A roof replacement is a big investment in both time and money. Because of that, it’s also something that you want to last a very long time. Unfortunately many roof materials fail after only a decade or so. So, before finalizing any decisions, you’ll want to know about all of your options.
Long-Lasting Asphalt Shingles
Today, asphalt shingles come with warranties that could be considered lifetime. However, these projections are often optimistic, and the shingles may not last as long.
The projection is for installation under perfect conditions, such as no snow, no high winds, constant mild temperatures, and minimal sun exposure. Likely, your roof does not meet these ideal conditions. Thus, you can safely knock five years off the expected lifetime of the shingles. In general, you can expect shingles to only last about 15 to 25 years, meaning you’ll likely have to replace them eventually.
There are some shingles that are made to last longer than average. It’s always smart to purchase the best quality shingles that you can afford if you choose to go with asphalt. It’s also smart to read the warranty fine print. But in general, shingles with a higher lifetime rating are made with superior materials and can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Metal Roofing
A roof replacement could include an entirely new type of roofing material. If you currently have asphalt shingles, you might consider a metal roof. Metal roofs have an average lifetime of 50 years, but they can last much longer if properly cared for. While a metal roof might be more expensive initially, it will last much longer, with far fewer problems.
Metal roofs are pretty standard in rural areas, but if you have an HOA, you might want to check the rules. Homeowners associations often want a uniform look throughout the neighborhood, and metal roofs could be banned. In fact, your HOA rules could specify not only specific roofing materials but also certain colors.
Tiles
There are several different materials used to make roof tiles. Slate, terracotta, and concrete tiles are all hard and durable roofing materials that can last 50 years or more. However, they are not suitable for all roofs. For one thing, they are very heavy, and in regions with a heavy snow load, your tile roof could collapse. Also, if you must walk on the roof to do maintenance, these materials do not always hold up well. They can sometimes crack under pressure. However, if you live in a sunny region, slate, terracotta, or concrete roof tiles could be the answer.
Choose the Right Contractor
You’ll want to entrust your new roof to a licensed, insured, and bonded contractor with many years of experience. Ask to see their portfolio, and also ask for references. Finally, ask their opinion about the best roofing options for your home.
You want to get your new roof right the first time. It’s important to explore all of your options with your roofing contractor.