A common question that homeowners have when choosing new roofing is how long their material of choice will last.
Naturally, you want to get the best value for the money when choosing a roof, so it is good to understand what can be expected from different materials.
Though there are various products available for each type of material that a roofer can install on a home, you can get a general idea of life expectancy based on these descriptions.
The roofs in this article are listed from the longest lifespan to the shortest.
1. Tile, Concrete, Ceramic, and Slate
Of all the materials that can be put on a roof, it is the ones made of or with natural materials that can last the longest.
Slate shingles overwhelmingly win this competition, as they can last as much as two centuries when well cared for.
Behind slate shingles, roofing tiles made of ceramic, concrete, and terra cotta are known to last upward of 100 years.
Maintenance is a critical factor with these roofs as broken and slow destabilizing can take place if cracked and broken tiles are not replaced promptly.
2. Metal Roofs
The next long-lived material that roofers can install on your home is metal, which is more popular and readily available than slate and tile.
Metal roofs made as standing seam panels and panels pressed to mimic tiles and shingles of many types have a typical lifespan of 40 to 50 years for average thickness materials.
With exceptional care that includes repainting with protective coatings as needed and thicker gauge metal, they have been known to last as much as 70 years.
3. Wood Roofing
Wood roofing is beautiful and classic, but it does not usually last as long as most other options.
Wood shakes that are thicker, natural cut wedges of wood overlapped on the roof can last near 50 years or so when well cared for.
Wood shingles, which are much thinner than shakes, may last for 20 to 30 years with good care.
Both look very beautiful and rustic; however, in both cases the biggest disadvantage is the amount of maintenance required to keep them waterproofed and protected from damage caused by mold, algae, and moss.
4. Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most popular choice among all roofing materials mainly because they are economical and can be easily installed by roofers.
While newer and better products are introduced frequently, the longest-lasting asphalt shingles are only comparable to wood installations.
Average shingles usually last around 25 years on roofs while premium asphalt shingles may last 40 or more years.
In spite of their shorter life expectancy, more people choose them because they are also the least expensive option.
Roofing Life Depends on Materials and Proper Maintenance
How long your roof lasts depends on many things, starting with the material you choose to install on it.
Though asphalt shingles are the most commonly used roofing material due to their price, they actually have the shortest lifespan.
Other options cost more, but they also last longer.
Discuss the most suitable options for your home with a skilled roofer who will help you weigh price, longevity, and other features so you can decide on the best one for you!
