Are you currently looking for new roofing for your home and wondering how long the 30-year shingles really last? If you have, you’re not alone. Generally, when a package of shingles lists that they last 30 years, it’s an indication of the maximum lifespan.
Understanding Your Roof’s Useful Life
When manufacturers talk about 30-year shingles, they are talking about shingles that are designed to last between 17 and 23 years, depending on whether or not you have your roof regularly inspected and repaired and depending on the weather conditions in your area. The materials used in the installation of your roof can also impact its lifespan.
The Installation Materials
All roofs have metal components, including the roofing nails and flashing. Even if your shingles are designed to last 30 years, the mental components will not last 30 years. This means that you’ll have to have your roof regularly inspected for damage and deterioration of the roofing nails and flashing. If these things rust or corroded and fall from your roof, your shingles could become loose, and your roof could start to leak long before you’d expect it.
Severe Weather
If your area is prone to severe storms and high winds, your roof may not last its entire useful life. High winds can tear shingles from your roof and driving rain and large hail can cause damage to your roof. Therefore, it’s important to always have your roof inspected after every major storm, even windstorms.
Sun Damage
Even if you buy a roof that is UV resistant, it will still deteriorate over time. For a shingle roof, this means that the asphalt binder will dry out. This results in lost granules and fading of the roof’s color. If you notice granules in your gutters and part of your roof fading more quickly that other parts, it’s time to call a roofing contractor to have your roof inspected.
What Happens if You Don’t Have Your Roof Regularly Inspected and Repaired?
If you believe that your roof, once installed, will last 30 years regardless of what you do to it, you may be in for a shock. This is because roofs that are not maintained may only last between 12 and 15 years, which is half of a 30-year roof’s expected lifespan.
Carsa Construction & Roofing also does home remodeling.
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