How Long Will My Roof Last


Do you live in an old home? Or maybe you just bought a house? Whatever the case, you may wonder how long your roof will last. Well, this depends on many variables, but the good news is that no matter what material you choose for your roof, it should last you for quite some time.

A two story house

And it’s a good thing. The roof of our home is often one of the most taken-for-granted aspects of the places we reside. Not only does the roof protect us from the elements, but they insulate our homes and make sure that they stay temperate. Sure, little things can happen that you might need to patch up, but for the most part, your home’s roof will keep going strong for a long time.

So, how long are roofs good for? Here we’ll go over everything you need to know about how long you can expect your roof to keep the elements out and the perfect temperatures.

How long your roof lasts will depend on the material that is used. No matter the material, you should feel confident in your roof for at least ten years. Let’s look at the different materials used and the average roof life for each.

Asphalt Shingles (10-50 years)

That’s quite the gap between years, but if your asphalt shingles last closer to 50 years, you’re getting a deal. How can you tell how long do shingle roofs last? That depends on whether they were installed correctly and how well they are maintained. Many asphalt shingle roofs come with 25-year guarantees.

There’s a lot to love about asphalt shingles. They don’t cost a lot, are easy to maintain, and look good. Asphalt shingles can boost the value of your home without breaking the bank to do it.

Clay Tile (50-100 years)

If you want to set and forget it, you can’t go wrong with clay tile. This is the material that will last the longest for your home. As I’m sure you can guess, the downside to clay tile is its cost. However, you are likely looking at a one-time payment, considering that this roofing will probably last longer than you do.

If your chief concern is how long does a roof last on a house, clay tile is the way to go.

Concrete Tile (50+ years)

Concrete tile is another wonderful option for those looking to have something that will last. It is incredibly durable. Even the strongest winds and coldest winters won’t do much to affect your concrete tile roof. However, certain build-ups in wetter climates with concrete tile have an issue. This roof style will improve in drier areas, but even in damper areas, you are looking at extra maintenance for a long stretch of healthy roofing.

Metal (70+ years)

This is another great option for those who want something to last a long time. The plus of metal roofing is its durability. Sadly, there are some cons to address. With metal roofing, you truly pay for what you get. Aesthetically, it is not the most pleasing-looking roof on the market. You can spend more to get something great, but how good it looks depends on how much you spend.

Wood Shingles (20-30 years)

This is a mid-level option. Pricewise, wood shingles are not going to break the bank. On the other hand, they don’t last as long as some of your other options and require a bit more maintenance. Out of all the options listed, wood shingles require the most upkeep. However, they look fantastic and aren’t going to bust your wallet. When it comes to value, wood shingles are a surefire bet.

Slate (100+ years)

When it comes to durability, nothing beats slate. There are, however, a few factors to consider. Not only are they expensive because the material itself is expensive, but you might have to reinforce your house to withstand the weight of the roofing.

If you have more questions about roofing materials, contact Jack C. Wilson Roofing Co. today!