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Call for FREE ESTIMATE Just like any other system of your home, your roof is subject to a lifespan of its own. But as one of the most important systems — it protects everything else inside — a failing roof should be a homeowner’s priority. Unfortunately, most of us don’t pay enough attention to our roofing until we experience a problem.
Taking care of your roof should be like taking care of anything else in our lives. But because we don’t usually get a birds-eye view of our roofing system, it can be difficult to assess if there is an issue until it affects the interior of our home. Your roof may become more subject to problems as it ages. So how long is the functional lifespan of a roof?
The average lifespan of your roof will be determined by many factors.
● The materials it’s made of
● The quality of those materials
● The color of the roof (dark roofing materials absorb more heat)
● The angle and orientation of the roof slope
● The quality of workmanship of the installation
● Weather conditions
● If there is adequate attic ventilation
● Maintenance
Roofing Materials Average Longevity
● Asphalt shingles — Today, asphalt shingles are the most commonly used across the country with the average lifespan of a shingle roof ranging from 15 years to 30 years depending on the manufacturer. Architectural shingles will last longer than their counterparts.
● Wood shingles have an approximate lifespan of 30 years but require more upkeep to ensure that lifespan.
● Clay tile roofs have a longevity of about 50 years.
● Metal roofs have a large range of longevity due to the fact that there is a broad range of metal roofing thicknesses with longevity spanning 20 years to a lifetime.
● Slate roofs have the longest lifespan from 50 years to a lifetime. These require a reinforced system because of the sheer weight of the slate tiles.
Why Maintenance Matter
Proper maintenance can have a huge impact on the longevity of your roof. In many cases, you can keep your roof’s longevity at a maximum just by keeping watchful of things that may indicate an early problem.
You should watch for warping and loss of any shingles or shingle granules, particularly after a large weather event. Areas that are also typically problematic are around openings in your roof such as roof vents, plumbing vents, chimneys, and skylights. Check your attic periodically for areas that may indicate leaks.
Other areas that you should be watchful for that may decrease your roof’s longevity include:
● Sagging
● Debris
● Overloaded gutters
● Rot
● Moss growth
Attic Ventilation and Insulation
You may not be aware that your attic can affect the longevity of your roof if not properly insulated and ventilated. Summertime temperatures can reach and even exceed 160 degrees in an attic area that is not properly ventilated. This can damage shingles and warp the rafters, compromising roof integrity. Insulating and ventilating your attic will help reduce heat transfer and reduce temperatures at your roof system.
Inspection of Your Roof
Your roof should be inspected periodically, especially after harsh weather events. Having a professional roof inspection ensures that your largest home system is protecting you like as should.
If you are looking to have your roof assessed, call the San Mateo roofer you can trust. At Shelton Roofing, we have been offering professional roofing services for over 75 years. Call us today and we would be glad to discuss any roofing needs you may have.