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How Long Should Your Roof Last | Roofing Boise

ByRobbie Bour

Your home’s roof is essential to its structural integrity. When you have a roof put onto your home, the type of material makes a big difference in how long the roof will last. Keep these factors in mind as you plan a new roof for your house.

Roofing Materials and Roof Longevity

Standard asphalt shingles have a typical lifespan of about 20 years. If you choose architectural or 30 year shingles, those should last for 25 to 30 years with proper roof maintenance. A metal roof lasts for about 50 years with good care. Slate roofs could last for 100 years or more with routine maintenance.

What If Your Roof Needs Replacement Sooner Than Expected?

If your roof has not lasted as long as you thought it would, there could be many reasons why. Unusual weather patterns such as a severe thunderstorm, hailstorm or wind storm could have damaged the shingles or their fasteners. Poor attic ventilation causes heat to build up on the underside of the roof. Walking on the roof can wear away the granules of asphalt shingles. Not cleaning the gutters or allowing tree limbs to scrape against the roof can lead to leaks and premature roof failure.

Manufacturer’s Guarantees and Roofing Companies

Some shingle manufacturers offer a guarantee. It is important to understand the terms and conditions of the guarantee. The manufacturer might require that only certain installers place the shingles on the roof in order for the warranty to be valid. If the installers used the wrong fasteners or failed to place the correct type of underlay or sheathing before laying the tiles, the manufacturer may not fulfill the warranty. In most cases, the manufacturer’s guarantee covers only the materials and not the cost of labor.

It is important to pay close attention to the condition of your roof. Once per month, stand outside and look at all faces of the roof with a pair of binoculars. If a damaging storm passesthrough the area, contact your roofer for a prompt inspection. In most cases, a premature roof failure can be prevented.