Treating your home with the utmost care is essential for any responsible homeowner, and perhaps the most important part of your home is your roof.
It is vital to know just how long will your roof last and when you need to get it inspected. Often, the roof is a part of the home taken for granted, and it is easy to forget that it still needs upkeep.
The Duration of Your Roof
How long your roof lasts is ultimately determined by the materials used in its construction. Roofs are composed of a diverse array of materials, and though some are more common than types, always make sure you know what type of material your roof is.
Some materials, like metal standing seam roofing, can last over half a century.
Asphalt shingle roofing lasts a more modest quarter of a century, maybe less.
Structure of Your Roof
Of course, just as important as the materials your roof is its construction. The structure is quintessential in upkeeping and understanding what materials will work best for your home.
Knowing about the deck, ice/water barrier, underlayment (for additional weather protection), ventilation, and flashing allows for a better understanding of your home work.
How to Construct a Long-Lasting Roof
The first and most important factor in constructing your long-lasting roof is to find a contractor you trust with this project.
Whether replacing a roof, building a new one, or just a check-up, a competent contractor could add decades to your roof.
If you find a contractor you trust, keep them up to date on everything to do with your roof when the time comes.
Climate is Important
As the saying goes, location is everything. Understanding the weather your roof contends with will be crucial to maintaining it.
Strong winds, heavy rain, and hail must be accounted for when determining how long will a roof last. Some climates may require stronger roofs, as extreme weather can easily damage or destroy weaker materials.
Roof Inspection
One of the most sure-fire ways to keep your roof in tip-top shape is to have it inspected annually. This way, contractors (who can often be the ones who built the roof for you) can notify you of any signs of wear or damage before it is too late.
Prices vary depending on the size of your home, but it will be at least a few hundred dollars if not several thousand. Drone and infrared inspections provide a newer, albeit more expensive alternative to this process.
What About Shingles?
A question that many people are probably pondering is; how do shingles, in general, compare with some other types of roofing? Shingles do seem to be one of the most common types of roofing people often choose.
The average shingle roof can last even decades. Some higher-end types can last even longer while resisting over one hundred miles per hour winds.
How Great is Slate?
Potentially lasting over one hundred years in some environments, slate roofing has a lot to offer homeowners looking for a long-term investment. Not only does it offer some of the best longevity on the market, but appearance-wise it is one of the more aesthetically pleasing roofing materials on the market.
The only downside is its price. Slate is the most expensive option available, often used in affluent areas.
Tile: The Tropical Preference
Tile is another visually pleasing roofing material, but it is practical too. Tile roofing allows for cooling and heating efficiency and superb water resistance.
While preferred in tropical areas, that does not mean this material can not work in cooler climates. Tile roofs can last for several decades as long as they are correctly cared for by their owners.
Thatched Roof? Are These Still Around?
Yes, thatched roofs are still a thing, a surprising fact followed by the even more surprising fact that they can last quite a long time. The core part of a thatched roof can last for around half a century.
However, every eight to ten years the roof ridge will need replacing. The whole process must be performed by thatched roof professionals and can be expensive. The more rustic look is worth it to many homeowners.
Knowing When to Replace a Roof
Keeping in mind the things mentioned above, knowing the life expectancy and when to replace your roof should be a cakewalk. You will need to pay attention to your roof’s quality whenever a severe storm occurs in your area, like a hurricane or tornado.
House fires are also an obvious danger to the quality of your roof, even if it was not part of the house burned. Work with your preferred insurance company to get the best claim for you.
Things to Know When Replacing a Roof
One important thing to know when considering replacing a roof is that a roof can affect a house’s value, depending on its age.
If a defective roof may mean you cannot sell at the price you wanted – local regulations may prevent sale until repaired. Regardless, it is best to start plans to replace a defective roof as soon as possible.
Roof Contractors
Like many in the construction business, roof contractors can vary wildly. Doing your in-depth research beforehand is always essential in ensuring your roof is constructed to the standard you want.
Most roofing contractors offer more than just building, allowing long-standing working relationships between contractors and clients.
So How Long Does a Roof Last?
The short answer is that it varies. There are numerous different types of roof structures, materials, and climates that all influence the longevity of your roof.
The average roof lasts about twenty to thirty years, which translates to two or three roof replacements in a lifetime.
