How Long Does a Residential Roof Last?

A roof’s life expectancy depends on several factors, including the type and quality of construction materials, installation, and maintenance over the years. In addition, climate and environmental conditions also significantly impact the life expectancy of roofs. For example, heavy rainfalls and high winds can damage some types of roofs more than others. But, on the other hand, a properly installed and maintained roof can last for decades.

Below are approximate life expectancies for the various residential roofs based on the roofing material and environmental factors.

Asphalt Shingle Roofs

On average, asphalt shingles have a lifespan of around 25 years. It’s one of the favorite choices of homeowners, but asphalt shingles ask for lots of maintenance and aren’t suitable for areas with extreme weather conditions.

Asphalt shingles come in many styles and textures, each with unique benefits and limitations. Standard three-tab asphalt shingles are the least expensive, but they typically have a short lifespan of only 10-15 years. Other premium shingles will last 20-30 years, but they’re often more expensive.

Wood Shakes Roof

A wood shake roof typically has a lifespan of 30-40 years. Cedar shakes are more resistant to rot, so they last even longer. They’re excellent at withstanding extremely windy conditions but aren’t good choices for areas with high levels of rainfall.

Wood shake roof only last if you religiously do the maintenance, including yearly cleaning and new staining every five years.

Metal Roofs

Metal roofs have a lifespan of about 50 years. Metal roofs are excellent because they’re resistant to fire and wind damage, don’t require much maintenance, and keep homes cooler during hot summer months. They’re a popular choice for warmer climates and areas with high wind speeds, but they tend to be more expensive than other options.

Stone-coated metal tile roofs are the most efficient at withstanding hurricane and hail damage because the stone finish prevents rusting and scratching.

Clay Tile Roofs

With a life span of up to 100 years, clay tile roofs are one of the most durable options. However, these roofs are only suitable for moderate weather conditions.

These roofs are incredibly resistant to fire and rot and require a little maintenance but should be checked for loose tiles occasionally and repaired immediately to avoid water damage.

Slate Tile Roofs

Known as ‘forever roofs’ because they last hundreds of years, slate roofs require very little maintenance and are resistant to fire and rot. Slate roofs are suitable for every type of weather, but the downfall is that they’re usually very heavy and require special installation methods.

Roofs are the most exposed part of your home, and they must stay in good condition to keep the weather out. Therefore, you need the best professionals to construct, repair, inspect, and maintain your roof. Vanity roofing INC is a leading Ottawa residential roofing company that provides quality roofing solutions to its clients.

Call us today at 613-851-4448 with any questions or to schedule an appointment with a roofing professional. We offer free estimates and provide complete service to all domestic and commercial clients.