Practical, low-cost asphalt shingles are the most popular type of roofing material used across the United States. If you currently have or are considering a shingle roof, you may ask, “How long does a shingle roof last?”
Many factors, including installation quality, structural issues, and your local weather conditions, may influence your shingle roof’s lifespan. Keep reading to learn more about the factors that determine shingle roof longevity.
At Polaris Roofing Systems, we can help you determine whether it’s time to repair or replace your asphalt shingle roof. Contact us at (928) 699-4840 for a free project estimate.
Shingle Roof Lifespan: Manufacturer Warranty vs. Realistic Roof Longevity
Other types of roofs, like metal, clay tile, or slate, may last considerably longer than asphalt shingle roofs. However, affordability and ease of installation make asphalt shingles the most cost-effective choice for many homeowners.
Asphalt shingle manufacturers usually provide a 25-year warranty on 3-tab shingles and a 30-year warranty on dimensional shingles. However, a typical shingle roof will only endure throughout 80% or 85% of this time-span—i.e., a 20-year-old 3-tab shingle roof or a 25-year-old dimensional shingle roof is already nearing the end of its life.
These estimates are true for properly installed asphalt shingle roofs that receive regular maintenance. Low-quality or poorly maintained shingle roofs may fail a lot sooner—even within 10 years of installation.
Factors That Influence a Shingle Roof’s Durability
So what determines how long a shingle roof lasts? Whether your asphalt shingle roof lasts for 25 years or starts giving you trouble after 10 years, the following factors can influence your roof’s lifespan.
1. Installation Quality
Optimal installation techniques can increase your roof’s lifespan and reduce roof issues. Hiring an experienced, reputable local roofing contractor ensures that you’ll get a quality roof that will serve you well for many years with minimal repairs.
2. Attic Ventilation
Many people overlook the importance of proper attic ventilation. Heat trapped in a poorly ventilated attic can damage your asphalt shingles, shorten your roof’s lifespan, and void any manufacturer warranties. You can improve attic ventilation by inserting roof vents or adding fans to improve airflow.
3. Local Weather
Every roof suffers wear and tear with time. And here in Flagstaff, AZ we get a lot of hail, snow, heat, and high winds, which can reduce your roof’s longevity. Extreme weather events severe storms can also damage your roof.
4. Direct Sunlight
The direction in which your roof faces determines how much direct sunlight it gets, and this has a major impact on the roof’s lifespan. UV radiation alters the components of asphalt shingles and makes them warp and crack.
Roofs that face east and west get the same amount of sunlight on each side during the day, so the UV-induced wear spreads evenly. South-facing roofs, however, get most of the day’s direct sunlight on the south side, which is likelier to deteriorate faster than other roof areas.
5. Regular Maintenance
An annual roof inspection can help you locate and address roof problems before they become major, costly issues. Your roofing contractor can also remove debris, vegetation, and other materials that compromise your roof’s integrity.
Is It Time to Replace Your Asphalt Shingle Roof?
Replacing your roof is a major investment, so many homeowners try to get by with localized repairs. However, at some point, roof repairs are no longer effective, and roof replacement is the most financially sound decision.
You may wish to consider roof replacement if:
- Your roof has nearly outlived its lifespan
- Your roof shows sagging, warping, or other significant structural problems
- Roof repairs can’t keep up with leaks or other roof issues
- Many of your roof shingles appear cracked, buckled, or damaged
- You find a lot of shingle granules in your downspouts or gutters
A roof inspection by our team at Authentic Restoration can help you decide whether your asphalt shingle roof needs repair or replacement.
Quality Shingle Roofing Services
The answer to “how long does a shingle roof last?” depends in large measure on choosing a trusted, top-performing local roofing contractor. At Polaris Roofing Systems, we guarantee superior craftsmanship in all installation, repair, and replacement roofing projects.
Call us today to schedule a professional roof inspection and estimate (928) 699-4840.
