Replacing your roof adds considerable value to your home, yielding an ROI of over 65 %. It’s also one of the most expensive alterations you can do. So, how long does a roof last?
On the upside, you will get to enjoy the benefits of a roof for years to come.
So, how long does a roof last? Roof materials and maintenance are the main criteria for determining the lifespan of a roof.
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How Long Does a Roof Last When it’s Well Maintained?
All performance of roof materials depends on how often you inspect it for damage and act accordingly. This is especially important after extreme weather events.
Fixing small issues fast means you’ll avoid big problems later.
This is what you can expect from the most popular types of roofing if you invest in ongoing maintenance.
The Best Roof Materials to Extend Your Roof Lifespan
All these time frames count on a full replacement for a roof that’s well-maintained from the start. These are the longest-lasting roof materials for your new roof:
Slate Tile Roofs
A slate tile roof is one of the most expensive roofing options, but it’ll reward you with 100 years or more of faithful service. Slate’s an attractive, durable choice that can withstand the elements.
Unfortunately, slate roofing is heavy, and you might need to reinforce your rafters to support the weight of your new roof.
Metal Roofs
Aluminum and steel roofing can last up to 70 years.
You can choose from a multitude of colors to suit your home’s style and it’s suited to both residential as well as commercial buildings.
Thanks to all these options, you can find metal roofing to suit any type of budget. In general, the more expensive the materials you choose, the longer your roof will last.
Clay Tile Roofs
Clay tile’s a classic choice for roofs and usually has an attractive terracotta color. It’s another expensive choice, but it’s low maintenance and could last for up to 50 years.
Most manufacturers of clay roof tiles offer at least a 30-year warranty on their work.
Shingle Roofs
Wood shingles fade to an appealing shade of gray over time. You’ll need to replace any warped or loose wood shingles promptly if you want your roof to last up to 30 years. Wood shingles look particularly good on Tudor-style homes.
Architectural shingles can have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years. They’re three times thicker than asphalt shingles and made to mimic other popular types of roofing like shale.
Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing in the US and can last up to 30 years. They’re the cheapest type of roofing and provide good protection from the wind, rain, and sun.
Asphalt shingles comprise layers of organic materials and cement fibers on a layer of asphalt. This bottom layer warms up in the sun and becomes sticky, forming a watertight seal for your home.
Make Great Choices for Your Home
If your building or home’s showing signs you need a new roof, you’ll need to consider the issue of ‘how long does a roof last?’ before replacing a roof.
Use this guide to make the best decision regarding your new roof’s lifespan and keep browsing our blog if you need more home improvement and maintenance information.
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