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HomeReaders ChoiceHow Long Do Composite Roofs Last

How Long Do Composite Roofs Last

How Much Do Composite Roofs Cost

How long should shingles last? | Sharpe Roofing University

Composite shingles can cost approximately $500 to $1,500 per square, which is more than what youll pay for asphalt. But, you will save money by choosing composite shingles instead of real slate slate costs around $900 to $2,000 per square.

When it comes to cedar shakes that are thicker than red cedar shingles, you can expect to pay around $600 to $1,400 per square, so youll probably also save more money by choosing composite materials instead, especially because they can mimic cedar shake.

How Long Do Fiber Cement Shingles Last

Fiber cement shingles and other composition shingles can last for around 20 to 30 years.

The type of shingle roof that you have will affect how long your roof lasts as well as when you need to consider replacing shingles or get other repairs done or do them yourself, if you are fairly handy and comfortable climbing around on your roof.

There are a variety of guides online for performing roof repairs, so if you are comfortable with DIY you can often fix or apply new shingles to your roof yourself.

Any kind of roof will have its lifespan shortened by major weather events like hurricanes, tornadoes, or other storms, so even if your roof and home seem relatively or undamaged after such an occurrence, know that you should have the roof checked out right away to make sure there arent any small issues that could prove to be a major problem in the future.

How Long Does Each Type Of Roof Last

The primary factor that determines how long a roof will last is the material from which its made. On the lower end are asphalt shingles, some of which last longer than others. At the high end are copper and slate roofs, which can last for over half a century. Some even say they could last up to 100 years.

The more durable the material used for a roof, the more expensive those materials tend to be. Well take a look at how long each type of roof lasts along with how much you can expect to pay. That way, you can do the math to determine what you get in return for the roof you buy.

The average lifespan of different types of roofs include:

  • 15-30 years for asphalt shingles
  • 20-50 years for composite shingles
  • 30 years for modified rubber shingles
  • 30-40 years for wood shingles
  • 50 years for clay tiles
  • 50 years for concrete tiles
  • 50 years for metal roofs
  • 60+ years for copper roofs

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The Value Of A Long Lasting Roof

Another reason to consider replacing your roof is the value that it adds to your house if you are planning on selling it in the near future and your roof is nearing 15 to 20 years old, depending on the type of material used, the quality of the build, and any damage that may have occurred.

Getting a roof inspection, fixing any problems before they start, and potentially replacing your roof can make a significant difference in the selling price.

In fact, a house with a new roof sells for an average of $12,000 more than a house with an older roof, which means that you may recover the costs of the roof replacement when you sell.

Regardless of whether or not you are planning on selling your property any time soon, the condition and the longevity of the roof over your head is of utmost importance.

While the length of time that your particular roof lasts depends on the type of materials used, the installation techniques involved, and any damage that may need to be fixed during its lifespan, all the aforementioned guidelines can help you determine when to replace your roof as well as to understand the potential lifetime value of your investment in a new roof.

Composition Roof Vs Metal Roof

#1 Synthetic Shake Roofing

While composition roofing is far less expensive and easy to install than metal roofing, the benefits of metal roofing are significant compared to most other roofing types including composition roofing.

Metal roofs are more durable, energy efficient and long-lasting than a majority of roof types, but far more expensive. Ultimately, budget will determine whether or not composition or metal roofing is the right option for you.

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How Long Does A Metal Roof Last

Metal roofing can last for decades, which is one reason that it is popular in many areas.

In addition, the look of a copper or zinc roof can be aesthetically pleasing and add value to your home due to its appearance and longevity.

After all, what potential buyer wouldnt be interested in a beautiful roof that can last for decades?

More importantly, a metal roof can last for 50 years or even longer if they are well cared for and no major disasters or other problems occur.

In fact, copper and zinc roofing can last for well over five decades and can be fully functional for 100 years or longer, which might make these types of metal roof costs well worth the investment if they are the right style and fit for your home and your style preferences.

Metal roofs have become increasingly common due to their longevity as well as their energy efficiency, since they can often keep your property cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

Standing seam roofing systems are the most common types of metal roofing systems that youll see in most residential neighborhoods, and they can last anywhere from 30 to 50 years to over 100 years depending on the material, construction techniques, and the location of the property itself.

Standing seam roofs can be crafted from a variety of materials including stainless steel, copper, titanium, and zinc.

Another affordable option for metal roofing is ribbed metal panels, which offer many of the same benefits but work well on steeper or gabled roofs.

How Long Does A Tin Roof Last

A tin roof can last over 50 years barring any kind of disaster or emergency, like most other types of metal roofs.

