How Long Should Your Roof Last In Georgia
How long doroofs last in Georgia? There are certain factors you need to account for. Theweather and climate your roof deals with will have an impact on its lifespan.The quality of the installation and routine maintenance also play an importantrole. It isn’t just the type of roof that matters either, but also the specificroofing material as well.
How Long Does An Asphalt Roof Last
An asphalt shingle roof can last around 15 to 25 years, if properly maintained and barring any significant weather events or disasters.
However, you will probably want to have your roof checked out by professionals around the 15 year mark, especially if you have dealt with any kind of major weather issues.
Asphalt shingles are made from layers of organic material and cement fibers over a layer of black asphalt that heats up in the sun and forms a watertight layer that offers protection from UV rays and wind as well.
If you think your asphalt shingles might need to be repaired or replaced, look for major cracks, loose or missing granules, or shingles that are curled up at the edges.
A hailstorm, blizzard, tornado, or other catastrophic weather event can also shorten the lifetime of your roof and you may need a full replacement or roof repair.
3 tab asphalt shingle roofs one of the most popular kinds in most temperate climates including the midwestern United States are some of the more common asphalt roofing options, but there are some variations like architectural or dimensional shingles, which can last longer.
Keep in mind that if you have an asphalt shingle roof in places that get serious strong sunlight like southern California, Texas, Nevada, New Mexico, or Arizona, then youll want to be aware that your roof might not last as long as it would in other areas like the Midwest or Northeast.
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.
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Average Lifespan Of A Roofing Material
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles have a lifespan that ranges from 15 to 20 years. However, some types, such as architectural asphalt, are superior and will last longer. Their ability to withstand harsh weather conditions can give them an additional 10 years compared to 3-tab shingles.
Clay/Cement Tile Roofing
Concrete or clay tiles are some of the most durable roofing materials in the current market because they can withstand natural elements without wearing off easily. On the downside, they are very heavy, which makes installation a little challenging. It also means the roof must be reinforced before the installation of the tiles.
However, the additional sturdiness helps protect the roof further. Their lifespan ranges between 50 to 100 years.
Slate Roofing
Slate roofing is the most long-lasting option out of all roofing types. It can go up to 125 years without needing replacement. If climatic conditions are adverse, the slate will last 100 years.
Wood Shingles
If you have wood shingles, expect them to last for at least 15 years and at most 30 years. The longevity will depend on the maintenance routines because these roofing materials cannot remain sturdy without being tended to. You have to clean the roof regularly to remove debris and moss that could accumulate moisture and cause the roof to decay. Wood shingles are also susceptible to fire damage.
With regular maintenance and fire-resistant coating, these roofing materials can last up to 50 years or more.
Wood Shakes
What Are The Most Common Roof Shingle Types
If youre looking to replace your roof, you may wonder what type of roof shingles you should use. You have no shortage of optionsshingles come in all different types, styles, and colors. Heres a look at the different types of roof shingles available for residential roofing so that you can make an informed choice for your needs.
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How Long Do Asphalt Shingles Last
In the US, asphalt shingles are the most common roof material. Theyre expected to last somewhere between 15 and 25 years, but bear in mind that there are different types of asphalt shingles.
The cheapest three tab asphalt shingles are likely to have a lifespan of around 15 to 20 years. More expensive are architectural or dimensional shingles, but they could last up to around 25 years and can withstand more testing weather conditions. The most expensive premium versions could last up to 30 years and tolerate the highest maximum wind uplift.
Should I File A Claim For Roof Damage
If youre looking to repair your roof it will typically be a good idea to file a claim before repairing a roof. Your insurance will likely require you to get an approved roofing contractor and get a roof inspection to support your claim. In some cases, your insurance may decide that a roof replacement will be better than a repair.
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Is Your Roof Defective
And how can you tell if your roof might be defective?
If your roof is relatively new and you are seeing issues like shingles buckling and curling, granules coming off asphalt shingles, missing shingles, or other similar problems, then your roof might be defective and you should reach out to the roofers in your area or contractor who built or installed it, as well as your insurance company.
This goes doubly so if the insurance company paid for your roof due to damage from a weather event or disaster.
