How Long Do Roofs Typically Last in Michigan?

If you live in Michigan, you’re probably well aware of the storms that may develop, and that these storms may damage your roof.

As a homeowner, you may wonder how all that snow, rain, cold, and wind may affect your roof. Might it shorten the expected lifespan? How long do roofs typically last in Michigan? And when will you need to think about a roof replacement?

In general, an asphalt shingle roof lasts between 10 and 40 years in Michigan, depending on the type and quality of the shingles. On the other hand, metal roofs last up to 50 years in Michigan, while clay and concrete tile roofs last 50 years or more, and slate tiles can last from 50 to 150 years.

Keep reading to learn how Michigan’s climate can impact the lifespan of your roof.

Extreme Michigan Weather

Michigan experiences its fair share of extreme weather. In July 2023, storms hit lower Michigan with rain and overly large hail. In Davison, tennis ball- and baseball-sized hail damaged roofs, sidings, and vehicles. Elsewhere in the state, severe winds and downed tree limbs caused many homeowners to worry about their roofs.

On average, 15 tornadoes occur in the state of Michigan per year, with wind speeds potentially reaching over 200 miles per hour. Most asphalt shingle roofs are warranted to 120 to 130 miles per hour, at most, while metal roofs can typically withstand winds up to 120 miles per hour.

Is Michigan Weather Hard on Roofs?

In 2023, the experts at MoneyInc compiled a list of the 20 cities in the country with the worst weather. Coming in at number seven was Marquette, Michigan, which is known for being “one of the snowiest places in the U.S.” with an average snowfall of around 157 inches per year.

Michigan roofs typically go through a lot during their lifespan. The state is known for its weather extremes, going from hot, humid summers to freezing cold winters. The winter season tends to be the most damaging, subjecting roofs to heavy snow and ice dams.

The spring can bring heavy precipitation, while the summer exposes roofs to persistent and potentially damaging ultraviolet rays. Most areas of the state have many trees, which can deposit debris and fallen branches on the roof during a bad storm.

How long your roof will last in Michigan depends on what part of the state you live in. Though conditions can vary from year to year, areas near the Great Lakes are more likely to see storms with gusty winds, along with heavy rain and snow.

A lot will also depend on the type of roof you have, and on how it was installed. For instance, if you don’t have proper insulation and ventilation in your attic, you’ll be more at risk of ice dams and icicles, which can lead to premature wear and tear.

Regular maintenance—such as cleaning your gutters annually and keeping your roof clear of branches, leaves, and other debris—can help to extend the longevity of your roof.

On average, most homeowners in Michigan can expect their roofs to last between 20 and 30 years, but the following factors should be considered.

How Roofing Materials Affect a Roof’s Lifespan in Michigan

The biggest factor affecting the longevity of your roof is the material. Below are some general lifespan averages for different types of roofs. We’ve also included how each stands up to severe winds and heavy snows, such as those you may experience in Michigan.

ASPHALT Shingles

Asphalt shingles are available in various types, each with its own lifespan and durability. The most economical option is 3-tab asphalt shingles, which typically last 10 to 20 years. However, they are not a good option in bad weather areas, as they are usually warranted for wind speeds of only up to 60 miles per hour.

Architectural shingles are heavier and consist of more layers, providing an average lifespan of 20 to 30 years. They can withstand winds of up to 120 to 130 miles per hour, but extreme weather can still wear them down prematurely, depending on how many storms you get in your area.

Wood shingles, made from natural wood material, typically last 25 to 30 years. They are naturally resistant to water and UV rays but can be damaged by heat, cold, snow, and ice.

Premium shingles, also known as luxury shingles, are more expensive, but they offer a lifespan of 25 to 40 years. They do a good job of withstanding heavy rains, high winds, and snowstorms—better than any other type of shingle—but a bad hailstorm can cause significant damage.

Metal Roofs

Metal roofs also come in various options with different lifespans. In general, you can expect a metal roof to last up to 50 years, or sometimes longer.

Metal roofs also stand up well to extreme weather, and are more resistant to wind, rain, hail, and snow than asphalt shingle roofs. The downside is that they can be prone to rust in humid climates, so be sure your contractor applies a rust-proof coating. Poor installation, too—as with any roof—can lead to leaks down the road.

Tile Roofs

Tile roofs, such as clay tiles, are known for their durability in extreme weather conditions. They can last for 50 years or more.

Clay tile roofs are a good choice in extreme weather areas, as they can withstand water, heat, UV rays, wind, and hail. However, professional installation is critical, as any cracks can lead to premature degradation.

Concrete tiles, made of cement, also offer a long lifespan of 50 or more years. They are highly resistant to damage from high winds—up to 180 miles per hour—and cold temperatures.

However, they can absorb more water than clay tiles, which can add strain to the roof’s structure after heavy rains. Waterproof coatings can help.

Slate tiles are the most long-lasting roofing material, providing 50 to 150 years of life. They are highly resistant to extreme weather, fire, fungi, and mold. Unfortunately, they can be easily damaged during installation, so always hire a professional.

Wood Shakes

Wood shakes, which are thicker than wood shingles, offer increased durability and can last 40 to 50 years. They are more resistant to wind damage than standard asphalt shingles but tend to soak up water from rain, hail, and snow.

Waterproof coatings can help. However, extended exposure to the sun can cause the shakes to curl and cup.

Rubber Roofs

Made from recycled rubber tires and plastics, rubber roofs are cost-effective and durable, but they may have a flat and dull appearance. A rubber roof can last 40 to 50 years, as it can withstand high winds and hail and is not vulnerable to UV damage.

It does absorb heat though, so adequate shade and ventilation is important, while falling debris can also cause tears and cracks that require repairs.

Contact Us for a Free Estimate

Erie Home offers asphalt shingle and metal roofing options in a wide variety of styles and colors, so you’re sure to find what works best for your home. Contact us today for a free estimate and more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you replace your roof in Michigan?

On average, roofs last about 20 to 30 years in Michigan, but this depends a lot on the materials used and the weather in your area. Contact Erie Home for a free estimate.

How long should a shingle roof last in Michigan?

In Michigan, asphalt shingle roofs can last 10 to 40 years, depending on the type and quality of the shingles. Traditional 3-tab asphalt shingles last 10 to 20 years, and architectural shingles can last 20 to 30 years. Premium asphalt shingles have a longer lifespan, from 25 to 40 years.

Wood shingles are an alternative to asphalt shingles. They tend to last 25 to 30 years.

What is the recommended roof pitch in Michigan?

The roof pitch or slope is a measurement of how steep the roof is. The numbers tell you how many inches the roof rises for every 12 inches in depth. A steeper roof pitch helps your roof shed water and snow, limiting damage from these elements.

In general, anything under a 3:12 is considered a low-pitch roof, while anything above 6:12 is considered steep. In Michigan, the minimum pitch for a shingle roof is 2:12, though a pitch of at least 4:12 is recommended. A metal roof should have a minimum roof pitch of at least 3.5:12.

What is the best roof for extreme weather?

Slate roofs are renowned for their ability to withstand harsh weather, but they can be heavy, and they’re also very costly. Other good options include clay tiles, metal roofs, and premium shingles.

What is the best time of year to replace a roof?

Fall is typically considered the best season for roof replacements. The weather is more consistent, there are fewer storms, the temperatures are comfortable, and there are still enough daylight hours, allowing for faster installations.