Residential and Commercial Roofing Blog

We've Done Roofing Installation & Repair for Decades

How Long Do Roofs Last?

Posted on Saturday, October 1st, 2022 at 11:23 am    

how long do roofs lastWhen people talk about having a secure place to live, there is a good reason they often use the phrase “having a roof over your head.” As a homeowner, you know that having a high-quality roof will help keep you safe from the elements. A good roof will also help save money on your energy bills by insulating your home.

Like everything else, however, roofs don’t last forever. Knowing how long your roof will last will help you understand what kind of return on investment you can expect when you have one installed. Furthermore, it will give you a good idea of when to replace your roof.

What Is the Average Lifespan of a Roof?

The average lifespan of a roof will depend on several factors, including:

  • Whether your roof is installed correctly
  • Whether your attic is adequately ventilated
  • The weather to which your roof is exposed
  • The quality of the materials

However, the most important factor determining how long your roof will last is what type of roofing material you have.

Asphalt Roof Lifespans

The most common type of roof used on homes today is an architectural asphalt shingle roof. However, there are also two other types of asphalt shingles: 3-tab and luxury. Even though all three of these types of roofs are constructed with asphalt shingles, you can expect a different lifespan from each variety.

  • 3-tab shingles have the shortest lifespan of the three types, at around 25 years.
  • Architectural shingles have a lifespan of 30 years.
  • Luxury shingles also have a lifespan of 30 years. Yet because they are thicker than architectural shingles, many homeowners can expect that they will last even longer in perfect conditions.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Lifespans

Standing seam metal roofs are made up of panels that are either seamed mechanically or locked together at the seams. The benefit of this type of roof is that the seams allow the panels to expand and contract freely when the roof undergoes temperature changes.

A new standing seam metal roof will come with a painted finish that protects the metal from the elements for a minimum of 30 years. In the right conditions, however, this type of roof may last up to 50 years.

Synthetic Roof Lifespans

Also known as composite shingles, synthetic shingles are constructed of recycled materials. They are designed to simulate the appearance of slate or cedar shake roofs. Synthetic roofs can last up to 40–50 years.

These shingles are among the most durable roofing materials on the market because they often have the highest possible impact rating. This means they can withstand just about any extreme elements, including hail. Unlike regular slate or cedar shakes, you can walk on a synthetic roof without breaking the shingles.

Cedar Shake Roof Lifespans

cedar roof shingles - how long do they lastAs the name implies, cedar shake roofs are made mostly of natural wooden materials. You can expect a cedar shake roof to last up to 30 years if it is properly installed and maintained. Some cedar shake roofs might last up to 50 years in ideal conditions.

One thing to keep in mind about cedar shake shingles is that they are natural and do not come with a manufacturer’s warranty. However, you should be able to protect your investment with your roofing contractor’s workmanship warranty.

Slate Roof Lifespans

Slate roofs are also made primarily of natural materials. With proper installation and flashing, your slate roof may cover your home for generations. Many slate roofs last at least 75 years and sometimes up to 100. As far as roofing materials go, a slate roof is one of the most durable investments you can make for yourself, your children, and even your grandkids.

Contact Kidd Roofing Today

If you are building a new home and would like to invest in the roof that will best suit your needs, or if you believe your old roof has reached the end of its lifetime, you should consult with a certified roofing professional as soon as you can.

The roof repair and installation professionals at Kidd Roofing have been meeting the roofing needs of homeowners and commercial property owners in Texas and Colorado since 1982. We have been consistently recognized as one of the top roofing companies in the country. We offer everything from emergency repairs to maintenance, to total roof replacements in Austin, Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and Denver, CO.

We are here for you when you need us. Request an inspection and quote by calling (866) 671-7791 today.

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