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If you own a home or a commercial property or possibly looking to purchase either, you might be wondering how long the roof should last. You might wonder how long the roof will protect your home or building or how you can get the most out of your investment. On average, a roof lasts anywhere between 25 to 50 years! The type of roof and its quality, durability, and materials can determine a roof’s life expectancy.
When purchasing a roof, homeowners and commercial property owners normally get what they pay for. The larger the investment, the longer the roof will provide protection. However, there are a variety of options homeowners and commercial property owners should consider when deciding which type of roofing material best meets their needs.
Type of Roofs and The Life Expectancy
Three-Tab Asphalt Shingles: This type of roof lasts 15 to 20 years, making it an excellent choice for any home. Three-tab shingles are created to look like three individual shingles but are, in fact, all one piece. They provide some texture and lay flat on your roof, resulting in a clean, smooth finish. Three-tab shingles are also offered in a variety of colors, allowing homeowners to choose which color best suits their style. These shingles are designed to protect your home from rain, snow, and sun exposure, and do not require a lot of maintenance.
Wood Shingles: Wood shingle roofs are usually made from cedar, spruce, or pine and offer a more natural, rustic look that is affordable. Although most wood roofs last up to 30 years, it is important to remember that the wood will need continuous care and can be vulnerable to termites, fires, mold, mildew, and other damage caused by storms.
Metal Roof: The price and lifespan of a metal roof depends on the thickness of the metal you pick. Thinner metal roofs will last 20 to 25 years; however, by picking thick, quality material, you can expect your roof to last over 50 years. Metal roofs are becoming more common because they have a longer life expectancy than asphalt roofs, but they are a higher investment cost.
Architectural Asphalt Shingles: If you pick shingles as your material of choice, then this is a great option. There are a variety of types made of thicker more durable materials providing a lifespan of 30 or even 50 years. Architectural asphalt shingles come in different colors and provide homes a layered look.
Composite Shingles: This type of shingle is designed to look like wood or slate tiles but are actually made of polymer, rubber, or plastic. They are less expensive than slate but still a costly investment for a less durable material. When compared to the wood tiles they imitate, composite shingles last longer and provide more protection from heat, hail, and fire depending on which option you pick. There are multiple color options to choose from and they will last anywhere from 40 to over 50 years.
Slate Tiles: Slate tiles provide a high degree of durability and have one of the longest average lifespans for a roof. Their lifespan can surpass 50 years and sometimes almost up to 100. Since they can resist hail, heat, snow, and moisture, slate tiles are an excellent option for Midwest homes. Due to how expensive and heavy they are, the number of contractors that install them is limited. It is recommended that homeowners consult a structural engineer to decide if your home can handle the weight.
Commercial and Flat Roof Lifespans
EPDM: This type of roofing is made of synthetic rubber material, is affordable, and easy to apply. Depending on how well it is maintained, EPDM can last from 25 to 30 years or more.
PVC: This type of flat roof contains a vinyl membrane, providing the most energy efficiency because it is UV resistant and reflects the sun due to its white color. It is a costly investment but will last over 20 years.
TPO: Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) is a single-ply option for flat roofs whose seam strength is stronger than EPDM. It is less expensive than PVC; however, it is not as flexible and lasts between 15 to 20 years.
Spray Foam: Spray foam is a great option for commercial roofs. The life expectancy depends on the thickness of the foam and the coating. If it is maintained and follows a regular recoating schedule, it can last well over 50 years.
As a homeowner or commercial property owner, you can get the most out of your roof by attentively and regularly assessing the overall health of your roof. You can extend your roof’s lifespan by engaging in proactive maintenance and annual inspections.
When it comes to the life expectancy of your roof, you want to make sure it lasts as long as it can before having to replace it. Let’s face it, replacing a roof is a major investment no matter what type you choose. If you are having a difficult time choosing which type of roof best suits your needs or simply need an inspection of your current roof, contact Tesson Roofing & Exteriors, LLC at (314) 932-1042. Our team members are experts in the roofing industry and can answer any questions you may have. Call us today!