If your roof is only a few years old and you are noticing any of the aforementioned issues, then you might need to get your roof looked at by professionals because it could become a bigger problem, especially if you are considering selling your house in the near future.
Also keep in mind that the value of your house may increase or decrease depending on the age of your roof, so if you are planning on moving in the near future, you may want to get your roof assessed before you put the property on the market.
Moreover, if you are thinking of purchasing a new home or other property, then you should make sure that the roof is relatively new and in good repair if not, youll want to ensure that the property is priced accordingly and be aware that you may need to replace the roof soon.
What Is The Lifespan Of Wood Shingles
Cedar shingles repel bug and resist mould growth. They also demand a lot of maintenance to keep from warping or splitting. Every 5 years the roof needs treatment and continuous maintenance.
If you keep up with your annual roof maintenance, that shake roof will last 30 years. Neglect it for too long and the wet wooden roof could end up collapsing. When Century Roofing installs your shingles, schedule a maintenance appointment for the next year.
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Roof Maintenance Pro Tips
Use these tips from the professionals to keep your roof in good shape for longer.
A pro tip for making your roof last longer is to be sure and cut all limbs from surrounding trees that are physically touching your roof, says Rick Abbiati, owner of Colony Property Investments. Even the smallest limb touching your roof can rub a hole right through the shingles and thus cause a water leak. With every gust of wind that branch is working its way through the shingles. Extend the life of your roof by keeping all fauna cut back.
The most common thing that grows on tile roofs is algae, says Mark Soto, professional roofer with Roofing MKE. You will want to continuously clean this from roofs with a combination of water and bleach. While some people use pressure washers, this is not recommended since it can actually damage the tiles. Cleaning them with your solution and then watering it down with a hose is the best way to go about it. Since tiles arent great at dealing with people walking on them, try to do it from the edge while on a ladder.
Independently of your region and roof type, you should also regularly clean gutters and ventilation to prevent clogging.
What Is The Life Expectancy Of 3 Tab Shingles
3 tab shingles are the most popular sort of shingles for sloped roofs, since they are comparably inexpensive, readily available in most areas, and can last for approximately 10 to 20 years.
One thing to keep in mind if youre considering a 3 tab shingle roof is that they tend to perform better in more temperate climates such as the east coast and midwest, so if you live in or are buying property somewhere with very cold winters or that is incredibly prone to major storms or blizzards, you might want to look at alternative options.
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What Are Rubber Roof Shingles
Recycled rubber and environmentally friendly, sustainable, and flexible plastics are the main components of rubber shingles. They provide higher energy-efficiency than other shingle materials in the industry.
Rubber shingles come in rolls or sheets, making the installation process a lot easier than usual. Even though they are made of plastics and used tires, manufacturers develop with a wide range of designs that replicate asphalt shingles, tiles, cedar shake, or slates.
Many rubber shingle manufacturers include at least 80% of recycled materials and a composite of other materials such as sawdust. As a result, rubber roof shingles have great durability and an architectural appearance. In general, these shingles are between 45-90 mm thick.
How Long Should A 30
It can be challenging for homeowners to gauge when they should replace their shingle roof, and its not always as straightforward as missing shingles or ceiling leaks.
One key factor in helping you determine if you need a new roof is its age. Your roofs actual lifespan depends on several things, including the environment, the type of roofing materials used, and the availability of proper repair and maintenance.
In this article, we will discuss how long a 30-year roof really lasts and what affects its lifespan.
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Is It Time To Repair Roof Shingles Or Get A New Roof
If your roof is showing signs of wear and tear such as cracks, thinning surface material, curling, loose or missing shingles, faded color or other abnormalities, it may be time to fix the affected shingles or install a new roof. It can be difficult to know when its time to repair versus replace your roof.
Wood Shakes And Shingles
Usually, a wooden shingle roof lasts for about 30 years with warranties that run up to 30 years. In order for wood shingles and shake roofs to last, however, you need to perform regular maintenance. Wooden roof upkeep includes yearly cleanings, as well as repainting or staining every 5 years.
Wooden shakes can last for decades if properly maintained. Image source: Westshore Roofing
The type of wood that you use will also determine how long the roof will last. Cedar shakes, for example, last longer than other types of wooden shingles because cedar is rot and insect-resistant. Cedar shakes are also able to withstand winds up to 245 miles per hour, which makes them a popular type of roofing material for coastal homes.
