How Long Do Roofing Materials Last?

Are you building a home but want to install a roof that will last you most of your life? Roofing is one of those aspects of a house you don’t want to skimp on, as it is the barrier between your home and the elements. There are a few things that you want in a roof. Firstly, it needs to be durable, secondly, it needs to be easy to repair, and lastly, it needs to last. Below are some of the most common roofing materials and how long they’ll last you. 

Factors that influence how long roofing materials last

There are several roofing materials that you can choose from, each of that have its pros and cons. At the end of the day, you want a roofing material that’s going to last, add to the aesthetic of your home, and withstand the elements. Here are some of the most common factors that influence how long a roof lasts:

• The quality of the materials used and how well they’re installed

• Whether your roof has proper ventilation (this is a big one for asphalt roofs)

• The kind of weather and climate your area gets

• Which direction your roof is facing (sun and wind exposure matter)

• How well you look after it once it’s installed

General Types of roofing materials and how long they last

• Metal roofing: 40 to 80 years

• Asphalt shingles (standard): 15 to 30 years

• Asphalt shingles (architectural): 25 to 40 years

• Clay tiles: 50 to 80 years

• Concrete tiles: 40 to 75 years

• Slate roofing: 75 to 150+ years

• Wood shingles: 20 to 30 years

• Wood shakes: 25 to 40 years

• Rubber roofing (EPDM): 20 to 35 years

• TPO roofing: 15 to 30 years

• PVC roofing: 20 to 30 years

• Bitumen (modified): 10 to 20 years

• Green roofs (vegetative): 30 to 50 years

5 Roofing materials with the longest lifespan

While the details above are merely estimates and just mention the basic roof options, some roofing materials have proven themselves to have the longest lifespans, like:

1. Designer asphalt shingles

Designer asphalt shingles are considered to be a premium option of asphalt shingles. They are designed to look more natural, mimicking a more natural slate roofing tile. These shingles are also larger, and more durable than standard roofing shingles. Their design, with their durability, increases their appeal for homeowners as they add to their roof's aesthetic appeal and functionality. 

Designer asphalt shingles have a lifespan of well over 30 years, depending on how well they are looked after. Depending on the manufacturer, you may also get a 30-year warranty on these shingles. 

2. Metal roofing

Metal roofing often doesn’t get the reputation it deserves because people rope it in with zinc or tin roofing, which is weak and noisy when it rains. However, high-grade standing seam metal roofing is actually extremely durable and looks great on a house. The way this roofing system works is that each seam (rib) is a clip that holds the panels together, compensating for any movement created in the roof from thermal expansion. 

Furthermore, other metal roofing options also do a sterling job of sheltering and protecting your home. Depending on the roofing material, a metal roof can last anywhere from 30 to 80 years. If you play your cards right, you could also get a 30-year warranty on the paint used on the roof, ensuring that it can last longer. 

3. Cedar shake shingles

Cedar shake roof shingles are another premium roof tile option that you can choose from. These shingles are made from natural cedar wood from large cedar trees. Cedar is hard and dense. Usually, cedar shingles are split into three quality grades: common, which is inferior, select (has an 80/20 split), and 100% straight grain, which is known as the highest quality. On average, cedar tiles will give you between 30 and 50 years if they are well looked after and depending on the conditions you live in. 

4. Slate tiles

Slate tiles are robust and heavy. Unlike other roofing materials, which come in strips or panels, slate tiles come as individuals. As their name suggests, slate tiles are made from slate, a natural stone that’s mined. Because of their weight, you need to design your home to handle their weight and retrofit it to hold a slate roof. In contrast to other roofing materials on the list, slate roofing can last between 75 and 100 years or more, depending on where you live and how well they are looked after. 

5. Synthetic shingles

Synthetic shingles are made from recycled materials or synthetic polymer and are usually designed to mimic other shingles like slate or cedar. While it’s still a relatively new roofing material, Synthetic shingles are becoming more and more popular. On average, Synthetic shingles last between 30 to 50 years and may come with a warranty depending on the manufacturer. 

Estimated Lifespan of Common Roofing Materials

Finding the right materials to repair your roof

Buying the right materials for your roof is just the first part in putting up a roof that lasts. How the roof is designed and installed also plays a significant role in its longevity. This is why hiring a professional roofing contractor is essential. Consider contacting AMJ Metal Roofing for any installations or roof repairs in brisbane. With a track record of success and a good reputation, you can trust their work. 

Final thoughts

As we said earlier, your roof protects every part of your home from the elements, so it’s only natural to want to do it right with the right materials. Consider the materials above and what fits into your budget, and make sure that you get a professional to install it. When done right, your roof should last you well over 30 years with routine maintenance.