In some locations, tin roofs are preferred due to their ability to withstand most weather events and they can last as long as most metal roofing systems, although they do lack the sheer longevity of copper and zinc roofing.

A tin roofing system might also be the best choice if you want the durability of a metal roof but dont have the budget or inclination for zinc or copper.

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The Guide With All The Information You Need For A Roof Replacement

Now you know how often the 5 most popular roofing materials need to be replaced. After reading this article, you should know if itâs near the time or the right time to replace your roof.

If it is, thereâs a lot you need to learn about going through the roof replacement process. You need to choose the right roofing material, know how much your replacement will cost, how to hire a great roofing contractor, and so much more.

Wouldnât it be great if all this information was in one place? If you answered yes, then we have the guide for you.

With The Complete Guide to Purchasing a Roof, youâll become one of the most informed homeowners in the roofing industry. Donât go into the roof replacement blind, get your free guide now.

Since 1990, the team at Bill Ragan Roofing has been proud to offer Nashville and surrounding areas high-quality roofing services. We strive to give you and everyone we work with an experience rare in the roofing industry based on honesty, education, and strong workmanship.

Heres Your Complete Guide to Purchasing a Roof to learn what you need to know about your upcoming roof replacement and to make all the right decisions.

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How Do You Repair And Replace Composite Roofs

How Long Does a Roof REALLY Last? (Roof Lifespan)

Most composite roofs have surprisingly long sustenance, but its always necessary to inspect your roof at least once per year. To avoid future problems, always make sure you contact professionals who are trained to add appropriate ventilation and install the roofing perfectly well.

How to maintain composite roofs?

Composite shingle roofs need to be inspected at least once per year. All flashings and penetrations need to be checked and re-sealed as needed. One common difficulty is the building up of algae on the roof. In wet areas like in the Midwest and coastal regions, moss can grow between the shingles.

Due to the nature of moss, moisture and shade on the roof provides the perfect colony making your roof vulnerable. If you are in desert cities like San Antonio and New Braunfels, algae growth, not moss growth, is the more likely problem. Roofs can be shampooed with a special low-pressure washer and a non-harmful chemical solution. You can prevent algae by removing any decaying objects from the roof, including cleaning leaves from any tress around your roof.

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How To Install Composition Roof Shingles

Described below is the racking method of installing composition roof shingles:

Firstly, prepare the roof by Installing underlay, drip edge, and valley flashing.

Load the roof, preferably with a boom with the shingles while being careful not to allow them slide downwards. Either spread the shingles on the roof for easy reach or stack them near the ridge.

Snap horizontal chalk lines so that you maintain a straight course. Then snap lines for every course or every other course.

Install a continuous starter strip or full-sized shingles, which are simply turned downside up. Often, however, a starter course is made of cut shingles.

Place the shingle upside down on a sheet of plywood and use a straightedge to cut it 7 inches wide you will use the portion with no tabs.

Beginning at one end, place the starter shingles downside up with the self-seal strip near the bottom with the top aligned with the chalk line and the bottom flush with the bottom of the underlayment.

Now, you can snap a new bond line to align the shingles on the other side.

Why Should You Consider Using Composite Roofing

There are several reasons why you should select composite roofing. These reasons are why many people have migrated to using synthetic roofing. Composite shingles are not affected by moisture, and they are also resistant to fire. Composite shingles dont tear or crack due to weather changes they also dont peel off. Composite shingles come in different colors and sizes, giving you a wide range to choose from. Composite shingles can be installed to conform to any traditional roof. They are also lighter, making it easy for transport and installation.

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The Lifespan Of Synthetic Roofing Shingles

While traditional asphalt continues to be a popular roofing material, and genuine cedar shakes give an authentic warmth to a homes look, synthetic shingles are swiftly rising as a preferred roofing solutionand for good reasons. Synthetic shingles typically have an extremely long lifespan of 30-50 years. This extreme longevity, reliable durability, and customizable beauty keep homeowners thrilled with their roofing selection for years to come.

While a roofing materials curb appeal and warranty are important facets of your selection process, to get the best overall value for your roof replacement investment, it helps to gain knowledge of the roofing materials lifespan before selecting which type you will have installed.

Should I Replace A 25 Year Old Roof

Estes Roofing and Construction

One of the first things you should consider when inspecting your roof for damage is its age.A roof that is 25 to 30 years old may require a complete replacement, even if it appears to be in good condition from the outside. This is because the materials used in older roofs may have degraded over time, making them more susceptible to damage.