Signs you need a wooden roof replacement: Splitting shingles, rotting shingles, pest damage, mold, and/or algae growth.
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How Long Do Wood Shakes And Shingles Last
The life expectancy of a roof made from wood can be up to 30 or 40 years, depending on the type of wood. Its often cedar thats used because it is resistant to both rot and insects.
Regular maintenance of a wood roof is required for it to achieve the longest possible lifespan, including cleaning and staining.
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Can You Burn Wood Shingles
If you are installing a new cedar shingle or shake roof do not burn the old shingles or shakes. They may look like perfect kindling wood but the danger is in what you do not see, they are chemically treated. When repairing or renovating your home do not burn any scrap pieces of engineered wood in the fireplace.
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The Life Expectancy Of Your Roof
Having a roof inspection conducted during the standard due diligence stage that occurs before you buy a property is fairly standard, and dont hesitate to ask for concessions if the roof isnt up to code or has problems that could prove to be costly in the future.
If youve purchased a home or built a home before then you probably know that the roof might be one of the complicated and potentially expensive aspects of the purchase.
Youll want to know the age and condition of the roof that youre putting over your and your family or employees, along with any concerns or special requirements for the type of material and style of roof on the property.
Youll also want to understand the average lifespan of the type of roof you are buying or installing in your specific geographic area and its unique weather patterns.
And perhaps most importantly, youll want to get the roof inspected before buying a new home as well as having regular roof inspections performed to assess the current state of your roof.
For instance, asphalt shingle roofs tend to last around 20 to 25 years, while other types of roofing, like metal standing seam roofing, can last for 50 years or even longer, depending on your climate, type of property, and various other environmental factors including things like overhanging trees and the humidity percentage, amount of rainfall, or if you are prone to roof hail damage.
So, at this point, you might be asking how long does a new roof lasts?
How Do You Maintain A Wood Shake Roof
Cedar shingle maintenance must include protective treatments every one to three years. Without treatments, cedar shakes can degrade, buckle, rot, and even burn. To protect and preserve your roof, every few years, professionally apply water and fire repellents, fungicides, and algaecides to the shingles.
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What Is The Average Lifespan Of Premium Shingles
Like architectural shingles or dimensional shingles, premium asphalt shingles can withstand around 110 MPH to 130 MPH of wind uplift depending on how they are installed.
The difference between the two types of shingles is that premium shingles are generally more luxurious in appearance and are usually installed on high-end homes.
Premium shingles last from 20 to 30 years on average.
Adding a desirable roof shingle color can also add to the appeal and value of your property as well.
What To Consider When Replacing Your Roof
Replacing your roof is a big decision and a big investment. Not only does it cost a lot of money, but it also involves a lot of options to sort out. Things to consider when replacing your roof include:
- Choosing roofing materials that fit your budget
- Choosing roofing materials that accommodate how long you want to stay in your home
- Thinking about future roof maintenance and options for extending the life of your roof
- Developing a plan for your roof that is appropriate for your climate
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Early Failure Of Asphalt Shingles
Its important to talk about a major issue homeowners are seeing these days with asphalt shingles. A few decades ago, manufactured shingles were much heavier due to the percentage of asphalt contained within them. Nowadays however, a lot of the asphalt in the shingles has been replaced with crushed limestone filler. This makes the shingles much lighter in weight and much less effective, even though the advertised warranty has jumped from around 30 years, to lifetime warranties.
This is a well-documented problem with even Bob Vila speaking out about it. Class action lawsuits have been filed on behalf of many homeowners across the country who have had their asphalt-shingle roof fail in as few as 6 years after installation.
Cost-cutting on the part of the shingle manufacturers has caused a variety of failures, including blistering, buckling, and leaking. These are expensive fixes and when homeowners turned to their warranty, they were shocked to realize the coverage only replaces the shingles themselves and doesnt cover the labor costs of replacing the roof , and it doesnt cover damages caused by the failures either.
If you have an asphalt shingle roof that is showing signs of a defect well before the warranty is up, you may be the victim of shoddy manufacturing. To mitigate the issue and keep your costs down, heres what you can do:
