How Many Years Does a Shingle Roof Last? Find Out Now!

Consider the Type of Shingles

When you're considering the longevity of shingles, it's critical to look at the type of shingle. After all, not all materials are the same in terms of expected durability. Shingle types include:

• Asphalt
• Composite
• Slate
• Metal
• Cedar

Asphalt shingles tend to be the go-to choice for most homeowners. But even within that type, there are variations. Architectural asphalt shingles, which are a popular pick for residential roof replacements, can last up to 25 or even 30 years.

Other options include three-tab asphalt shingles and luxury shingles. As a less expensive choice, three-tab singles can sustain use for up to 20 years. Higher-quality luxury asphalt shingles, by contrast, can last over 30 years.

Composite shingles typically combine recycled or polymer materials to create a natural-looking and durable alternative. They're an eco-friendly choice. They also boast better longevity and can last for up to 50 years if well cared for.

Fort Wayne residents seeking a standing seam metal roof can expect around 30 years of use. Cedar-shake roofs, which create a warm and inviting aesthetic, can last around 30 years if not longer.

And if you're looking for a durable choice that won't need to be replaced in your lifetime, go with slate. These sturdy roofs could still be functioning after a century of use!

Factor in Shingle Quality

Roof lifespan expectations also hinge on the quality of the shingle. Even within different types, like asphalt and metal, there will be a range in quality. Cheaper shingles will save you money in the short-term, but require replacement more quickly.

You'll need to keep your budget in mind when selecting residential shingles. And there are a few attributes you can use to evaluate shingle quality. Check for:

• Shingle appearance
• Materials used in the shingles
• Shingle quality designation

Look for shingles that appear to be well-made. They should have a thicker construction and uniform structure from one shingle to the next. Be wary of shingles that are inconsistent or flimsy in appearance.

Heavier shingles tend to provide a more durable solution than lighter ones. Look for shingles with around 240 pounds per square or even higher. You can trust asphalt shingles in this range, for example, will contain more asphalt.

Also, consider shingles that are designated as premium or luxury. These titles may come with a higher price tag, but the cost provides more wind resistance and overall durability. Your shingles will look better longer, too, since they'll contain more fade-resistant materials.

Some premium shingles can clock in at 450 pounds per square. At this weight, you can expect shingles to last over 50 years. Work with a reputable roofing contractor to find a level of shingle that offers the best blend of performance and price.

Look at Installation

How well the shingles are installed will affect shingle roof durability. If done well, the installation process can be long. But that's because there are lots of details to account for - and potentially variable weather conditions.

A proper roof installation requires ensuring there is enough attic ventilation. Without it, hot air during peak summer months can get trapped beneath your roof. In the same way, very cold air can be trapped during the winter.

As a result of either situation, the roof decking beneath your shingles can warp and the shingles will curl. Further, your roof will be prone to mold and the nails are more likely to come loose.

Look for visual cues indicating shoddy installation techniques that will lower the lifespan of your roof. When assessing installation, be sure the shingles are offset properly and lined up along the edge of your roof. Similarly, you don't want to see too many nails or excess roofing cement in the roof flashing.

A DIY approach to shingle installation can result in more damage-prone roofs, too. Unless you have roof installation experience, you'll risk compromising the job. Keep in mind roof installation also requires purchasing a lot of equipment, such as:

• Nail guns and staplers for roofing
• Shingle tear-off tools
• Blades and hatchets
• Saws to cut roof decking
• Caulking guns
• Ladders
• Personal protective equipment

The cost of this equipment can add up for homeowners. And if it's not used properly, that diminishes the quality of the installation. It also can lead to injuries if you're not comfortable using a ladder or working at significant heights.

Contacting a professional contractor in Fort Wayne is always the better choice. Ask for referrals to vet a potential roofer's quality and check that they're insured. It's also wise to seek online reviews to gauge customer satisfaction with roofers.

Additionally, ask about warranties. If a roofing contractor does not offer one, you can't be confident your new shingle roof will stand the test of time. A warranty should cover materials and workmanship.

Understand Climate Impact

Living in Fort Wayne means your roof will experience four distinct seasons. With those seasons comes wear and tear that can affect the lifespan of your roof. Check your roof for damage if you experience:

• Strong rain
• Intense wind gusts
• Excessive heat and humidity
• Heavy snowfall

Intense rain, for example, can lead to leaks in even well-installed roofs. All it takes is a small crevice for rain to find its way into your home and cause damage. Rain can seep into your attic and down your walls, creating mold and structural issues.

Further, strong rains can lead to curling shingles and water pooling. You may not need to completely replace a roof after strong springtime rainfall, but you'll want to be attentive to repair needs.

Strong rains often come with strong winds. Extreme wind gusts can pry away shingles. It's best to get a professional roofer to inspect your roof after severe weather to spot missing shingles.

Strong winds also can cause tree branches to fall suddenly. The impact of falling branches can jar shingles loose, as well. Worse yet, heavier falling limbs can dent the structure of your roof.

Watch for the impact of excessive heat and humidity, too. Heat can cause shingle cracking, while humidity can contribute to water condensation. In either case, your roof will lose effectiveness as a protective barrier over your home.

Don't overlook the impact of winter weather, either. Fort Wayne winters and snow go hand in hand. When this snow is wet and heavy, it can cause roof damage affecting your roof's longevity.

Stay on top of clearing heavy snow to prevent its weight from causing roof collapse. As another potential issue, a thick layer of snow that starts to melt can lead to water finding its way into your home. Use a snow roof rake to safely clear excess snow after a storm.

Likewise, remove snow from gutters to prevent sagging and cracking. If snow is left to melt, it can cause pooling water around your foundation - and eventually, leaks.

Don't Overlook Maintenance

Are you still wondering, "How long do shingles last?" Part of the answer rests in your hands. As a property owner, you'll need to stay on top of routine maintenance.

The exact type of maintenance you'll need to do will depend on the roof type. But, in general, you can expect to the following:

• Clean gutters twice each year
• Remove visible debris
• Treat shingles to prevent moss and algae
• Trim branches close to your roof

When it comes to shingle roof maintenance tips, another big one is to be observant. Letting roof problems fester opens the door to bigger and more expensive repairs.

In some cases, you may need to spend tens of thousands of dollars on a new roof. Instead, do a visual inspection of your roof and surrounding areas each season. Be on the lookout for problems like:

• Curled or missing shingles
• Roof flashing problems
• Chimneyy or vent leaks
• Damp walls

Contacting a professional roofing contractor when you notice these issues can result in a timely repair. You may be able to sustain your roof's life with quick intervention.

At a certain point, you'll need to evaluate your roof replacement timeline, however. Consider that roofs can last around 20 years for entry-level shingle roofs to 100 years for slate roofs. Know how old your roof is and ask for a professional inspection to gauge whether a replacement is necessary soon.

Invest in a Shingle Roof

A shingle roof can last anywhere from 20 to 100 years, depending on several factors. Consider the type of shingle and installation quality. And look at your local weather patterns and approach to maintenance when determining a roof's lifespan.

At TruChoice Roofing, we help Fort Wayne-area individuals with comprehensive roofing services for residential and commercial properties. We also provide 24-hour customer service to ensure coverage for any problem you encounter. Contact us today to learn more!