This question worries all homeowners. Roofing has limited service life; after its end, the roof needs to be replaced. But this period depends on the roof’s material and other factors — for example, climatic conditions.
The second most important question for homeowners is: How long will a roof last? And here, too, you must take some factors into account.
Types of roofing materials
Severe weather conditions reduce the life of the roof. The consequences of constant winds and rains cannot but affect them. If the top is exposed to impacts and extreme temperatures, it will last less than we would like. However, you can calculate the approximate service life of the roof when installing the top, starting from the selected coating material. Engaging a reputable roofing service is crucial in ensuring the longevity of your home. Explore companies like roofing at Fort Wayne or in any other locations.
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● Clay or cement tiles. Such material is the heaviest and most durable. A roof with this coating will last at least 50 years. At best, it will last for 100 years.
● Slate. If a slate roof is installed correctly, it can last a lifetime. Such roofs serve from 75 to 100 years.
● Composite (synthetic) coating. These tiles are made from recycled materials. You can give it any look. For example, such a roof may look like slate or cedar. The service life of a composite roof is from 40 to 50 years.
● Rubber cover. People often use such roofs in commercial premises but are found in residential ones. This coating is the most popular type of flat roof. Rubber roofing is a single-layer membrane consisting of synthetic rubber, elastomer and thermoplastic materials; its lifespan is about 30 to 50 years.
● Metal roofing. Here, much depends on the chosen metal, its thickness and the quality of installation. An aluminium roof, for example, lasts less than a galvanized steel roof. But on average, a metal roof has to be changed after 40–50 years.
● Cedar tree. Such roofs are made of natural wood. They can last up to 50 years in a suitable climate, but the average cedar cover lasts 30 years.
● Luxurious shingles. This roofing is popular with homeowners. It has a good appearance and lasts an average of 20–30 years. With proper care and regular maintenance, the roof will last for 40 years.
● Architectural shingles. The service life of such shingles is also 20–30 years and depends on weather conditions. In areas with a mild climate, this tile will last longer.
● Bituminous shingles with three tabs. Three-tongue shingles are the primary type of bituminous coating. This coating is the most affordable; therefore, it attracts thrifty buyers. Roofs made of three-tongue shingles serve 20–25 years, but premium brands are enough for a more extended period.
Roofing may differ, but the period after which you have to replace the roof depends on other points. From maintenance, weather factors and more.
Timely and quality maintenance
I want the roof to only require replacement at the very end of its service life. Therefore, it is essential to carry out regular maintenance. By keeping your gutters clean and free from clogging and checking for loose, broken, or damaged tiles, you can avoid costly repairs and prolong the life of your roof.
Proper installation of the roof
You must install the roof correctly from the very beginning. This can ensure both a long service life of the top and the safety of funds. Therefore, contacting a competent roofing contractor is essential at the first stage. When looking for a specialist, you can ask friends and acquaintances, study reviews and ratings on companies providing the necessary services, and contact people who have already worked with this contractor.
The competent services of a roofing company are an essential factor for your comfort, safety of funds and long life of the roof.
Roof condition
You should know the roof’s age and prepare for its replacement. However, the terms can significantly shift in one direction or another, depending on the roofing condition. The top may have to be replaced earlier, or the old roof will last a long time.
Roof damage signs:
● There were leaks;
● There are wet spots on the ceiling;
● Mold, rotting, unpleasant smell appeared;
● Roof sagged;
● Holes appeared;
● Shingles are loose or cracked;
● Debris has accumulated in the ditch.
If the roof has been damaged due to bad weather, it is worth replacing it as soon as possible.
Other circumstances affecting the service life of the coating
Sometimes the angle of inclination of the roof is essential. If the roof is not steep enough, rainwater can accumulate on it, provoking early decay and damage to the coating.
If the roof has a weak underlying layer, moisture and decay will quickly damage the shingles and destroy the coating.
The roof may only endure the hottest or coldest season if the attic is adequately insulated or poorly ventilated. Roof insulation will help prevent ice build-up and relieve stress on the shingles.
And, of course, you should always consider the climate’s peculiarities. For example, if there are severe weather conditions in the area of residence, you should be prepared for the fact that the roof will last less than expected.
When to start preparing for a roof replacement
Remembering that the roof will have to be changed in due time, it is worth starting to plan the necessary expenses. The average service life of the most popular coating – architectural shingles – is 25 years. So, a few years before the expiration of this time, you can already start planning a budget and looking for a roofing contractor. And here, the roof must work out its full term so that it does not bring surprises and does not put the owner in a difficult position ahead of time.
The roof will not fail if the homeowner complies with the rules:
● Initially installed the roof correctly;
● Ensure that the attic is well-ventilated;
● Provided regular checks.
If the roofing has a longer service life, then the owner will have to prepare to replace the roof later. However, if you change the top, it is worth remembering that for the best result, saving money and time, you need to use only professional roofing service.
