Asphalt Shingles Installation. Roofer Contractor Installing Asphalt Shingles on House Roofing Construction
Whenever someone mentions “roof”, the image that comes to mind is likely to be a shingle roof. It’s the most common type of roof, but do you really know what’s going on above your head?
Do you know what the average shingle roof lifespan is, or what different materials you have to choose from in shingle style? This article is for you if you answered no to these questions.
Below, we list some basic DIY maintenance checks to keep your roof in good shape and provide answers to some questions regarding shingle roof lifespans.
We know you take pride in keeping your home in tip-top shape, and this includes your roof. So grab yourself a coffee, and settle down to read.
The Average Lifespan of a Shingle Roof
Even though other factors such as weather and general wear and tear affect a roof’s lifespan, the most important factor is the type of material used. The average lifespan of a roof is as follows:
- Asphalt Shingles: 15-30 years
- Architectural Asphalt shingles: 24-30 years
- Metal: 30-45 years
- Concrete Tiles: 35-50 years
- Modified/Built-up bitumen: 10-16 years
- Rubber/EPDM: 10-16 years
How long does a shingle roof last? Roofs don’t last forever, so it is important for homeowners to be able to determine the age of their roof. This can be a key factor in knowing if it is time for a shingle roof replacement.
Shingle Options
Shingles fall under a large umbrella. In addition to the gray asphalt shingles you pictured at the beginning of this article, there are also several other options.
Asphalt
The most popular option for homeowners is the asphalt shingle, which started to gain popularity in the 1920s. Asphalt is a solid and enduring material, which is why it is still around 100 years later.
Organic Shingles
Organic shingles are made from felt-like materials saturated with asphalt and covered in stone-like granules. They have more weight and wind resistance than the fiberglass options.
Fiberglass/Glass Fiber
Fiberglass or glass fiber is a reinforced mat in the shape of a shingle, coated with a mineral filler asphalt to make it waterproof. They are a less expensive option, as they are easier to produce.
The Homeowners Guide to Roof Maintenance
You can extend the lifespan of your shingle roof by performing regular maintenance and keeping a close eye on it. So it is always useful to have a homeowners checklist for maintenance projects to stay on top of.
Consider things like the color of your roof and the orientation when trying to extend its lifespan. A roof with a darker color absorbs more heat, which can shorten its lifespan, and the angle of the roof slope will determine how much heat or sunlight the shingles will receive.
A poorly installed roof or one made of low-quality materials is going to give you ongoing problems. Make sure your contractor uses good quality products and is qualified and experienced to do the job.
A harsh climate can also shorten the life of your roof. This may be beyond your control, but you can manage the surrounding environment. For example, make sure trees near the roof are trimmed regularly so they do not rub on or fall on the roof.
The gutters should be kept clean and damaged or lost shingles should be replaced as soon as possible. In addition, keeping an eye out for mold and algae growth is also an important part of roof maintenance.
Shingle Roof Lifespan
The shingle roof lifespan can be extended if you keep up regular maintenance, and know what to look for when it comes to roof problems.
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