Concrete, clay and slate tiles have an average lifespan of 100 years or more. They are undoubtedly the materials that last the longest, but they are also, without exception, some of the most expensive. Slate roofs are often referred to as a “forever roof” because they can last seemingly forever. The average lifespan of a shingle roof is 100 years or more if properly maintained.
The average lifespan of metal roofs is 30 to 50 years. With professional care and regular maintenance, the average lifespan of a wooden tile roof is 30 to 35 years. The average life of a high-quality asphalt shingle roof is 20 to 30 years. In addition to being weather- and fire-resistant, clay tile roofs are easy to customize and offer homeowners the versatility that other types of roofs simply don't offer.
They are by far the most common type of roofing material and are found in more than 80% of American homes, according to Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association. However, because copper is so expensive, it is usually reserved for decorative pieces of ceilings rather than full roofs. Have your roof inspected regularly by a local roofing contractor, who can fix minor problems before they become serious problems. When installed by a quality roofing company, many types of roofs last more than 15 years; some can hold up well for 50 years or more, except for a severe storm or the fall of a large tree.
It's imperative that you contact a professional roofing contractor and not a general home improvement contractor if you want your roof to be properly installed and last as long (or longer) as it should. However, it's helpful to know how long you can expect your roof to last so you can plan ahead and prepare a maintenance and repair schedule. For example, the average lifespan of roofs in Florida can differ greatly from the average lifespan of roofs in Nebraska, even if both roofs are made of the same materials. Clay, concrete or cement shingles are a popular choice for homeowners who want a durable roof option.
Even if you don't see a leak, you should have a roofing professional perform an inspection on your roof at least once a year. While this type of roofing is cost-effective, the downside is that it doesn't last as long as some of the other roofing options, you can expect your asphalt roof to last 15 to 30 years before needing major repairs or replacements. A clay tile roof will last an average of 50 years, while metal roofs will last 20 to 70 years, depending on quality. Regular maintenance of a wooden ceiling is required to achieve the longest possible lifespan, including cleaning and staining.
It's especially important to keep this in mind if you're planning to replace your roof soon or if you're looking for a new home and want to make sure the roof is in good condition.
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