Aside from renovations, replacing and repairing your roof can be one of the more expensive projects that you’ll need to invest in. Roof replacements can be a momentous point for a homeowner and most will still be iffy on whether they should be investing in roofing materials or not.
But just like every other building material that we use for our house’s foundations, roofs and roofing materials do have a lifespan. If you’re going to choose the right material for your roof replacement and installation, then it’s best to do some research first.
But before we get into what are some of the average lifespans of the most used roofing materials in the market, we have to first consider certain factors. In the long-run, having good materials might save you money, but planning is also crucial in maintaining a good home.
We have to keep in mind that there will be natural and made factors that we need to weigh-in. Having the right materials for certain conditions can definitely help you lengthen the lifespan of your roof.
Not everyone will have the same budget for their roof. In most cases, homeowners in the United States will only use the most common materials. Before making any final decisions on what roofing material you’ll be using, it’s best to weigh-in on the cost. On average, a whole roof will cost you around $4500 to $7000 dollars, depending on the roofing material used.
An average area of a roof in the United States is around 1700 square foot, and if you’re using materials like metal roofing, then the rate can become higher. If you’re in doubt with the prices of the materials, you can always ask your roofing specialist to crunch in the numbers for you for your roof’s area.
Another factor that we have to take into account is the climate of the area throughout the four seasons. In the southern parts of the United States, the climate is hotter and drier while the climate in the northern parts tends to be colder and wetter. Homeowners have to keep this in mind when looking for the right roofing material.
Moreover, certain architectural styles work better in specific climates; it’s best to consider this when choosing the right roofing material for a certain design.
Now, each roofing material has its own lifespan. The general rule-of-thumb when looking for roofing materials is the pricier the roofing material, the more durable it is. This does not necessarily hold true to all materials, but it will give you a good understanding of the product.
In this article, we’ll be enumerating roofing materials that can be commonly found in the market from the one with the most limited lifespan to the one with the longest lifespan.
Asphalt roofing is expected to last around 5 to 10 years. The optimal way of lengthening the lifespan of this roof is to provide protection against the different elements of the weather. It’s also recommended to seal off leaks and holes as soon as possible.
Compared to asphalt rolled roofing, BUR has a lifespan of 20 to 30 years. Regular repairs and inspections can definitely lengthen the lifespan of this roof.
Being one of the most common roofing material in the market, this has a lifespan of 15 to 40 years. The more expensive shingles in the higher end of the spectrum tend to last more than 50 years.
If you’re looking for a more rustic feel for your home, then having wooden shingles is the best way to do that. Having a lifespan of 25 to 30 years, these shingles are ideal for houses in mild climates. It’s best to conduct regular inspections for cracks and holes to maximize the lifespan.
Compared to wooden shingles, the lifespan is expected to be 35 to 40 years. The added thickness to wooden shakes makes it more resistant to the elements of the weather. It’s best to keep a lookout for moss and organic growths for this type of roofing material.
Lastly, metal roofing is highly sought-after for having a lifespan of 30 to 50 years. Not only is this a good choice for houses in colder climates, but it is also almost impervious to leaking and damages from hailstorms. Again, regular maintenance can ensure that your roof is in pristine condition.
Ultimately, the lifespan of your roofing materials will essentially depend on the factors that we have discussed. Regularly maintaining and inspecting your roofs for any damages can also lengthen the lifespan of your roof. Even though you might have an expensive roof, regular maintenance is key in a long-lasting and sturdy roofing Fort Worth.