When it comes to roofing, there are many factors that can affect the longevity of your roof. From the type of material used to the climate and region where your home is located, there are a variety of elements that can determine how long your roof will last. Wood shingle roofs can last up to 30 years, but individual shingles may need to be replaced before that. Clay tile roofs have an average lifespan of 50 years, while metal roofs can last anywhere from 20 to 70 years, depending on the quality.
Slate roofs can last up to a century, and solar shingles are expected to last about 30 years. Asphalt shingles, which are probably the most common type of roof out there, are expected to last 20 to 30 years in Virginia. Wood shingles are a little more durable than asphalt shingles and can last up to 30-40 years. However, it's important to note that a hailstorm, snowstorm, tornado, or other catastrophic weather event can shorten the life of your roof and you may need a complete replacement or roof repair.
When looking for a new roof, you might hear roofing companies or contractors describe certain types of roofs as “30-year roofs” or even “50-year roofs” or other time periods. It's important to remember that these estimates are just that - estimates. The actual lifespan of your roof depends on a variety of factors, such as the climate and region where your home is located, the type of roofing system you have, and if you experience any major natural disasters. If your roof is only a few years old and you notice any issues, you may need to have it reviewed by professionals as it could become a bigger problem, especially if you're thinking of selling your house in the near future.
You'll also want to consider other factors before replacing the roof or buying a property: the age of the roof, the number of layers of shingles there are, and whether the roof is properly reinforced and ventilated. Copper and zinc roofs can last more than five decades and can fully function for 100 years or more, making them worth investing in if they fit your home and style preferences. If you're comfortable with DIY projects, there are a variety of guides online for doing roof repairs. If your roof is more than 20 to 25 years old, or if you've recently experienced a major disaster, you should probably consider replacing your roof or at least having it inspected to get an idea of its current condition and when it's likely you'll need to repair or replace it completely.
There is also the possibility that a large tree will fall on the roof or that other damage will occur due to debris or accidents, which will naturally shorten the life of the roof, regardless of the materials used. It is essential that the platform is clean and dry before placing the rest of the layers, and that the old tiles or roofing material are completely removed before applying the new layers. At best, your home and property will suffer water damage if the roof leaks; at worst, the entire roof collapses and destroys your belongings and can even endanger you and your family.
