Are you considering buying or selling a home? The roof of a house can be a significant investment, and there are some things you should know when it comes to the average life expectancy of a roof. Several factors can affect a roof’s longevity, both increasing and decreasing its useful life. The good news is you can control some of these factors. The not-so-good news is you cannot control some of the other factors.
Factors That Affect Your Roof’s Lifespan
There are many factors that affect the lifespan of a roof. Here are some of them.
- Material
The material that you use to build a roof is one of the most critical factors to consider as some roof materials are more durable than others. There are multiple material options for your roof. You’ll need to consult with an expert local roof company to decide which roofing material is best for your home, climate, etc.
Some of the different materials available with the range of lifespan are:
- Asphalt shingle roofs are the most popular in the US as they are affordable and offer other benefits as well. They are made to last for about 30 years, but proper care can make them last for up to 50 years.
- Slate, tile, and concrete roofs are believed to be the most long-standing. They are made to last for about 50 years, but proper installation and care can make them last for over a hundred years.
- Wood is said to be among the worst choices as wooden roofs only last for about 20 years. Plus, they are not suitable for all weather conditions.
- Metal roofs are quite durable. You can choose from a variety of metals, including steel and aluminum. They can last for over 50 years, and they offer other benefits as they are easy to maintain and highly energy efficient.
- Installation
It is essential to hire a competent and experienced roofing contractor to install the roof. Workmanship errors are among the most common causes of premature roof failures. Installation defects can lead to premature replacements and early deterioration. Make sure you work with a contractor who understands the business and has expert laborers to get the job done.
- Slope
The pitch of a roof is crucial as this determines how the roof sheds water. Plus, it can also affect the aesthetics and improve the overall look of the house.
- Climate
The roof shields your home against outside elements, including natural elements. However, extreme weather conditions can put a lot of pressure on the roof and can cause it to sustain damage over time, which may even reduce its lifespan. This is why you should always keep the weather conditions in mind when choosing a roofing material. Everything from torrential downpours to hailstorms to strong winds can damage the roof.
- Age
At the end of the day, your roof will eventually require a replacement. You can follow the above-given tips to enhance the lifespan of a roof, but you can’t have a roof with an infinite lifespan. Age will eventually catch up.
- Sun Exposure
Sun is good for your health, but it can be bad for the roof on your house. Excessive heat can accelerate wear and tear, especially if the ceiling is painted a dark color. Dark roof colors can absorb more heat, which can damage the roof.
- Ventilation
Ventilation is essential for a lot of reasons. It makes the space comfortable and strengthens the roof. Poor ventilation can cause the shingles to weaken. This is especially true in the case of asphalt shingles.
Poorly ventilated attics do not have an escape route for heat and moisture, which can cause them to build up. The heat and humidity can damage the shingles from the inside. Proper ventilation would allow this heat and moisture buildup to escape and keep the attic cooler
- Insulation
Poor insulation combined with poor ventilation can make it harder to regulate indoor temperatures.
This is why it is essential to insulate every corner. It not only adds years to the roof but also reduces your energy bills.
- Maintenance
Lack of and poor maintenance can cause even the most durable roofs to crack and damage. You must carefully inspect the roof and ensure there is no damage. Get in touch with professional roofing contractors if you see signs of damage, including leaks, broken or missing shingles, and cracks. Some roof types are easier to maintain than others.
At No. 1 Home Roofing, we encourage you to be diligent when researching a contractor to install your next roof, especially since a roof protects your home or all of the contents in the property. We can guide you through the process and produce a quality product.
No. 1 Home Roofing is a family-owned and operated roofing company conveniently located on US Highway 19 in Palm Harbor, Florida. We are dedicated to providing top quality workmanship and materials to ensure that your new roof is done right. We specialize in shingle, tile, and flat roof installation, repairs, and maintenance. Contact us for an appointment and/or estimate at 727-781-7663.