One question we often get from homeowners in De Pere is, how often do roofs need to be replaced? Roofs are like shields, protecting houses from rain, wind, and everything else nature throws their way.
But just like anything else, roofs don’t last forever. Lots of things can affect how long a roof stays strong, like the materials it’s made of and the weather patterns where you live. In this blog post, we’ll look closely into what influences a roof’s lifespan. By understanding these factors, you can figure out when it’s time to get a new roof to keep your home safe and comfortable.
So, let’s get started.
Estimated Roof Lifespan Based on Material
All roofing materials have varying lifespans, which can increase or decrease depending on their maintenance needs and how well they can withstand severe weather. Here are some of the most common roofing materials and their average life expectancies:
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt roof shingles are the most popular roofing materials in Wisconsin. They are made from a combination of asphalt and fiberglass or organic materials. In general, your asphalt shingle roof can last for anywhere between 15 to 30 years. This will depend on factors such as quality of roof, the brand of shingles you install, the climate, and maintenance schedule. Despite the variations of shingles available, they typically provide a cost-effective and durable roofing solution.
Asphalt shingles come in three main types, including 3-tab, architectural, and luxury shingles. Next, we will discuss each type and their lifespan.
3-Tab Asphalt Shingles
Lifespan: 15 to 20 years
3-Tab shingles get their name from the three separate tabs that make up each shingle strip. They were once the go-to option for residential roofs, but the introduction of architectural asphalt shingles changed the game as technology improved.
While relatively inexpensive, 3-tab shingles have a shorter lifespan compared to other options. In general, you can expect them to last between 15 and 20 years before needing replacement.
3-Tab shingles are not always recommended in areas with severe storms, high winds, or intense sun exposure as they will not be able to withstand harsh conditions and can falter early.
Architectural Asphalt Shingles
Lifespan: 20 to 30 years
Architectural asphalt shingles, also known as dimensional or laminated shingles, are a higher quality and more durable option compared to 3-tab shingles. Since they use two layers of asphalt, they have a better lifespan of 20 to 30 years, with some even lasting up to 40 years under ideal conditions.
This particular type of asphalt shingle stands out for being the most frequently installed roofing material on residential homes. These shingles are thicker and have a more textured, multi-layered appearance that provides greater depth and dimension to the roof. Quality of the shingles, meaning who manufactures them, and the installation also matters a lot when determining their estimated lifespan.
To learn more, read our blog post: Different Types Of Asphalt Shingles For Your Roof
Luxury Asphalt Shingles
Lifespan: 40 to 50 years
Luxury asphalt shingles are top-of-the-line roofing materials designed to resemble high-end options like wood or slate, but they’re made from asphalt. Luxury shingles boast an impressive lifespan 35 years or more.
These shingles last the longest, even longer than architectural shingles. They also feature a multi-layered construction with a thick base mat and specialized coatings that enhance their resistance to weather, UV rays, and other environmental factors. Luxury shingles can even come with warranties of around 50 years!
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are roofing systems made primarily of materials like aluminum, steel, copper, or zinc. They are designed to provide durable and long-lasting protection for buildings against various weather conditions. These roofs are known for their longevity and can typically last around 40 to 70 years. They are highly resistant to elements such as fire, wind, and hail. Metal roofs are becoming more and more popular because of their durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal.
Metal roofs come in different styles, which include standing seam and corrugated panels, offering versatility in both appearance and function.
Standing Seam Metal Roof
Lifespan: 40 to 70 years
Standing seam metal roofs feature interlocking vertical panels secured with concealed fasteners that offer exceptional longevity. If they are properly installed, standing seam metal roofs have a lifespan of 40 to 70 years or more, significantly outlasting many other roofing options. They are constructed from materials like steel, aluminum, or copper and can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Corrugated Metal Roof
Lifespan: 30 to 50 years
Corrugated metal roofs feature a series of parallel ridges and offer a cost-effective and durable roofing solution. They are typically constructed from galvanized steel or aluminum, materials known for their strength and resistance to corrosion. With proper installation and maintenance, corrugated metal roofs can last between 30 to 50 years, providing long-lasting protection for residential or industrial buildings.
Slate Roof
Lifespan: 80 to 200 years
Slate roofs consist of natural stone tiles meticulously layered to provide a timeless and elegant appearance. They are renowned for their exceptional durability and longevity. When installed by skilled professionals and properly maintained, slate roofs can last an impressive 80 to 200 years or more, making them one of the longest-lasting roofing materials available. These tiles are incredibly dense, fire-resistant, and capable of withstanding severe weather conditions, including high winds and hail. However, these roofs are a premium choice and require a much higher initial investment than other options.
Tile Roofs
Tile roofs are a popular and long-lasting roofing option. These roofs are constructed using clay or concrete tiles, which are known for their durability and resistance to fire, rot, and insect damage. Tile roofs come in various types, including clay and concrete tiles, each offering unique aesthetics and durability.
Clay Tile Roof
Lifespan: 50 to 100 years
Clay roofs are crafted from natural clay materials and are renowned for their timeless elegance and durability. They are incredibly dense and resistant to various environmental factors. With a lifespan ranging between 50 to 100 years, they offer long-term protection. The tiles’ natural composition and manufacturing process make them highly resistant to fire, moisture, insects, and temperature extremes. Their curved barrel shape also allows for efficient water shedding and air circulation beneath the tiles, further contributing to their extended lifespan.
Concrete Tile Roof
Lifespan: 50 to 75 years
Concrete tile roofs feature tiles made from a mixture of cement, sand, and water, which are then cured and finished to resemble traditional clay tiles or other modern designs. When properly installed and maintained, high-quality concrete tile roofs can provide reliable protection for 50 to 75 years or longer. The tiles are resistant to fire, rot, and insect damage, and their sturdy composition allows them to survive in severe weather conditions, including high winds, hail, and temperature fluctuations.
Wood Shake Roof
Lifespan: 40 to 50 years
Wood shake roofs, typically made from cedar, offer a rustic charm to homes. With proper maintenance, cedar wood shake roofs can last between 40 to 50 years, showcasing durability and weather resistance. Their lifespan depends on factors such as climate and maintenance practices. While cedar wood shakes require regular upkeep, including treatments to prevent moss and rot, their timeless appeal and eco-friendly nature make them a preferred choice for some homeowners.
Contact Prestige Roofing For Your Roofing Needs
At Prestige Roofing, we simplify roof replacements and roof installations. Boasting over 50 years of combined experience, our team guarantees thorough attention to every aspect of your roofing project. Our mission is to help you identify any necessary repairs, major or minor, for your roof to ensure the stability of your home.
Reach out to us at (920) 791-0414 to arrange a complimentary roof inspection. Don’t hesitate to contact us today and let Prestige Roofing preserve the integrity of your roof.