How Long Does a Roof Last?

A new roof is always a lingering concern for homeowners. When you least expect it, a leaky roof can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

How long does a roof last?

The longevity of the roof depends on the material. For example, clay tiles are more durable, with the clay tiles lasting 100 years or longer. Metal roofs can last anywhere from 40 to 70 years.

Rubber roofs last roughly 50 years. Composite roofs have one of the shorter lifespans at 20 years.

Neutral slate roofs offer one of the longest lifespans at 125 years or more. Roof replacement is necessary when you see water spots on your ceiling or walls.

This article will show you the best types of shingles for your home. Let’s explore.

Common Roof Styles

If you want a long-lasting roof, architectural shingles provide more longevity. They’re more durable than asphalt shingles. Moreover, architectural shingles come with additional laminate layers and complex contours.

As a result, homeowners will benefit from an intricate design that draws the eye. With care and maintenance, architectural styles can last anywhere from 30 to 50 years.

In addition to being more expensive, architectural shingles are harder to install.

If you’re looking for an easier installation process, consider metal roof shingles. They’re also stylish in appearance and come in a variety of colors.

More importantly, metal shingles are lightweight, which is an ideal choice for roofs unable to support heavier shingles. You can also choose from various metal shingle types:

Zin
Tin
Steel
Aluminum
Copper

Asphalt shingles are the cheapest you can buy when it comes to installation and labor. They’re also the most common types of shingles found on roofs.

The 3-tab asphalt option is the most affordable and is the thinnest type of asphalt shingle. They also wear out in the shortest amount of time.

Fiberglass shingles work better in hotter climates and resist fire damage. Laborers can also apply fiberglass shingles over older ones, saving you the labor costs of removing the old shingles. However, fiberglass is more expensive than standard asphalt.

Long-lasting Roof Structures

A neutral slate roof consists of such materials as clay and volcanic ash. It’s another roof that will last over 100 years. They come in different colors due to mineral compositions.

It’s also fire-resistant and waterproof. Slate is one of the more durable tiles you can find on the market. It’s also one of the most expensive.

Consider this option if you have a custom home and don’t intend to leave in the short-term. Slate also provides intricate designs and will make your roof stand out from afar.

If you’re willing to spare no expense, tile roofs are among the strongest roofs to install. Consider the following types of roof tiles:

Clay tiles
Composite tiles
Concrete tiles
Bituminous tiles
Metal tiles
Stone slate tiles

Before considering tile, however, talk to a roofing contractor to see if your roof can support the weight. If your roof is too weak, you may have to pay an extra price to have it strengthened.

In addition, tile roofers must install the tiles properly; otherwise, the tiles could slip off in a decade. Also, clay tiles can crack easily in colder weather, which is why you see them mostly in warmer climates.

If tiles aren’t an option, consider concrete roofs, as the material can mimic tiles. It can also mimic the appearance of slate tiles.

Concrete tiles comprise sand, water, and cement. Concrete also comes in a neutral color, allowing you to paint over it with a color of your choosing. They’re also versatile, coming in various styles such as textured or smooth.

They will also protect your home from fire damage, wind damage, and hail damage. In terms of water absorption, however, concrete roofs are the better choice. Concrete roofs have a 13% absorption rate, while clay tiles only have a 6% absorption rate.

Even though concrete tiles are durable, you may still deal with mildew formation due to its porous texture. Therefore, you must devote additional expenses to mildew cleanup and prevention.

Another notable problem is weight. Concrete tiles weigh 40% more than clay tiles. Make sure that your structure can support concrete tiles before hiring a contractor. If you’re unsure about the weight, talk to a roofing specialist to get a professional assessment.

What to Do if Your Roof Leaks

If you notice leaks in your home, grab a bucket and place it under the leaking spot. Then, take a screwdriver and find the center of the bulge. From there, puncture a hole in the center.

A new hole in your ceiling will drain more water and relieve pressure on your roof. The additional pressure could cause your ceiling to collapse.

If you can find the source of the leak, place a tarp on the roof immediately. If you cannot access your roof, call a roofing professional immediately.

With that, a leaking roof may not require a full roof replacement. Instead, your roof could benefit from minor repairs, especially if it’s less than 15 years old.

If you’re unsure about a leaking roof, look for the following warning signs:

Inside Signs: Dark spots and sagging areas
Outside Signs: Warped or rotted shingles, slow-draining gutters, and loose debris surrounding the vents or chimneys

If you’re concerned about price, talk to a roofing contractor to find the best solution.