Roofing is a complex process that requires a careful balance of design, materials, and installation. This article will provide an overview of the roof lifecycle and how it can be managed to keep your home safe from damage.
How Long Will New Shingles Last?
Using new shingles for your roof can make your home look great, but it can also make it difficult to determine how long they will last. There are many factors that can impact the lifespan of the roof, including how well your shingles are installed, how much traffic your roof receives, how well you maintain the roof, and what materials they were made from. Shingles can be made up of asphalt, wood, clay, or metal and come in a variety of shapes and sizes, all affecting how long your roof lasts.
What Factors Affect the Lifespan of a Roof?
Roofs are an essential part of the house. They provide protection from the elements and help to maintain a comfortable temperature inside the house. It is important to know how long a roof is expected to last to determine whether any specific roof is best for your needs. The lifespan of a roof will depend on many variables such as material, location, maintenance, and more. The lifespan of asphalt roofs in colder climates is typically less than those in warmer climates because they can be damaged by ice dams and snow loading. Wood shake roofs are also more susceptible to sun damage than other types of roofing materials like steel or concrete shingles so they have a shorter lifespan as well.
Top 10 Most Common Factors that Impact How Long Your Roof Lasts
- The construction of the roof (materials)
- The slope of the roof (steep or gentle)
- How much foot traffic there is on the roof (heavy or light)
- What type of weather conditions it’s exposed to (sun, rain, snow, wind)
- How well the shingles are installed
- If the shingles are sealed well
- How well they are maintained
- How well the shingles are insulated
- Roofing color changes how much sunlight they absorb
- How long your shingles have been on your roof
How Much Does it Cost to Do a New Roof and Install New Shingles?
The cost of residential roof replacement and shingle installation is highly dependent on the type of roof you want to install, the size of your house, and the materials. Many factors affect the cost, so knowing how to choose the best shingle for you is very important.
How To Choose The Best Type Of Shingle For Your Home
Choosing the best type of roofing shingle for your new roof is a difficult decision because there are many factors to consider including cost, durability, and aesthetics. Along with these factors, it’s important to take into account the type of weather your house will be in on a regular basis. Talking to a roofing contractor about the roofing services for your home in the area you live as well as getting a roof inspection is the best way to know which Shingle is best for you.
Asphalt roof shingles
Asphalt roof shingles like the 3 tab shingle, dimensional shingle (also known as architectural shingle), or strip shingles are the most common residential roofing material for housing and are a great option for your shingle choice. The life of your shingles depends on the type of shingle and the climate in which you live. Generally, some premium shingles that are asphalt last for 20 to 30 years. Architectural shingles are Asphalt roof shingles that have extra strength and a longer warranty. Asphalt shingle roofing seal and prevent a roof leak in the same way as standard asphalt shingles, but are reinforced for higher wind speeds. These shingles are also designed to look like natural cedar shake or slate shingles.
An Asphalt shingle roof is a cost-effective way to protect your home from the elements. They provide a durable layer of protection against UV rays, wind, and moisture. Although asphalt shingles are durable, they do not last as long as wooden shakes or other types of roofing materials. Asphalt shingles are also susceptible to damage from algae, which grows in humid climates. Asphalt roofing can also expand and contract with fluctuations in temperature which can weaken the shingles. This can be easily avoided with proper maintenance and care.
Metal Roofs
If you are looking for a shingle that will last longer in harsh weather conditions like high winds, then having a metal roof is the best option. A metal roof may be more expensive than other options such as asphalt shingles or wood shake roofing. Many choose metal roofing so they can have a longer lifespan than standard Asphalt by around 20 – 30 years in some cases and are far more durable. Metal roofing isn’t like typical shingle roofs but they provide other benefits than more typical shingle roofs can. Metal roofs are especially resistant to high winds because they don’t fall apart. Clay tile roofs and slate metal roofing is more expensive but far lighter when placed on the roof which can increase overall lifespan, especially on a new roof. Depending on the type of shingles they can be very loud when changing temperatures and during harsh weather.
Clay Tile Roofs
Clay tile roofs provide a natural look and can last up to 50 years however, they are fragile and break easily if not installed correctly. The Clay tile roof is durable and long-lasting and is a good alternative to Asphalt or slate. Clay tile roofs are more expensive and far heavier but last on average around twice as long as Asphalt making clay tiles a much more cost-effective alternative.
Wood shingles
Depending on the quality of the wood, wood shingles can last anywhere from 15 to 30 years. The lifespan of a wood shingle depends on how they’re installed, and the climate in your area. Along with their aesthetic appeal using wood like cedar can provide a natural insect repellent, and they can last for as long as 40 years with proper maintenance. You’ll want to treat your cedar shingles every 5-7 years. Topical treatment can help prolong the life of your shingles and can be applied to the roof with a brush. Using a sealant is also recommended, but it should be applied with a roller. Inspecting your roof each year will help you detect signs of natural deterioration and damage. If shingles do begin to split, it’s important to replace them immediately. During heavy weather, you may notice that some shingles begin to crack or pop up but being vigilant about checking your shingles leaves you with shingles that will last you.