Roofs are designed to last a while, even in places like Ohio that see all types of weather. But just how long a roof lasts in Ohio depends on the roofing materials used.

Typically, roofs are replaced every 20 years or so, but some can last more than 50 years. A number of factors contribute to a roof’s overall lifespan. For instance, a well-maintained roof has a better chance of reaching its longevity potential.

But before you need to place buckets around your home to catch water dripping from the ceilings, let’s discuss the factors that can affect the longevity of your roof.

In This Article

Lifespan of a Roof in Ohio

A roof’s lifespan is the result of materials, quality, installation, and environmental factors. Let’s take a look at the most common roofing materials and typically how long each lasts.

Asphalt – In general, an asphalt shingle roof lasts about 20 to 25 years but can range from 10 to 40 years depending on the type of asphalt shingles used. As we mentioned, this is contingent upon other factors such as climate, installation, and maintenance. When your roof is installed properly and well-maintained throughout its life, your asphalt shingle roof can protect your home for decades.
Metal – Metal roofs last, on average, about 50 years, even with Ohio’s fluctuating temperatures and seasonal climate changes. Correctly installed and regularly maintained, a metal roof is one of the most durable residential roofing materials.
Tile – Clay tile is a durable, long-lasting roofing material that can last more than 50 years. It requires professional installation since it’s prone to breakage during the installation process.

Factors that Affect How Long a Roof Lasts

It’s not just the type of roofing material that contributes to the longevity of your home’s roof. The quality of those materials, as well as the installation and maintenance of the roof, also affect a roof’s lifespan. Consider the following factors that can affect how long a roof lasts:

Climate—Climate has a lot to do with how long a roof lasts. Tough winters and extreme weather can be brutal on a roof, but choosing the right roofing and properly maintaining it can help keep it in better shape longer.
Quality of Materials – The quality of the roofing materials makes a difference in how long the roof will last. When you choose a roofing professional like Erie Home, you can have confidence that the highest-quality materials are used for your roof. Plus, we offer a limited lifetime transferable warranty (30 years for asphalt roofs and 50 years for metal roofs).
Installation – Installation is an important factor that impacts your roof’s longevity. A roof that is not installed properly can result in damage or missing pieces that could lead to water leaks. Consider professional roofing installation by Erie Home and rest easy knowing your roof is built by those who understand the process from start to finish.
Maintenance – All roofs require some kind of maintenance and upkeep, which is the homeowner’s responsibility. Certain roofing materials like asphalt shingles require more maintenance than other roofing materials like metal. But a well-maintained roof lasts longer than one that’s neglected.
Repairs – It’s important for the life of the roof to take care of necessary repairs immediately. Check over your house and roof after a storm or heavy winds. Fix damaged, cracked, or missing shingles as soon as possible to help prevent further and much larger problems.

Warning Signs For a Roof Replacement

How do you know if your roof has reached its maximum lifespan? Part of knowing how long a roof lasts in Ohio is knowing when your roof may need repair or replacement. Some warning signs to look for include:

Leaks, discoloration, or water damage
Broken or missing shingles
Damaged or missing gutters
Worn or chipped paint
Mold or mildew
Changes in energy bills

If you’re looking for a new roof that can withstand Ohio’s fluctuating weather conditions and harsh winters, contact Erie Home today or call us at 1-800-998-8301 for a free consultation and estimate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should a shingle roof last in Ohio?

A shingle roof in Ohio should last about 20 to 50 years depending on the material used. Asphalt shingle roofs usually last about 20 to 25 years, although they can range from 10 to 40 years. Metal roofs from Erie Home last up to 50 years.

What is the average lifespan of a roof?

The average lifespan of a roof depends on multiple factors such as materials, climate, installation, maintenance, and repairs. A professionally installed asphalt shingle roof lasts around 20 to 25 years on average, ranging from 10 to 40 years overall.

Metal roofs can last up to 50 years, and copper and tile roofs last 50 years or more. The potential longevity can change in cases of extreme weather or neglect.

How often should shingles be replaced?

For traditional asphalt shingles, it’s usually recommended to replace your roof every 20 years or so.

Should you put a new roof over old shingles?

It’s best to remove existing shingles before putting on a new roof. This way, any problems that are under the old roof can be taken care of before the new roof is put on. Addressing underlying issues can help ensure your new roof lasts longer.