Asphalt shingles are the most popular type of roof in America because they are inexpensive, easy to install, and last a long time. But how long do asphalt shingles last? Depending on the environment and quality of the shingle, asphalt shingles can last anywhere from 15 to 50 years. The quality of installation, maintenance, and the climate of the area where the shingles are installed can all play a role in determining the lifespan of asphalt shingles. Even though there is no clear answer to the question of how long asphalt shingles last, knowing the things that affect how long they last can help homeowners make a smart choice when choosing a roofing material.
What are asphalt shingles?
Asphalt shingles are a popular choice for residential and commercial roofing. In addition to being one of the most commonly used shingle types, asphalt shingles are also one of the most versatile roofing materials, making them a good choice for a variety of different roofing applications. Asphalt shingles are typically made of three layers, including the top layer designating the visible face (which is typically textured), an underlying layer of fiber, and a base layer of asphalt or synthetic rubber. Generally, asphalt shingles are available in three different colors: black, blue, and gray. Asphalt shingles are easier to install than many other types of shingles, making them a good choice for DIY homeowners. Asphalt shingles also have a relatively low cost and typically come with a long manufacturer’s warranty.
Factors that affect the lifespan of asphalt shingles
Each roofing material will have a different lifespan, depending on the quality of the shingle, the amount of maintenance the shingles receive, and the climate of the area where the shingles are installed. – Installation quality: The installation quality has a significant impact on the lifespan of shingles. If the shingles are not installed properly, they could become prematurely worn. Once the shingles are worn, they can be very difficult, if not impossible, to repair. Poor installation can also create leaks and other problems that will drive up maintenance costs. On the other hand, quality shingle installation can add many years to the lifespan of the shingles.
Maintenance: To maintain the lifespan of shingles, homeowners should be sure to keep an eye out for signs of wear and tear, such as curling, fading, and missing granules. When wear and tear are found, it’s important to fix the shingles as soon as possible, because the problem is likely to get worse over time, which will raise maintenance costs and force you to replace the shingles sooner than you would like. – Climate: Roofing materials are rated for a specific climate. For example, shingles rated for a climate that receives less than 10 inches of rain each year will not last as long as shingles rated for a climate that receives more than 10 inches of rain each year.
Pests: Animals can also damage roofing materials and this type of destruction can happen quickly, and without warning. Keeping tree branches well away from your home can certainly help with pests. If you’d like to learn more about squirrels and the damage they can cause, check out our blog post about it here.
Choosing the right asphalt shingles
How long asphalt shingles last depends a lot on what kind of shingles homeowners choose to put on their roofs. The best choice in shingles will be the ones that best match the needs of a given roof and the environment where the shingles will be installed. For example, homeowners in areas with high winds may want to choose shingles with a higher wind rating. Most of the time, homeowners should choose asphalt shingles made for their roof and climate. While some shingles may be rated for a wider range of environments, it is best to choose the shingles that most closely meet the needs of the roof and the climate where the shingles will be installed.
Conclusion
Asphalt shingles can last anywhere from 15 to 50 years, depending on the quality of the shingle, the amount of maintenance the shingles receive, and the climate of the area where they are installed. The best way to determine how long asphalt shingles last is to select shingles that best match the needs of a given roof and the environment where the shingles will be installed. If you have a roof with a questionable lifespan, you can always hire a professional roofing company to inspect it for you. Some companies will even offer free inspections.