Roof materials range from thatch to stone to metal to materials only made possible by modern technology. Each material has its own lifespan, durability and other needful qualities. Read on to find out more about different types of roofs and how long they last.
How Long Do Various Roof Materials Generally Last?
Modern roofs last about 30 years, though a roof can last much longer depending on a number of factors. Here are some roofing materials and how long they generally last.
- Slate
Slate is a natural stone that’s been used as roofing material for hundreds of years. Its one irresistible quality is that it can split into thin sheets. Slate can last as a roofing material for over 150 years, and there are homes that old or even older that still have their original slate roofs. However, installing a slate roof takes special skills on the part of the roofer, and slate is quite expensive.
- Clay Tiles
Clay tile roofs are also long-lasting. A well-maintained clay tile roof can last as long as a century. They’re popular in hot climates because they bounce heat back into the air, and keep the inside of the house cool. However, like slate, clay tiles are expensive to install.
- Concrete tiles
Concrete tiles can be made to mimic genuine clay tiles and share many of their advantages. One advantage concrete roof tiles have over clay tiles is that they cost much less to install.
- Metal Roofs
Though they have many advantages, including superior weather protection and fire resistance, metal roofs have not been as popular because homeowners find them unattractive. However, new metal roofs can be made to be as attractive as any other. They are made of such metals as stainless steel, zinc, copper, aluminum or a material called Galvalume, which is sheets of steel covered with an alloy of zinc and aluminum.
- Asphalt
Asphalt is the most popular type of roofing material because it can be inexpensive to install and can last between 20 and 30 years. There are four types of asphalt shingles. They are traditional architectural, premium and performance.
- Wood
Homeowners may choose wood shingles or shakes because of their beauty. Most wood shingles are made out of fire and pest-resistant wood such as cedar.
What Factors Affect the Durability of Your Roof?
The factors that affect how long your roof lasts are varied. Besides the material the roof is made of, durability is affected by the climate, how well the roof is maintained, the skill of the roofer, the slope of the roof and how well it’s insulated and ventilated. Even the color of the roof affects how long it lasts. Because a dark-colored roof expands and contracts as it absorbs heat, it won’t last as long as a light-colored roof.
Average Cost of Roof Replacement
The cost to replace a roof also varies a great deal depending on the size of the roof and what it’s made of. But the average cost to replace a roof in the United States is around $21,000.
What Are the Warning Signs That Indicate a Roof Replacement Is Needed?
One obvious warning sign that your roof needs to be replaced is a leaking ceiling. Other signs are curling or missing shingles. Asphalt shingles also shed grit as they deteriorate. You’ll also see discolored spots on the ceiling and the appearance of pests.