How Long Does a Shingle Roof Last?

The roof’s primary purpose is to protect your home but also to enhance its aesthetic value. After exploring many available roof materials on the market, you decided that an asphalt shingle roof is the right roof for your home, and so far, it has served you well. You are happy with your decision, but it’s been some time, so now maybe you’re wondering if it’s time to replace your roof. How long does a shingle roof actually last and how can you know when it’s the right time for a replacement?

We at Fortified Roofing are here to address all your questions. Read on, and you’ll have your answers by the end of this article.

Pros and Cons of Shingle Roofing

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material you’ll find on many homes today, and for good reason. They come in various styles and colors, but all of them are basically fiberglass mats coated with asphalt and granules. This type of roofing material offers excellent protection and durability at an affordable price and compared to some other roof types, is easy to install and maintain. It is also very resistant to all kinds of weather and incredibly versatile, so you can integrate asphalt shingles to complement your home the way that you prefer.

On the other hand, these shingles may not be as durable as, say, metal roofs and they aren’t the most energy-efficient option. You’ll also need to consider when you are going to install them, since asphalt shingles are a bit more challenging to install in very cold weather conditions. 

How Long Does a Shingle Roof Last, and How Can You Make Your Roof Last Longer?

You can expect your shingle roof to last around 30 years on average. That, of course, will depend on several factors, the most important one being the quality of the materials used, the quality of the installation procedure, and the climate you live in. However, regular maintenance and inspections can prolong the estimated lifespan.  

It is essential to regularly inspect your roof to catch any problems early and repair them before severe damage and/or leaking occurs. If you need roof maintenance tips on how to make roofs last as long as possible, we’ve got you covered.

Here are the three types of asphalt shingles and how long they generally last: 

3-tab shingles

They are the cheapest option when it comes to asphalt shingles, but they are also the lowest in quality, lasting around 20 years with proper maintenance. If not maintained, the lifespan can be significantly shorter.

Architectural shingles

Architectural shingles come somewhere in between both when it comes to the cost and the quality. Coming at a moderate price, they are more resilient to wind and storms than the ones mentioned above, but they are still quite vulnerable to hail storms. With proper maintenance, they usually last between 20-30 years.

Premium Asphalt Shingles

These shingles have the longest lifespan and highest quality (they are usually triple the density of standard asphalt) but also the highest price when it comes to asphalt shingle materials. They can be damaged by severe hail, but in general, they’re very resilient, making them the best choice for roofing shingles in areas such as Florida or Texas. These shingles can last between 25-40 years, depending on how well you take care of them. 

No matter where you live, every roof will experience wear and tear over time. Extreme weather can make a harsh impact on your roof and determine how long your roof is going to last. While there’s nothing you can do about the weather (unless you’re ready to move), it is important that if you notice signs of damage, such as missing or cracked shingles, you schedule immediate repairs so that you can get the most out of your asphalt roof.

Know When It’s Time to Replace Your Shingle Roof

Sometimes, it’s easy to tell if you need a new roof. Severe damages, leaks, bent, missing, or damaged shingles are a clear sign that you need to do something about your roof. On the other hand, there are also times when you will need to take a closer look to figure out whether you need a roof replacement. That’s why it is crucial to inspect your shingles regularly. Early detection of minor problems, such as damaged shingles, can help prevent them from becoming significant, more expensive issues down the line. 

When it comes to inspections, you can do a visual inspection, but it’s advised to only do it from the ground. Climbing on a roof is never a good idea if you’re not a professional roofer with adequate safety gear. It is best to leave this task to a professional and avoid potential risks or injuries.

If, for example, there was a huge storm last night, it may have caused damage to your roof. So check if there are any cracked, lifted, or missing shingles. Everything mentioned above can leave your home vulnerable to leaks that can cause interior damage to your home. 

Keep in mind that leaks may develop slowly and may not be immediately apparent. The damage will only worsen if not found and fixed in time. 

Maybe you are lucky and you didn’t experience any storm damage–you maintained your roof regularly, but it has been some time since you put those shingles on your roof. 

Maybe you can’t see any visible damage, but our advice is to schedule a professional roof inspection either way. This will let you know how long your roof can endure before it’s time for a replacement.

Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection! Fortified Roofing Is Here To Address All of Your Roofing Needs!

As we’ve mentioned already, shingle roofs can serve you well for up to 30 years. In the end, it’s up to you which material you choose and the regular maintenance you schedule to get the most out of this popular roof. 

Whether you are still determining if it is time for a roof replacement, you need a professional inspection, or simply an extra tip on maintaining your roof; we can help you! 

As an experienced residential roofing contractor in Ewing, NJ, Fortified Roofing will provide the best possible solution for your home based on your preferences. With high-quality roof installation services, you can trust our crew to provide a seamless process from start to finish. 

Don’t wait; contact us today!