The age of the roof is one of the best ways in which you can determine, whether it’s time for a replacement or not. Just as with every other thing, the rooftop of your house has a lifespan and after the lifespan is over, it will not operate in the desired way. Even if you are staying in the same house for a long time now, having an idea about the condition of your roof may seem difficult.
That said, it often becomes difficult for homeowners to gauge whether they need to get the rooftop replaced. Did you know? The materials used during the construction of it has a lifespan and the average of it helps determine the time to get it replaced. Know more about roof and roofing materials at rooflock.com.
Today, in our article, we are discussing the different types of roofs, the materials used, and their lifespan to help homeowners make an informed choice.
Average Lifespan Of A Roof
If ever you have availed of services related to the roof of your home before, you know that there are different roofing choices. That said, they are constructed using different materials and their lifespan varies as well. Age is one of the factors that help you determine if you should opt for a new roof.
We are all aware that a roof doesn’t last forever, and so one of the questions that homeowners keep asking themselves is when should they get their roof replaced. There are a lot of factors that impact the lifespan and durability of your roof.
With no further ado, let us know the lifespan of a few different types of roofs to help you make an informed choice, and also know which lasts the longest and which has the shortest lifespan.
Different Roofing Materials And Their Lifespan
1. Asphalt Shingles
It is one of the most commonly used roofing materials in the United States. People consider this material for their roofs because of its durability and cost-effectiveness. Moreover, with this roof type, you get a warranty of almost 25 years. Though the span depends on the company you choose. This type is produced with the help of fibreglass and asphalt sealant.
That said, Asphalt Shingles are quite effective in protecting the structure of your roof from natural elements, like wind, snow, harsh UV, etc.
Most of the Asphalt roofs can last anywhere from 15-30 years. The lifespan also depends on maintenance. Furthermore, the weather conditions of your city play a major role in impacting the lifespan of the rooftop.
2. Metal Roof
Metal roofs when opted for can last anywhere between 40-70 years. This type also comes with warranties to last from anywhere between 20 years to a lifetime. It all depends on the kind of metal your roofing company uses and your maintenance frequency. If you use premium metals like copper or zinc then the roof can last for up to 100 years. Even if they will be an expensive choice, you will not have to go through the hassle of replacing your roof too often.
The different types of metals used are responsible for determining the lifespan of the roof. When you have a metal rooftop, a few signs will depict that you need a roof replacement, like, discolouration, widespread rust, water staining in the attic, roof leak damage, etc.
3. Clay Tile Roof
Another very durable solution when it comes to roofs. Clay tile roofs are extremely durable choices that can last for 50-100 years. Again several factors impact the lifetime of your rooftop. Manufacturers offer a warranty on clay tile roofs anywhere from 30 years to a lifetime. The lifespan of a clay tile roof is very long since the material is resistant to several elements like rot, weather, fire, etc. Furthermore, if you want your clay rooftop to last as long as you expect it to, make sure it is cleaned properly.
If you don’t clean the rooftop regularly, it accumulates algae, moss and molds. This way the roof starts to damage and will continue to, if not treated. Of them, all moss is the most dangerous, since its roots start penetrating the tiles and causes the roof to leak. However, if you live in extremely colder climates, a clay rooftop will last longer there, since thawing and freezing damage the tiles.
4. Slate Tile Roof
This roofing material has the longest life expectancy and lasts longer than any other choice. They can last for a period ranging from 75 to 200 years. Some of the slate tile manufacturers also offer a warranty for a lifetime on their roof, since they are the most durable of all. Additionally, several manufacturers offer warranties that range from 50 years to a lifetime.
The holding capacity of slate tiles is great and they can easily withstand all elements and weather conditions that include, changing temperature, high weather, etc. Furthermore, you will be delighted to know that slate tiles require very less maintenance and they are good to go. It is because they don’t retain any moisture.
Though you should know that the slate material is very heavy, as only 100 square feet of slate can weigh around 1,000 pounds. Before you get a slate roof installed at your home, you should get the roofing system of your space inspected and know if it can take up heavyweight.
You may have to opt for rooftop replacement if you see missing shingles, cracked shingles or water damage in the attic.
Conclusion
The lifespan of the roof is somewhat in your hands as well. That said, if you want to make it last longer, you should schedule regular maintenance and checkup sessions with roofing contractors. This way they will make sure there are no possible threats to your roof, and that it should be fine until the next inspection. With a trusted roofing company you can make sure that your space gets the best roof and that it lasts for a decent period.
