There are different types of roofing materials, including asphalt shingles, metal, wood, clay, and concrete. The type of material that is used plays a role in how long your roof will last before a serious repair or replacement is necessary. This review discusses the different types of roofing materials and which one lasts the longest.
The Different Types Of Roofing Material
It is first helpful to understand the different types of roofing material before revealing which material lasts the longest. The five notable types that we discuss below are asphalt shingles, metal roofs, wood shakes or shingles, clay roofs, and concrete roofs.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles have been one of the most popular types of roofing material for decades. It consists of several layers, including a base mat, a waterproofing layer (made of asphalt), and a third layer of fiberglass with ceramic granules. Asphalt shingles are water-resistant and durable, and they can last for 20 years on average. There are premium grades of asphalt shingles that can last for 50 years.
Metal
According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), metal roofs last between 40 and 80 years. They are not quite as common as asphalt shingles due to the differences in appearances, but they offer unique advantages, including improved durability and longevity.
Clay/Concrete
Clay and concrete roofs are similar in durability and expected to last for 50 years or more. They also provide a unique and stylish design for your home, although the cost of materials and installation is generally higher.
Wood Shakes Or Shingles
Wood shakes (or wood shingles) provide a unique design, but their durability varies based upon the weather conditions of the area. Of course, wood is less water-resistant, so they may not work as well for areas where heavy rainfall is common. With that said, wood roofs typically last between 25 and 30 years.
Which Roofing Material Lasts The Longest?
Although providing a definitive answer to which roofing material lasts the longest is not possible as it depends on the conditions of the home. For example, a home near the ocean and one in the mountains may require different roof types.
However, in general, clay roofs and concrete roofs last longer than other roof types based on average lifespan. In fact, these types of roofing material should last for more than 100 years in many cases. Metal roofs should last for more than 50 years, whereas asphalt shingles and wood roofs typically last less than 50 years.
The Factors That Can Affect the Longevity Of Your Roof
The longevity of your roof to a large degree depends upon where you live, the age and style of your home, the quality of the installation of the roofing material, and the level of care you provide your roof long-term.
Weather Conditions
Weather can greatly affect a roof. If you live in an area where rainfall and storms are common throughout the year, then your roof may wear down faster, especially if you have a wood roof or asphalt shingles.
If you are looking for the longest-lasting roof in more strenuous weather conditions (such as a home that is near the coast), then a metal, clay, concrete, or slate roof is the best choice. If you live in an area where the weather is more predictable, then you should be able to get optimal longevity out of an asphalt shingle or wood shingles/shake roof.
Home Style/Design
The style of your home can also play a role in how long your roof lasts as well. For example, a flat roof, which does not allow for optimal runoff of rainwater and debris, may not last as long as a gable roof or hip roof, which has an optimal slope to minimize the impact weather elements have on your roof. Many Northern Virginia roofing contractors recommend a metal roof for flat roofs, whereas asphalt shingles work well for more traditional-style homes.
The Level Of Care And Maintenance
As is the case with everything in life, the more time and attention you give to maintaining your roof the better it will last over an extended period of time.
You can effortlessly maintain the quality and condition of your roof through regular inspections. If beneficial, your roofing contractor may recommend maintenance (partial roof repair).
The Quality Of The Roofing Installation
It is also important to hire a licensed contractor that has a reputation for installing (and replacing) roofs with high-quality results. This can help lengthen the lifespan of your roofing material and helps ensure you receive the highest-quality roofing material possible.
Contact The Roofing Pros At Adelphia Exteriors
Are you looking for the right roofing material for your roof? If so, call Adelphia Exteriors today for more information and to begin the installation process. Our dedicated team of roofing professionals takes pride in assisting members of our community with their home exterior needs.