The typical lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof ranges from 15 to 30 years, depending on several factors. With regular maintenance, you may not need to replace your roof for 25 years or more. Other factors include weather conditions, the type of roofing material, and the initial installation proficiency of the roofing company.
If you would like to learn more about the lifespan of Asphalt Shingles, keep reading. If your home or office needs a new roof, contact Maycon Construction Services today! We provide quality roofing services in Huntington, WV, and the surrounding cities in the tri-state area.
Type of Roofing Material
Asphalt shingles come in two main material options: organic or fiberglass. Organic asphalt shingles feature a thicker asphalt layer with a paper backing and may include cellulose or other fiber filler for a durable structure. Organic shingles are often the pricier material but can warp over time.
Fiberglass shingles have a better fire resistance rating than organic and feature a thinner asphalt layer with a fiberglass base. Fiberglass shingles often offer longer warranties and withstand hot climates well. They don’t hold up as well in cold climates.
Asphalt shingles come in three main types:
- Three-tab shingles. These shingles are the most affordable, made with fiberglass, and often come with a 20-to-30-year manufacturer warranty. They lie flat on the roof and are lightweight for easy installation.
- Architectural shingles. Also called dimensional or laminated shingles, these multi-layer shingles provide texture to a roof with added durability. The thicker material and longer lifespan of 25 years make them more expensive than three-tab shingles. Most architectural shingles come with a limited lifetime warranty.
- Luxury shingles. These premium shingles are larger than the other shingle types and can look like slate tile or wood shake. They also offer the most durability, with a potential lifespan of up to 50 years.
Weather Conditions and Foliage in Your Area
When asking, “How long does a shingle roof last?” know that several environmental factors can influence your asphalt shingle roof’s lifespan.
UV rays can gradually loosen protective granules on the surface of the shingles, weakening the structure over time. If your home faces east or west, most of your roof should have even sun exposure throughout the day. However, if your home faces north, the south side of your roof will get most of the sunlight throughout the year.
Windy conditions can blow damaged or loose shingles off your roof, exposing the underlayment and creating weaknesses for water intrusion. Rain can wash away loose granules. Snow can cause ice dams to form at the edge of your roof.
If you have large trees that rub on your roof, the constant wear and tear can cause certain areas of your roof to deteriorate.
Proper Installation by an Experienced Roofing Company
Improper roof installation can lead to several issues, including voiding the manufacturer’s warranty. One key issue with improper installation is not venting the attic correctly. A well-ventilated attic allows a roof to breathe, helping regulate the temperature and humidity on the roof’s surface.
The other problem with incorrect installations or roof repairs is the shortened lifespan. Your roof may lose shingles, suffer structural damage, or allow water intrusion much earlier than a correctly installed roof.
Regular Roof Maintenance
Many companies offer annual roof maintenance plans to help extend the lifespan of your asphalt shingle roof. With an annual maintenance plan, your roofer can inspect your roof to identify potential problems before they become major.
Other Types of Roofs That Offer a Long Lifespan
If you want to replace your roof with another type of roofing material for a longer lifespan, the following alternatives are extremely durable, though much more expensive than an asphalt shingle roof:
- Wood shake or shingle: up to 30 years
- Clay or concrete tile: 50 years or more
- Metal roofing: 50-70 years or more
- Slate tile: 100 years or more
Contact Maycon Construction Services for Asphalt Shingle Roofing in Huntington, WV
So, how long does an asphalt shingle roof last? If you take good care of it, it will probably last about 30 years. If you need to replace your roof or think you need roof repairs near Huntington, WV, and the surrounding tri-state area, reach out to Maycon Construction Services. Call us at 304-208-8978 or contact us online to schedule a free estimate.