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The Popularity Of Shingle Types

Although bituminous or composite shingles are the most popular choice because they are cheap and easy to install, the best roof shingles will be paired with high-quality roofing products such as slate, tiles and metal.

Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing material sold today, and because they are affordable and include a 25-year warranty, they have been installed in more than 80 new homes.

They can be installed by most roofing professionals, and their composition virtually eliminates the possibility of breaking fragile shingles when walking on them. They are lightweight and recyclable and need to be taken to landfill every 50 years, not every 10-15 years, as is the case with some shingles.

The composite cedar vibrators have an estimated life of about 50 years and can be installed by professional roofing workers. Composite shingles have an expected life of about 50 years and require minimal maintenance to keep them in perfect condition.

The Life Expectancy Of Composite Roofing

As one of the most common types of shingles on residences and businesses, composite shingles are revered for their stylish appearance, impact- and fire-resistant design and long lifespan. If youre looking to replace your existing roof, but unsure if composite roofing is right for your commercial or industrial building, get in touch with McDonald & Wetle. Well help you understand how the life expectancy of composite shingles may translate to cost savings down the road.

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Get The Tips You Need To Hire A Great Roofing Contractor

After going through these comparisons, you should have a good idea if a real slate/cedar shake or a composite roof is the right choice for you. If youre still on the fence about which one is right for you, take this Roof Type quiz to assure yourself youre making the right decision.

But if youve already decided and are ready to move on to the next step of getting your new roof, its time to start looking for a roofing contractor. Choosing the right one is the biggest and most important decision youll have to make for your roofing project.

Because of this, you need to know how to find a great one in your area. Thats why were going to give you 7 tips that will help you find a great roofing contractor.

Since 1990, Bill Ragan Roofing has provided high-quality roof replacements in Nashville and surrounding areas. Our expertise in all roof types ensures you get the most of your roof investment, no matter the material you choose.

If youre local to Nashville, dont hesitate to contact us for your roofing project today.

If you arent local, dont think were the right fit, or just want to learn more, check out 7 Tips to Find a Great Roofing Contractor, so youre able to make the right hiring decision.

Is Metal Roofing The Best Value

How Long Does a Flat Roof Last?

For a homeowner who lives in a home for 30 to 40 years before selling, a single $22,000 re-roofing expense might be the only one ever incurred if using metal roofing. And if you are shopping for a new home, buying one with a metal roof may mean youâll never face a re-roofing project at all. In many ways, standing-seam metal roofs might be a more cost-effective option than the far more popular asphalt shingle roof.

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Clay Or Cement Tile Roofs

Clay tile roofs are very popular in the Southwest United States but they can be found anywhere in the country, thanks to their incredible strength and durability.

Traditional tiles are made from terracotta clay, but there are also ceramic tiles roofs , as well as concrete tile roofs. All consist of individual tiles installed in overlapping layers over the roof surface, and all have roughly the same degree of strength and durability. They require a sturdy roofing framing sufficient to hold the weight and must be installed by skilled professionals. This may well be the only roof your home ever needs.

Types Of Composite Roofs

Presently, there are three types of composite shingles:

  • 3-Tab Shingles: The most common type of composite shingle and the least expensive. These have a single layer and tabs created by notched vertical slots.
  • Laminate Shingles: Also known as dimensionals, laminate shingles have become popular because they are similar to 3-tab shingles but have far more thickness.
  • Architectural Shingles: The top of the line in terms of shingles. Architectural shingles are strong, heavy, and much larger than 3-tabs and laminates. Some also have additional features, like fire retardants.

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Hiring A Reputable Roofing Contractor To Install Your Composition Roof

Just like proper ventilation, hiring a reputable roofing contractor to install your roof plays one of the biggest roles in the lifespan. When your roof is installed properly, youll get as close to the lifespan of your roofing materials as possible.

Thats why you need to find a roofing contractor that has a strong installation history. If you hire one that doesnt use correct roofing techniques, your roofs life will be cut short, and youll need a roof replacement well before its time.

No matter if you need repairs or a full roof replacement, your contractor plays a huge role in every aspect of a composition roof.

Wood Shingles Or Shakes

Appropriate Roofing Materials For Your Home

When it comes to a long-lasting roof, one of the worst roofing material options available is a wood shingle roof. Although wooden shingles were all the rage in the past, more durable materials have been discovered in recent years, rendering these rotting roof types obsolete.

Wooden shingles are significantly more susceptible to pest problems and severe wear and tear over shorter periods. Issues such as rotting, sagging, mold, and other structural damage are all too common with wood shingles, making other roof types a much smarter choice in the long run.

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