What Is the Average Lifespan of My Roof?

If you live in a home that’s at least 15-20 years old, it’s likely that roof replacement is on your radar for upcoming exterior improvement projects.

However, aside from age, your roof's lifespan depends on plenty of other variables, like your climate and the skill level of your contractor. It's essential to understand how these factors impact your roofing system, so you can invest in a replacement at just the right time.

Keep reading to learn the average lifespan of a roofing system and the best materials to use for your upcoming replacement so that you can enjoy the benefits of a lasting roof!

How Long Does a Roof Last?

Generally, your roof will last somewhere between 25-30 years.

However, not all roofing systems are created equal. It’s important to understand your roof’s lifespan will vary depending on external factors, like the weather, and quality-related details, like the brand you select for your installation.

Which Factors Impact My Roof’s Life Expectancy?

The following factors will most significantly impact the length of time your roof lasts:

• Installation—If your roofing system was installed by an inexperienced roofer, you may experience performance issues that will shorten your roof’s lifespan.
• Quality—Choosing high-quality materials from reputable brands will likely lengthen your roof’s life, while selecting shoddy materials from inferior brands will shorten it.
• Environment—Continual exposure to harsh weather, like high winds, heavy snow, and hailstorms, will likely minimize the number of years your roof lasts.
• Material—The roofing material you choose will impact the life expectancy of your roof. Some materials, like asphalt roofing shingles, have a shorter life expectancy than other materials, like metal.

Lifespans of Popular Types of Roofing Materials

Asphalt Shingles

Lifespan: 15-30 years

Asphalt roofing shingles are the most popular roofing material in the United States. They are made from a fiberglass mat coated with waterproof asphalt and covered with ceramic granules. They come in three variations: three-tab, architectural, and premium shingles.

Homeowners love asphalt roofing shingles because they are affordable, versatile, and include lasting warranties. While these roofing shingles offer great protection from the elements, like rain, wind, and snow, they are prone to cracking in fluctuating temperatures.

Asphalt roofing shingles have a shorter lifespan than other roofing materials. However, investing in a high-quality brand will ensure several decades of performance from your roofing system.

Metal Roofing

Lifespan: 50-70 years

Metal roofing is one of the longest-lasting roofing materials on the market. This type of roofing popularly comes in two styles: standing seam metal roofing and stone coated steel tiles.

Metal roofing is made from high-quality materials, like copper, zinc, or steel, and can mimic the look of popular natural materials, like wood, without the frustrating upkeep. Besides being low-maintenance, metal roofing can withstand high winds and is also incredibly durable and attractive.

Since metal roofing is strong and lasting, it’s one of the costliest roofing materials. However, after installing metal roofing, you’ll experience an incredible return on investment and won’t have to worry about a replacement ever again!

Wood Shakes

Lifespan: 20-30 years

Wood shakes offer the perfect blend of classic beauty and energy-efficient performance. Typically, wooden roofing shingles are made from western red cedar because this abundant natural material is resistant to weather damage, pests, and rot.

While cedar shakes are attractive, they are incredibly high maintenance. Wood roofing shingles require frequent upkeep and need to be cleaned, stained, and painted often. Cedar shakes are also prone to fire damage, but they can be treated with a fire retardant to minimize their flammability.

Cedar shingles will last for several decades if they’re adequately cared for. However, if neglected, they will deteriorate quickly.

Synthetic Roofing Shingles

Lifespan: 30-50 years

Synthetic roofing shingles, also known as composite roofing, are made from recycled materials, like rubber and plastic. This eco-friendly option can mimic slate, cedar, or asphalt roofing while protecting your home with a low-maintenance, fireproof covering.

Since synthetic shingles aren’t made from natural materials like wood, they are designed to outlast most other roofing options. They’re also created to stand up to harsh weather, withstand powerful impacts, and offer homeowners easy upkeep.

Synthetic roofing shingles don’t have many disadvantages—aside from the cost. This roofing material is usually more expensive than asphalt, wood, and metal roofing shingles because it is uniquely designed to satisfy your roof’s needs. However, once installed, it’ll last a lifetime!

Find the Perfect Roofing Material for Your Dayton Home with American Way Exteriors

Are you interested in learning more about the roofing materials listed above?

If so, we’ve got you covered! American Way Exteriors expertly installs asphalt, metal, wood, and synthetic roofing shingles, so Dayton homeowners can enjoy lasting performance and valuable curb appeal from their roofing system.

Learn more about our residential roofing services to discover how our reliable team can help make your upcoming roof replacement a success!