If it’s time for a new roof, you might be considering an asphalt shingle roof. These are among the most popular roofs, and for good reason: They’re durable, affordable, and available in various styles and colors.
However, you might be asking yourself, how long does an asphalt shingle roof last? On average, it’s typically around 25 years, but a lot of factors will influence your roof’s longevity.
We’ll delve into this by reviewing these factors, as well as which signs might indicate the roof is near the end of its life, and tips on extending the lifespan of your asphalt shingle roof.
In this article:
- Factors Influencing the Lifespan of an Asphalt Shingle Roof
- Signs an Asphalt Shingle Roof Needs Replacement
- Extending the Life of Your Asphalt Shingle Roof
- Final Thoughts
- Frequently Asked Questions
Factors Influencing the Lifespan of an Asphalt Shingle Roof
Since the lifespan of this type of roof has quite a wide range, it’s important to understand the factors that might make a roof more or less likely to last up to its maximum potential.
For starters, the climate plays a significant role. If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, such as hurricanes, heavy rainfall, extreme temperatures, and heavy snow, wear and tear on the roof will be accelerated. This can reduce the lifespan of the roof.
The quality of both the materials and the installation can impact your roof’s longevity. Installation mistakes, such as improper fastening and inadequate underlayment or flashing, can lead to various issues that reduce the roof’s lifespan.
Hiring a professional roofing company like Erie Home can help you maximize your roof’s lifespan. We can also help you choose the best quality shingles possible for your project, making it more likely they’ll be able to stand up to the elements.
Besides a professional installation, all our asphalt shingle roofs also come with a transferable limited lifetime warranty, so you can rest assured that your investment is protected throughout the lifetime of your roof.
Roof ventilation is another factor, particularly in areas with a hot climate. Good ventilation prevents excessive heat buildup, which can warp shingles and reduce their longevity.
Finally, regular maintenance and inspections can help you address minor problems before they become something major. Debris buildup, mold, and damaged shingles can all be treated early, minimizing their impact on the lifespan of the roof.
Signs an Asphalt Shingle Roof Needs Replacement
You may wonder how you’ll know when your roof is nearing the end of its life. Here are a few signs to watch out for:
- Visible damage. If you can see missing shingles, cracks, and curling edges, particularly if it’s happening on different areas of the roof, this is a clear sign it might be time for a replacement. If you see it only in one small section, there may be water damage or some other issue that can be addressed and repaired to save the rest of the roof.
- Roof grit in the gutters. Over time, the elements will begin to wear down the asphalt shingles, and you’ll start to see grit from the roof in the gutters. If you clean your gutters and notice a lot of sand-like grit, it is a sign the roof might be nearing the end of its lifespan.
- Leaks or water damage. While a storm can damage just a few shingles and lead to water leaks or damage, water stains on the ceilings or walls clearly indicate something needs to be fixed immediately.
- Many years have passed. Over time, the roof will need more frequent inspections to ensure it’s still in good shape. If you’re past the 15- or 20-year mark, be alert for signs that the roof needs to be replaced.
Extending the Life of Your Asphalt Shingle Roof
The good news is that while you can’t control the weather or change who installed your roof in the first place, there are a few things you can do to maximize the roof’s lifespan.
One thing is to regularly clean debris from the roof. Check for damaged shingles, and keep the gutters clean so they can drain properly and prevent ponding and ice dams. By keeping on top of routine maintenance, you can often prevent larger issues.
Have repairs done promptly. Your periodic inspections might reveal issues such as curling shingles, spots where mold accumulates, or missing shingles. Have these issues addressed right away by calling trusted roofing professionals like Erie Home.
Final Thoughts
If you feel your roof needs to be replaced, all is not lost. Call us today at 1-800-998-8301 or contact us online to book a free inspection. Whether you choose a new asphalt shingle or metal roof, we’ll work with you to ensure you get the roof you need. Every roof we install comes with a transferable limited lifetime warranty, so it’s easy to see why over 400,000 customers nationwide have trusted us with their homes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a 30-year roof last 30 years?
While many asphalt shingle roofs are rated to last 20-25 years, there’s no guarantee it will last that long. Good maintenance and prompt repairs when needed will boost your chances that the roof will last that time. At Erie Home, we offer a 30-year limited lifetime warranty that protects against manufacturing or installation defects that can lead to water infiltration.
What time of year is best to replace a roof?
A roof replacement can be done at any time of year, and if you’re seeing signs that your roof needs replacement, it’s best to get it done as soon as possible. At Erie Home, we install roofs in every season, with the installation itself often taking less than a day.
What if I want a roof with a longer lifespan?
Metal roofs last around 50 years, making them a longer-lasting product than asphalt shingle roofs. While they involve a larger investment, you’ll also find they add more value to your home, and we can help with financing. Your Erie Home professional can help you decide which option might be right for you.