How often do roofs need to be replaced? Well, this is a common question when it comes to leaking roofs. In fact, many homeowners just don’t know the answer to this question. This can be frustrating, especially when they have to pay thousands of dollars in roof repairs or replacement costs each year. If you want an informative guide that gives an answer without surprises, then look no further because this article is perfect for you!
When Is the Best Time to Replace a Roof?
Roofs are not meant to be replaced frequently especially if you hire a reliable roofing contractor.
Your roof will last as long as it was correctly installed. If your attic has adequate ventilation and is regularly maintained, you can expect it to live as long as possible. This means that your roof should last for 20 to 50 years, depending on which type of roofing material it is.
Take, for example:
Architectural asphalt shingles are the most widely used roofing material in the United States. You should budget for a roof replacement at the 22-year mark, as long as you do everything correctly during installation.
However, you may need one sooner due to storm damage or roof failure. Most homeowners should replace their roofs when they are nearing the end of their lifespan.
Based on what roofing material you have, how often should a roof be replaced?
Unless something goes wrong, you don’t have to replace your roof before it reaches the end of its useful life. The type of roofing material you have will determine how often your roof needs to be replaced.
Let’s look at the lifespans of the five most common roofing materials. This will help you determine how often roofs need to be replaced.
How Long Can an Asphalt Roof Last?
There are three types of asphalt shingles: 3-tab, architectural, and luxury. The manufacturer of asphalt shingles will specify the lifespan for each type.
(Left-to-Right: 3-tab, architectural, and luxury)
The shortest-lived of all three types, 3-tab shingles last for 25 years. Both architectural and luxury shingles last for 30 years.
Asphalt shingles should last between 80-85% of their life expectancy. Your 3-tab shingle roof will last around 20 years, while your architectural shingles will last around 25.
Luxury shingles, on the other hand, are thicker and can last up to 30 years. You can extend that amount even further if you have perfect conditions.
How Long Can a Standing Seam Metal Roof Last?
A standing seam roof system consists of a series of panels that are either sewn together at the seams or mechanically.
This allows panels to contract and expand as the metal cools and heats. A standing seam metal roof is recommended for residential purposes.
Standing seam metal roofs can last for around 30 years, and in the right circumstances, up to 50 years. It is due to the paint finish on the metal panels that it has a durable appearance.
The Kynar 500 paint finish that you choose for your standing seam metal roof comes with an exclusive 30-year warranty. This paint finish protects your panels from the elements and provides protection for the metal. The paint warranty is for 30 years. However, it does not mean that it will disappear.
How Long Can a Composite (Synthetic) Roof Last?
Composite (also called synthetic) shingles are made from recycled materials and are designed to look like a slate roof or cedar shake roof.
Composite roofs can last for around 40-50 years. This is due to their impact rating.
A Class 4 rating is the highest possible rating for roofs. They are resistant to extreme weather conditions like hail and have a high impact rating.
Composite roofs can be walked on without fear of damage, just like cedar shakes or slate. Also, composite roofs are one of the most long-lasting roofing materials available.
How Long Can a Cedar Shake Roof Last?
A cedar shake roof does not have metal or asphalt. It is made primarily of natural wood materials.
As long it is properly installed and maintained, your cedar shake roof will last 30 years. You can get as long as 50 years if you live in an area that has the right climate.
Cedar shake shingles are naturally made and there is no manufacturer warranty if they fail. To protect your investment, you will only have your Tampa roofing contractor‘s workmanship guarantee if there is ever a problem with your cedar roof shake roof.
How Long Can a Slate Roof Last?
A slate roof, like a cedar shake roof, is primarily made from natural materials.
Your slate roof will be your last. As long as it is correctly installed and flashed properly, it will not cause any damage to your home. Although it’s difficult to give an exact lifespan for a slate roof, there is no reason to doubt that it will last at least 75 years.
Even better, we like to think that your grandkids won’t have to worry about it. A slate roof is an excellent choice if you are looking for a durable material that will last a lifetime.
The slate materials are not covered by a manufacturer warranty if they fail to perform as expected.
Now that you have an idea of how often roofs need to be replaced, it’s time to look for a professional roofing company to do the job.
A professional roofing company in Tampa can help you decide what your next step should be, based on their experience and expertise.
Do You Need Roof Replacement in Tampa FL?
So, if you’re in the market for Tampa roof repair and replacement services and looking to learn more about a team of roofing professionals whom you can trust, give All Star Roofing a call. We have the experience to meet your needs and the products required to complete your roof replacement project.
You can choose from a range of services that will suit your needs:
- Roof Installation
- Re-roofing
- Shingle Roofs
- Tile Roofing
- Flat Roofing
- Metal Roofing
- Emergency Roof Repair
- Hurricane Help
We pride ourselves on the professionalism, quality, and value that we provide to our customers. Our team of skilled Tampa roofing contractors will go above and beyond to make sure that you are fully satisfied with the quality of our work. Contact us now for a FREE roofing estimate!