Having some form of protection on your roof increases its lifespan. However, it’s no news that you do not replace a house’s roofing until after a few decades.
Asphalt shingles are the preferable type of roofing because they’re more affordable.
Knowing how long asphalt shingles last may determine if you will install them. Thus, it’s crucial to discover how long an asphalt shingles roof will last.
Asphalt shingles may last around 25- 30 years if the roofer installs them properly. During this period, some catalytic factors might affect the roofing that, accelerates or retards the degradation process. While the shingles may last for thirty years, sometimes it doesn’t last that long.
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How Long Does Asphalt Shingles Last?
Several factors determine how long your asphalt roofing may last.
#1. Warranty
Asphalt shingles’ warranty period depends on the particular brand you purchase. Although, their general warranty period is about twenty years.
You may not experience any problems that require replacing the roof during this time, even if there is a storm.
Each product comes with a warranty period the manufacturer estimates which the product is to last. However, this value is just an approximation as the product may even wear out before time in some cases.
#2. Life Span
The average lifespan of asphalt shingles roofs is about 25- 30 years; this is more than enough time for you to invest in new roofing and installment.
On the other hand, the least asphalt roofs might be in great shape for over thirty years.
There are three types of asphalt shingles roofs;
- Luxury asphalt shingles
- Dimensional asphalt shingles
- 3-tab asphalt shingles
Each of this type of shingle has its lifespan. But, of course, even the luxury shingles do not last more than forty years.
#3. Weather Conditions
Unfavorable weather conditions damage your roofing before its warranty expires. If you live in a city that experiences harsh climates, your roofing may not last long.
Snow, hail, and heavy rainfall do not go without leaving deposits behind. Therefore, the roof depleting faster is inevitable when you do not observe routine maintenance.
Additionally, the occasional cleaning of debris and dirt from the roof plays a vital role in prolonging the lifespan of the asphalt roof.
#4. Artistry
One of the reasons why any roofing may not last is when the workman fails to install it properly. For example, the warranty of a roofing shingle might not matter if the workman doesn’t install it correctly.
Therefore, to maximize the lifespan or warranty of any roofing material, you must be sure that the roofers did a good job.
How Often Should You Replace an Asphalt Shingle Roof?
You must replace an asphalt shingle roof on or before its lifespan expires 25 years after its installment. Even though the asphalt shingles vary, the overall lifespan is not above 40 years.Â
So, to save cost and manage your worn roofing, do not exceed this warranty period. But on the other hand, metal roofs can last for up to 70 years under favorable conditions.
How Do You Know When To Replace an Asphalt Roof?
There are various ways to know when your asphalt roof needs replacement.
#1. When It Begins To Curl
The first thing to notice about a worn asphalt shingle is when it starts curling. Curling is a process where the shingle tablets begin to detach from the roof felt and the rest of the roofing.
This process usually begins if the sheets are worn from unfavorable weather conditions or if it exceeds their warranty period.
#2. When It Starts To Remove
Asphalt shingles will only remove if they have begun cracking. Of course, cracking is the next stage after the tablets begin to curl.
So, when you notice that the tablets have begun curling, it cracks and is finally removed. It is quite unsafe because it might fall on someone or something and cause damage.
#3. Granules Spotting
There is usually an extra coating on asphalt shingles known as granules. It protects the tablets from damage that water exposure causes.
However, after a few years, the adhesive bonds attaching the granules to the shingles become so weak that they fall off. Consequently, the particles fall off and onto the floor.
#4. When It Exceeds Its Lifetime
It is no news that the degradation processes that an asphalt shingle undergoes result from expiration. The sad truth is that we may have to fix a roof replacement plan in our schedule as soon as the warranty period is over.
Even if we have no intentions of carrying out the replacement, we are left with no alternatives.
#5. When You Notice Leaks
Although it is improbable, when you notice that your roof is leaking, please make plans to replace it as soon as possible. For example, a leaking roof might result from a crack in the shingle and the roofing underlayment.
However, it would be best if you did not replace the entire roofing. Instead, locate the leakage and replace the shingle in that spot.
On the other hand, you can place a waterproof sealant tape.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace a Roof?
Replacing a roof depends on various factors. The cost of replacing any roof is not an easy task. You must tread carefully.
Nevertheless, it is not impossible. Instead, it is mandatory. Below are the various factors.
#1. The Type Of Roofing
There are many types of roofing made from various materials. The most popular are; metal, asphalt, plastic, etcetera. Each of these sheets is at different prices because of the cost of their materials.
So, if you intend to replace your roofing in the next five years, you should start saving in advance. Roof replacement incurs a lot of expenses when you seek quality.
#2. The Brand
Every company seeks to outdo its competitors by manufacturing seemingly better products. The need to make a profit and be known as the best in the market is the goal of every company.
Consequently, you may purchase the same products at different prices.
#3. Your Preference
Preference might also be a factor in determining the roofing cost as some people are first for luxury and quality. Therefore, the roofing cost depends on the type of roofing they prefer.
For example, unlike metal roofs, premium asphalt shingles are more expensive, although good metal roofs last 70 years.
In this case, one has to focus on how you wish to have your house appear rather than the cost. It is preferable if you don’t mind going overboard with cash for your house’s exterior.
#4. Special Features
Each company promises a new feature that outsmarts the other. Therefore, it is best to purchase the roofing with your preferred feature.
For instance, company A may manufacture shingles with an extra layer of granules while company B might not. Aside from the granules, other special features distinguish the roofing and their cost.
Final Thoughts
Asphalt shingles are the choicest when it comes to roofing, and they can last up to 30 years when you properly install them. However, the shingles’ ability to last longer also depends on the artistry, type, and warranty.
So, it’s best to say that if you need to replace your asphalt shingle roofing, do it within 25- 30 years.
