Asphalt shingles have been the most commonly used roofing material in the United States for decades, and for good reason. They are affordable, durable, and come with warranties of up to 25 years. But what does it mean when a roof is labeled as a “20-year roof”?In general, roofs can last anywhere from 20 to 100 years, depending on the materials used, the quality of the workmanship, and the climate. Asphalt shingles are typically rated to last between 15 and 30 years, but this may vary depending on the weather conditions in your area.
For example, asphalt shingles won't last as long in Arizona due to drastic changes in temperature that can cause them to crack. When your asphalt shingles start to be 15 to 20 years old, or if your roof has been damaged by a storm, you should consider inspecting the roof to determine if it needs to be replaced. If you're looking for a new roof, you might also hear roofing companies or contractors describe certain types of roofs as “30-year roofs” or even “50-year roofs” or other time periods. A lot of problems can arise if you don't replace your roof when needed, or even if you don't keep up with regular roof maintenance.
A hailstorm, snowstorm, tornado, or other catastrophic weather event can also shorten the life of your roof and you may need a complete replacement or roof repair. Without a good roof, everything in that house is susceptible to rain, snow, intense wind, intense heat, UV rays and much more. Gaps in the roof (the absence of shingles in the areas around gutters and chimneys) or the absence of shingles in general can also be a sign that you need to replace the roof or do some serious repair work. Most home insurance policies will not write a new policy for a roof that's more than twenty years old. Two of the most common causes of premature roof failure are improper installation and inadequate attic ventilation.However, not all signs are visible to the untrained eye, so if you suspect damage, call a roofing professional to have the roof inspected.
Keep in mind that if you have an asphalt shingle roof in places that get a lot of bright sunlight, such as Southern California, Texas, Nevada, New Mexico, or Arizona, you'll want to keep in mind that your roof may not last as long as it would in other areas. When selecting a new roof for your home, it is important to choose one that suits the climate of your region and the slope of the roof. There are a variety of colors and designs available to fit any home style. Asphalt roofs are also relatively easy to install for dedicated DIYers; however it is always best to have a professional team install your new roof. In addition to asphalt shingles there are other types of roofs available such as metal roofs and single-layer membrane roofs with hot-welded air joints that can last almost twice as long as EPDM rubber. However these types of roofs are more expensive. No matter what type of roof you choose for your home it is important to keep up with regular inspections and maintenance.
This will help ensure that your roof lasts as long as possible and keeps your home safe from the elements.
