How Long Should a Roof Last For?

When you own a home, there are many tasks involved in order to make sure it is properly maintained. One of the largest concerns for homeowners is when to replace a roof, and similarly, how long should a roof last for. The roof is one of the most important areas of a home and keeping it in good condition can save you tons of money, time, and stress! In this blog, we discuss how long a good roof should last, as well as the signs that your roof is in need of a replacement. 

Generally speaking, a well-built roof should last between 20 and 40 years. This number relies on the roof being built properly, the appropriate materials being used, the climate and weather, as well as the materials of roof you have. Here, we’ve highlighted the top three most common roof styles:

Cedar Shake Roof: 

A cedar shake roof is one of the longest-lasting materials you can have. This type of roof typically lasts between 30 and 40 years before a replacement is needed. If the roof was properly installed and the materials used are high quality, you can expect to get closer to 40 years out of your roof before replacement. 

Fibre Cement Shingles:  

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance option, fibre cement shingles are a suitable choice. These materials typically last around 25 years. The paint job on the exterior of the roof is typically needed every 5 or 7 years, however, this will heavily depend on your climate and weather conditions over the years. If there is heavy wear on the roof due to extreme weather, you may find yourself needing a paint job or replacement sooner.

Asphalt/Composite Roof:

While an asphalt roof is the most cost-effective option, it typically has the shortest life compared to other materials. Generally speaking, this type of roof requires replacement after around 20 years. With that being said, an asphalt roof is still a popular choice.

When a Replacement is Needed:

If you start to see any major cracks in the shingles or if they start to look awfully dried and curled up, you know you are in need of a replacement. Leaving the issue unaddressed can lead to further damage to your home, welcoming leaks and water damage. If you are in need of a new roof or would like an estimate on a roof repair, contact us at Roofmaster today!