Composite Asphalt Shingle Roof
Composite shingle roofing is the most popular of all roofing materials, found on more than 80 percent of all homes. Composite shingles use either an organic or fiberglass base that is saturated with asphalt, coated on the bottom side with asphalt, and the exposed surface impregnated with small chips of slate, schist, quartz, or ceramic granules.
The vast popularity of shingles owes to the relatively low cost, easy installation, and decent life expectancy. These roofs are normally installed by professional crews, but installation is not out of reach for a skilled DIYer.
What Is The Average Lifetime Of Composite Shingles
Composite shingles or tiles are tiles made of a mix of fiberglass, recycled paper products, and asphalt and they are designed to mimic the look of slate or cedar roofing.
They are similar in pricing to standing seam roofs, are rated for up 110 MPH in wind uplift, and they can last for approximately 30 to 50 years.
How Long Does A Cedar Shake Roof Last
Cedar roofing is a popular choice due to its elegant appearance and weathered look that tends to get better with age and the fact that it is rot-resistant and insect-resistant. Cedar shakes or cedar shingle roofs can last for several decades or even longer with regular care. Cedar shakes or cedar shingles can last for around 30 to 40 years depending on the climate, the presence of any overhanging trees or other vegetation that may cause problems, and the level of maintenance that you or your roofing contractors perform.
Cedar shakes or cedar shingles can last from 20 to 40 years with proper care and maintenance, and they can withstand wind uplift of up to 110 MPH.
When you start seeing cedar shingles or shakes cracking or peeling, then you know it is time to look into repairing or replacing your roof.
Cedar shakes, shingles, and other types of wood roof require regular upkeep to stay in good shape.
An annual roof inspection think of it as a yearly physical for your roof is necessary to check out its condition, replace any split or peeling shingles, and check for leaks.
Treating the wood with a preservative that can penetrate the wood every five years can help prolong the life and beauty of your cedar roofing.
Ask the contractors who have built or inspected your cedar roofing if you need to treat your cedar roof and set up a regular maintenance schedule if you want to ensure that your cedar shingles or shakes last as long as possible.
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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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Have A Rash Go To The Doctor
If you think you might have shingles, talk to your doctor as soon as possible. Its important to see your doctor no later than three days after the rash starts. The doctor will confirm whether or not you have shingles and can make a treatment plan. If you have a condition that weakens the immune system, the doctor may give you a shingles test. The shingles test can also help doctors diagnose shingles in people who don’t have a rash. Although there is no cure for shingles, early treatment with drugs that fight the virus can help the blisters dry up faster and limit severe pain. Shingles can often be treated at home. People with shingles rarely need to stay in a hospital.
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See The Benefits Of Roof Maxx For Yourself
At Roof Maxx, we believe that 15 years is too short a lifespan for the average asphalt shingle roof. Our natural, plant-based treatment will breathe new life into your shingles, helping them last for 5 more years with each treatment. If youre ready to learn more about Roof Maxx or want to schedule a consultation to see how our natural roof treatment can save your roof and your budget, contact us today.
Of Your Toughest Roofing Questions Answered
The TOH pros offer up their best advice for shingling properly, sniffing out leaks, and knowing when its time to reroof an old roof.
Putting a safe roof over your head isn’t necessarily a one-time deal. Shingles stain, condensation collects, and high winds carry roofs wherever they please. That’s where the TOH crew’s knowledge and your sweat equity enter the picture. Here, we cover roof-related scenarios to help prevent future mishaps, like a missing roof.
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Wood Shake Shingle Roof
Wood shakes are a thicker material than wood shingles, and they can be expected to stand up better than wood shingles to weather and UV rays. They are not suitable for most DIYers to install, requiring professional installation. Like wood shingles, shakes may be restricted in regions where wildfires are a known hazard.
Roofing Fails: How To Spot The Problem
Q: How do you know when an asphalt shingle roof needs replacement? Are there clues to look for before telltale water stains appear on our plaster ceilings?
