ensure your roof lasts as long as possible. By scheduling regular roof maintenance, you are taking a proactive step to reduce costly repairs and replacements. If you want to make sure your roof lasts as long as it should, contact us today! We've got you covered.