Asphalt shingles are a popular roofing choice for many homeowners. But how long do asphalt shingles last? What is the average lifespan of these materials, and what other considerations should be considered when installing or replacing them?
We’ll explore this topic in depth, including their environmental impact and proper maintenance and repair techniques that can help extend the life of your roof. If you’re wondering how long asphalt shingles last, read on to learn more.
Asphalt Shingles: Overview
Asphalt shingles are a roof covering made from asphalt-saturated felt or fiberglass matting, topped with granules that protect against the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Asphalt shingles come in two main types: organic and fiberglass. Let’s discuss each of these to understand more.
Organic Shingles
Organic shingles are heavier than their fiberglass counterparts, making them more durable and expensive to install. They offer good fire resistance and can last up to 25 years if properly maintained. However, they tend to absorb moisture which can lead to premature deterioration over time.
Fiberglass Shingles
Fiberglass shingles are much more lightweight than organic varieties, resulting in less costly and simpler installation. They offer excellent fire and superior wind resistance due to their flexibility compared to organic options. Proper maintenance can last up to 30 years before they require replacement or repair work.
How Long Do Asphalt Shingles Last?
On average, asphalt shingles can last anywhere from 15 to 30 years. The duration may diverge significantly based on a few elements. These are;
- The type of shingle you choose
- The quality of the installation and repair work
- Location and weather conditions
- The slope of the metal roof and the amount of ventilation
- Maintenance and care are given to your slate roof
- Environmental Impact
Awareness of the various elements that impact the longevity of asphalt shingles and how they affect their durability is essential to obtaining maximum value from your metal/wood shingle roof.
Average Lifespan by Type Of Shingle
Asphalt 3-tab clay tile roofs generally have a shorter life expectancy than architectural laminated or designer-style products. This is due to their single-layer construction, which makes them more susceptible to weather damage over time.
On average, 3-tab clay tile roofs will last between 12-15 years, while architectural laminated or designer styles may last up to 20+ years depending on climate conditions and other variables mentioned above. On the other hand, wood shingles last 30-40 years when properly maintained.
Metal roofs typically last up to 25 years, while architectural shingles have an average life expectancy of around 30 years.
To extend the life expectancy of your roof shingles, it is essential to perform regular maintenance checks throughout their lifetime. This includes inspecting for signs of wear and tear, such as:
- Missing granules or cracking/curling edges
- Cleaning debris from gutters
- Trimming back trees near your home
- Checking flashings around chimneys and skylights,
- Sealing any exposed nail heads,
- Replacing broken tiles
Additionally, having an experienced roofing contractor inspect your roof every 5-7 years can help identify potential issues before they become costly repairs.
Knowing the average lifespan of asphalt shingles is integral to roof maintenance and repair planning.
Maintenance and Repair Considerations
Asphalt shingles require regular maintenance to ensure they last as long as possible. Therefore, you must routinely check your roof for any signs of harm or deterioration, such as broken, curled, or missing shingles.
If you notice any of these issues, contact Roof Troopers; we have a team of experienced roofers who can meet your needs. We recommend having your roof inspected every 5-7 years by a roofing contractor for thorough maintenance and repair.
Twice annually, it is wise to clear your gutters and cut back any vegetation encroaching near your abode to forestall debris from amassing on the asphalt roofing materials and inducing additional harm.
Signs That You Need To Replace Your Roof
Here are several signs you might need roof replacement:
- If more than 25% of the shingles are damaged
- Suppose there is visible water damage inside the home
- There are large amounts of moss or algae growth on the surface
- In case granules from asphalt shingles have been washing off into gutters and downspouts during rainstorms.
Preserving and fixing asphalt shingles is essential to ensure their extended life.
Environmental Impact of Asphalt Shingles
But what about the environmental impact of asphalt shingles? Asphalt shingle recycling is becoming increasingly common in many parts of the world. Old slate roofs can be recycled into new products such as paving materials or roof coverings.
This process reduces landfill waste while also reducing the need for raw materials used in manufacturing new products from scratch. Additionally, some companies offer services that allow homeowners to have their old asphalt shingle roofs removed and reused on other homes or buildings instead of being disposed of in landfills.
Despite their efficacy and sustainability, one should contemplate the ecological repercussions of architectural shingles when selecting a roofing material. Hence, let us reflect upon this discourse to determine the fundamental realizations that can be drawn from it.
FAQs
Here are some common questions asked about the lifespan of asphalt shingles:
What is the life expectancy of asphalt shingles?
The longevity of asphalt shingles depends on various elements, like the grade and kind utilized, the weather conditions in which they are placed, and how well-kept they are. Generally, an asphalt roof can last 15 to 30 years with proper maintenance.
How often should asphalt shingles be replaced?
Asphalt shingles’ longevity can differ based on the climate and weather in your locale. Typically they must be replaced after 15-25 years. The lifespan of asphalt shingles can vary significantly due to extreme temperatures, heavy rainfall or snowfall, hail storms, and other environmental factors.
Regular inspections by a roofer like Roof Troopers are recommended to ensure any damage is identified and repaired before it becomes an issue.
Conclusion
Asphalt shingles are a popular roofing choice for many homeowners and can last anywhere from 15 to 30 years with proper maintenance. It is ideal to note that factors might affect this duration. To ensure you attain maximum value from your roof, it’s essential to perform regular inspections throughout its lifespan.
If you need help identifying potential issues or performing necessary repairs or maintenance work for your home’s roof, contact Roof Troopers today! Our team of experienced professionals is ready to meet all your needs so you get the most out of your asphalt shingle investment.