Pat, Plymouth, Minn.
A:Tom Silva replies: There are several clues, and the biggest one is age. If your roof is more than 20 years old, there’s a good chance it’s due for replacement. But younger roofs can fail too, so it’s a good idea to inspect a roof at least once a year. Don’t use a ladder, though. Binoculars are easier and a lot safer, and you can spot most problems from the ground.
Here’s what to look for: numerous shingles that are lifting up, cracked or missing, with curled edges, or with smooth dark areas, which indicate that the protective granules have worn off. Also, go into the attic on a sunny day and, with the lights off, check the underside of the chimney and the stack vent. If you see little pinhole spots of light, the flashing is shotanother indication that the roofing might not be in good shape.
While you’re in the attic, scan the underside of the roof sheathing for any new signs of water staining since the last inspection, as well as any soft or moist spots, which tend to show up after a heavy rain. If these problems are widespread, it’s a sure sign that you need to call a roofer.
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Looking For A Home Improvement Contractor
How long does a roof last on a house? The answer is not forever and it could be time for you to replace yours. With our SELECT ShingleMaster roof replacement accreditation, a distinction given to only one percent of roofers in the United States, trust the experts at Long Roofing with your roof replacement. Visit us online or call us at 844-602-LONG to request an estimate and get a free in-home consultation!
Why You Can Expect Less Life Expectancy Than What The Label Says
Unfortunately, people need to make money and some roofers will try to upsell shingles. You will be told that life expectancy is much higher than what the truth is. It will also depend on the weather and climate as to how long the shingles will last. Stormier and hotter years cause the shingles to damage and replacement may be earlier than expected.
This is why researching various types of shingles is important. Also, researching home inspectors, reading reviews, and finding one who is reputable is essential. They can diagnose the issue and then refer you to a professional company.
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Should You Get The Shingles Vaccine
The shingles vaccine is safe and easy, and it may keep you from getting shingles and PHN. Healthy adults age 50 and older should get vaccinated with a shingles vaccine called Shingrix, which is given in two doses. Zostavax, a previous shingles vaccine, is no longer available in the United States.
You should try to get the second dose of Shingrix between two and six months after you get the first dose. If your doctor or pharmacist is out of Shingrix, you can use the Vaccine Finder to help find other providers who have Shingrix. You can also contact pharmacies in your area and ask to be put on a waiting list for Shingrix. If it’s been more than six months since you got the first dose, you should get the second dose as soon as possible. You don’t need to get a first dose again.
You should get Shingrix even if you have already had shingles, received Zostavax, or dont remember having had chickenpox. However, you should not get a vaccine if you have a fever or illness, have a weakened immune system, or have had an allergic reaction to Shingrix. Check with your doctor if you are not sure what to do.
You can get the shingles vaccine at your doctors office and at some pharmacies. Medicare Part D and private health insurance plans may cover some or all of the cost. Check with Medicare or your health plan to find out if it is covered.
How Long Do Architectural Shingles Last
Shingles on the roof are important as they protect the roof and house. There are various types and they come in different styles and sometimes different colors. Architectural shingles, or dimensional are one type and they can last 15-30 years, depending on the environment and maintenance.
One home you look at may have wood, while another may have metal, or have architectural shingles or more. In all, you want to make sure the home has shingles that will last and be good for the climate you live in. They are a costly investment, but necessary to keep your loved ones safe.
Lets take a look at architectural shingles and why they are better than three-tab, life expectancy, when a replacement may occur, the cost versus other types of shingles, and wind mitigation.
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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.
Signs You Need To Replace Your Asphalt Shingles
Since we cant give you an exact expiration date for your roof, youll need to keep track of its age and monitor its condition as the years go by. If you start to notice some of the following symptoms, you likely need to replace your roof soon:
- Missing shingles
- Algae or moss that has lingered on the roof, damaging the shingles
- A leak in the roof
- Sagging roof
- Water damage inside your home
- Rot or decay
If you identify any of these signs of roof damage, dont freak out! You dont need to schedule a roof replacement right away. In some cases, the issue can be repaired and the roof can last for many years to come.
