A home’s roofing is a long-term investment that brings curb appeal, peace of mind and added comfort. A roof’s lifespan is affected by material quality, installation, climate, and maintenance. As an experienced Wichita roofing company, Dingers Roofing and Construction has helped thousands of homeowners decide on the best possible roof. Here are our thoughts on the longest-lasting roofing material for a home.
Factors Affecting Roof Lifespan
Material Quality
Durability varies when it comes to roofing materials. For example, 3-tab shingles are less durable than impact-resistant shingles. On average, the most durable roofing materials are tile roofs made from slate, concrete and clay. Metal roofing made from copper, steel and zinc are the next strongest. Rounding out the list are synthetic materials, such as asphalt shingles, which offer a range of durability and impact resistance.
Installation Quality
Poor installation, regardless of the roofing material, can lead to early failure, roof leaks and water damage. In fact, the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) estimates that up to 80% of premature roof failures are the result of installation errors. For example, improper ventilation can rapidly age your roof by trapping heat and moisture in your attic, eventually leading to mold and damage to the roof’s structure. To ensure proper roof installation, research roofing contractors in your area that have proven experience through examples and reviews.
Climate and Weather
Whether it is heavy rain, snow or hail, extreme weather can tear shingles, dent metal and cause roof leaks. Consider choosing roofing materials that last longest in your local climate. If you experience heavy hail throughout the summers, impact resistant shingles are a relatively affordable choice, or upgrade to naturally impact resistant metal roofing. We recommend finding the type of roofing material that best defends against the weather conditions in your area.
Maintenance
Regular roof maintenance and routine inspections can find and prevent small issues like missing shingles from causing leaks and water damage. Proactive roof care like cleaning gutters, trimming branches or simple DIY fixes all add to the lifespan of your roof by preventing smaller issues from becoming large, high-cost repairs.
Average Lifespan of Popular Residential Roofing Materials
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing option for homes in the Wichita area. Known for its affordability and wide availability, asphalt roofing is a great choice for homeowners looking to save on their budget. However, asphalt shingle roofs are often the least durable option available, with a lifespan of 15-30 years. Standard 3-tab shingles will last from 15 to 20 years, while upgraded versions like impact resistant and architectural shingles push closer to 25-30 years.
Metal Roofing
Durable, popular, and energy-efficient, metal roofing has an incredible lifespan. Lasting well over 50 years, a metal roof is an appealing long-term investment for those willing to spend more upfront. The life expectancy of a metal roof depends on the metal used. Copper is the longest-lasting metal roofing material with a lifespan of 60-100 years, but it’s often the most expensive. Zinc comes in second with its lifespan of 50-100 years on average, followed by aluminum and steel, which can both last between 40-70 years.
Slate Roofing
You may not expect it, but slate roofing has the longest lifespan. Slate roofing tiles are incredibly resilient and can last between 50 and 200 years! Not surprisingly, a slate roof replacement is also the most expensive option on the list. Due to its weight and fastening method, a slate roof requires specialized installation, adding to the overall cost. Upfront, slate roofing is expensive, but low lifetime maintenance and replacement will save homeowners money long-term.
Concrete or Clay Tiles
Both concrete and clay tile roofs have similar qualities and looks. Each option provides a naturally beautiful and traditional look with reliable lifespans. Concrete tiles tend to last 50+ years while clay tiles range from 50–100 years. Clay and concrete tiles must be installed on roofs with a pitch of 2:12 or greater, excluding lower sloped roofs. It is also recommended that homeowners avoid concrete and clay roofs in areas that experience frequent hailstorms, to prevent cracked tiles and damage.
Wood Shakes or Shingles
With its rustic, natural charm, wood roofing provides a moderate lifespan of 20-40 years at a price point right above asphalt shingles. Most wood shakes or shingles are made from cedar which is naturally rot and pest resistant, adding to price and installation. Nonetheless, compared to other roofing options, cedar requires consistent maintenance. Routine cleaning, repairs, and professional inspection are recommended because wood shakes are less durable. Fire is also a major concern as wood shakes and shingles are more flammable than other options.
Asphalt Shingles
- Lifespan 15-30 years
- Pros
- Affordable Option
- Cons
- Low Durability
- $3.50-$11 Per Square Foot
Metal Roofing
- Lifespan 40-100 years
- Pros
- Low maintenance
- Cons
- High upfront cost
- $4.50-$40 Per Square Foot
Slate Roofing
- Lifespan 50-200 years
- Pros
- Longest lasting material
- Cons
- High cost and weight
- $7-$30 Per Square Foot
Concrete or Clay Tiles
- Lifespan 50-100 years
- Pros
- Long lasting and durable
- Cons
- Limited Construction
- Concrete $2-$6 Per Square Foot
- Clay $3-$7 Pers Square Foot
Wood Shakes or Shingles
- Lifespan 20-40 years
- Pros
- Affordable and pest resistant
- Cons
- Less durable and prone to fire
- Shingles $4-$9 Per Square Foot
- Shakes $6-$15.50 Per Square Foot
Making the Right Choice for Your Home
Material quality, installation, climate and maintenance all affect the lifespan of your roof. We also encourage homeowners to think of other aspects like budget, aesthetics and local climate when choosing a roofing material. If you are having difficulty pinning down the longest-lasting roofing material for your home, contact Dingers Roofing & Construction for a free consultation and personalized suggestions.