Unfortunately, roofs don’t last forever. Sooner or later, the elements will cause your roofing materials to fail and could potentially damage the structure of your home.
The kind of materials used on a roof will determine its lifespan, as will the weather conditions it endures. Here in Utah, roofs have to endure cold winters, high winds, and plenty of direct sunlight. If yours needs to be replaced, give us a call! If you aren't sure if it's time for a new roof, we'll come out and do a free inspection.
Tile roofing is one of the longest lasting materials used for roofing, assuming it’s well cared for. The average lifespan of a tile roof is around 50 years. Some tile roofing in Europe has lasted for centuries. As you might imagine, tile roofing can be quite expensive and time consuming to install. Common materials for tile roofing include clay, concrete, and terracotta.
Depending on the exact materials used, metal roofs can last anywhere from 40 to 70 years. This durability makes it a popular choice for homes in more extreme weather climates. However, the cost of materials and specialized labor needed to install a metal roof can be cost prohibitive.
Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing materials because of their relative durability compared to price and ease of installation. However, among all the possible roofing materials, shingles have the shortest lifespan. The average lifespan of a shingle roof is between 10 and 30 years. However, locations with more extreme weather conditions and poor maintenance can shrink the lifespan of a shingle roof to under 10 years.
Most often seen on commercial buildings, TPO roofing is a popular choice for flat roofs because it is water tight and stays sealed even when water doesn't fully leave the roof. The average lifespan of a TPO roof is around 15-20 years. However, maintenance is more important with rubber roofs. Falling branches and other sharp or heavy objects can puncture the rubber material, leading to roof leaks. The rubber should also be periodically cleaned to keep it in the best condition. The cost of TPO roofing is comparable to shingle. TPO roofing is also starting to become more popular for residential applications.