As soon as you notice the damage, simply contact a trusted roofer and schedule an inspection. Using his or her experience and expertise, your roofer can recommend a repair or a replacement.
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Are you looking to replace your roof with asphalt shingles? Or perhaps you need to schedule a roof inspection, to ensure your roof is in good condition? If you live in southwest Missouri, contact Taylor-Made Roofing for help. With over 20 years of experience in residential and commercial roofing, Taylor-Made Roofing is a company that you can trust with all of your roofing needs. Our family-owned business offers quality services, a reassuring warranty, and free estimates. For more information, please contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you!
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How Long Does Shingles Last
Most cases of shingles last three to five weeks. Shingles follows a pattern:
- The first sign is often burning or tingling pain sometimes, it includes numbness or itching on one side of the body.
- Somewhere between one and five days after the tingling or burning feeling on the skin, a red rash will appear.
- A few days later, the rash will turn into fluid-filled blisters.
- About a week to 10 days after that, the blisters dry up and crust over.
- A couple of weeks later, the scabs clear up.
Most people get shingles only one time. But, it is possible to have it more than once.
Heating And Cooling Of Roof Shingles
Just like asphalt on the roads, asphalt on your shingles expands and contracts with fluctuating temperatures throughout the year. Repeated heating and cooling of asphalt shingles can cause cracking and curling. Shingles are reinforced to withstand seasonal temperature changes, but over time shingles will weaken under these conditions. Sun exposure can also cause oxidation and fading of your shingles, making them appear older and weakening the holding power of the asphalt binder.
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What Factors Impact How Long Your Roof Lasts
- Quality of the installation workmanship – A poor quality installation will shorten your roofs lifespan.
- Environmental conditions – Exposure to high winds, extreme temperatures, and falling debris can decrease how long your roof lasts.
- The quality of materials used – Cheaper materials wont cost as much upfront but will have to be replaced more often than other expensive roofing materials.
- The type of roofing material used – Each roofing material has different durability, making them last longer or shorter in different conditions.
While there are several factors that impact how long your roof lasts, your roof’s lifespan most heavily depends on the materials used. Let’s take a closer look at the various roof types and how long each of them lasts.
Lifespan Of Different Types Of Roofs
Many roof types such as 3-tab shingles can last between 15 and 20 years, while some other types of roofs can last upwards of 70 years, as long as they remain safe from severe storms. Several factors can affect the longevity of your roof, including weather, proper installation, and of course, the roofing material.
Here are the most common roofing material types and their estimated lifespans:
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Can You Repair Your Roof Instead Of Replacing The Whole Roof
This depends on the roof condition, age of the roof, and what the issue was caused by. If the issue was caused by strong winds and just a shingle was blown off, then you may be able to replace just the shingle. However, a shingle being blown off is likely due to poor installation or an aged roof. It is imperative to replace your roof before water or weather damage causes damage to your homes structure. Structure repairs are more expensive to fix and are usually more extensive and complicated.
Even if your roof can be repaired, consider replacing your whole roof instead of repairing it. This will keep the consistency of your roof and it will be up to date with all the new shingle material. Also, if your roof is 20 years old it is most likely nearing the end of its life. If you are patching new shingles on an old roof, they will probably stand out and look unappealing. It is best to consider all options when you notice roof damage and leaking. We recommend contacting your local roofing expert to help you determine how long do roof shingles last.
Picking The Materials And Preparation
The quickest and most straightforward way to change your roof is to stick with your roofs current materials. The beneath insulation and support are similar, and you likely wont need extra reinforcement to back the weight of heavier tiles or slate roofs.
Plan on how to leave the house while experts install your roof. Sticking around when work is in progress may subject you to constant noise or risks from falling objects.
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