JDB CONSTRUCTION & ROOFING

Chattanooga, TN

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How Long Does a Shingle Roof Last?

Shingle roofs are a popular choice for residential homes due to their affordability and ease of installation. However, like any roofing material, shingle roofs will eventually need to be replaced. The question is, how long can you expect your shingle roof to last?

The lifespan of a shingle roof can vary depending on a number of factors, including the quality of the shingles, the climate in which you live, and the level of maintenance that the roof receives.

How Long Does a Shingle Roof Last?

How Long Does a Shingle Roof Last?

As the most popular roof shingle type and cost-effective for homeowners, asphalt shingles come in a variety of styles and colors. But how long does a shingle roof last? Asphalt shingles can last 15 to 30 years, depending on the installation, maintenance & weather.

Higher-Quality Shingles Can Last Up to 50 Years

Higher-quality shingles, such as those made from fiberglass or organic materials, can last up to 50 years.

Asphalt shingles provide reliable, affordable, and beautiful roofing covering. Fiberglass and organic are two types of base materials used to make asphalt shingles, too.

Shingles with fiberglass have a base layer of glass fiber reinforcing mat. The mat is then coated with asphalt containing mineral fillers to make it waterproof. Such shingles resist fire better than those with organic/paper and mats.

Organic shingles are made with a base mat of organic materials such as waste paper, cellulose, and wood fiber. This is saturated with asphalt to make it waterproof.

What Are the Reasons That Can Damage Your Shingle Roof?

Dirty roof with gutter with leaves requiring cleaning

One of the major reasons that will reduce the lifespan of your shingle roof is the type of shingles and climate that the roof is exposed to.

Also, the installation process can impact the lifespan of your roof. What happens is that improper installation can cause shingles to buckle or warp, which can lead to premature deterioration.

Other factors that reduce the lifespan of your roof are:

  • Winter and humidity: Moisture can penetrate the roof deck and eventually compromise the structural integrity of the house.
  • Ultraviolet rays: The sun’s rays can cause shingles to break or crack over time.
  • Nearby trees: Strong winds can cause overhanging branches to scrape off the roofing material.
  • Lack of cleaning and maintenance is detrimental for the lifespan of your roof.

What Type of Issues You Can Find with a Roof Inspection?

Professional Roofer with Hammer Repairing Asphalt Shingle Roof

This important area of your house is sometimes abandoned. And it is probably because you don’t notice what occurs up there. That’s why we recommend regular inspections, at least twice a year, to know if your roof has hidden problems. 

Higher quality shingles and proper maintenance can extend the life of your roof, while improper installation and extreme weather can shorten it. If you’re unsure about the age or condition of your shingle roof, it’s always best to have it inspected by a professional.

In an inspection, you can find:

  • Missing shingles
  • Sagging
  • Mold or rot
  • Loose, cracked, or damaged shingles
  • Holes or dark spots
  • Signs of water damage or leaking

By hiring roofers to make proper checkups, you can catch small problems before they escalate. The importance of constantly taking care of your roof is that a small roof problem evolves in such a short time. So, it’s better to pay for a small adjustment and repairs than to deal with a roof catastrophe, extensive damage, and expensive roof replacement.

When You Should Replace Your Shingles?

When You Should Replace Your Shingles?

As you know the roof is vital for the protection of your belongings and loved ones. So, you should be aware of when to replace it (if needed).

If you’re not sure how old your shingle roof is or how long it is expected to last, there are a few signs that can indicate that it’s time for a replacement. These signs include:

  • Curling or buckling shingles
  • Missing or cracked shingles
  • Granules in gutters or downspouts
  • Leaks or water damage in your attic or ceilings

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to have your roof inspected by a professional to determine if a replacement is necessary.

Know About the Lifespan of Other Roofing Materials:

Metal Roofs Last Up to 70 Years

The underlying condition and structure should last the lifespan of your house. Depending on the materials used you will need a replacement.

We can recommend in general, a replacement program based on the material used:

  • Flat roofs last between 20 to 40 years
  • Tile roofs last 50 years
  • Metal roofs last up to 70 years
  • Slate roofs can last more than 100 years

If your roof is approaching or exceeding that age, it’s probably time to start thinking about a replacement. Even if your roof looks okay from the outside, there may be underlying issues that only a professional roofer can detect.

So, we recommend you always have your roof inspected by a professional if it’s approaching its lifespan. And depending on what your roofer tells you; you can plan its repair or replacement.

Asphalt Shingles Are Worth the Investment

The top advantage of shingles over other roofing materials is that they still offer high performance for a lower price. Also, asphalt shingles are the most cost-effective roofing materials upfront, and they still last long enough to provide the most value over the long term.

JDB Construction & Roofing installs, repairs, and replaces roofing shingles in Chattanooga, Harrison, TN, Soddy-Daisy, TN, Dunlap, TN, and LaFayette, GA. Call us if you need our help!

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