7 Factors Affecting The Lifespan Of Your Roof

Your roof is the most robust structure of your home. Most roofs can last for several years, some more than others, depending upon the material. However, the longevity of your roof is also affected by several controllable and uncontrollable factors. Understanding how these factors affect your roof will help you keep your roof functioning at its best for an extended period.

Here’s everything you need to know about various factors that affect the lifespan of your roof.

Material

The biggest factor affecting the lifespan of the roof is the roofing material. There are several materials you can use for your roof. The most common ones include:

• Asphalt shingles: As asphalt is cost-effective, it is a commonly used roofing material in the United States. It can last for up to 50 years if properly maintained.
• Wood shingles: Wooden shingles have the lowest lifespan among most materials, with about 20 years of life.
• Slate Shingles: Slate shingles are among the most durable roofing materials and can last for as long as 100 years with proper installation and maintenance.
• Metal shingles: Metal shingles also have a high life expectancy of over 70 years. However, most owners don’t prefer them as they make a lot of noise.

Weather

Another crucial factor that can affect the lifespan of your roof is the weather in your location. Extreme weather conditions such as heavy storms, heatwaves, and frost can deteriorate the life of your roof significantly. You should always consider the weather before choosing your roofing material. If your roof is damaged due to a major weather event, ensure you get it inspected and repaired without delay. 

Installation

The installation process of your roof plays a vital role in maintaining its life. Poor workmanship is among the most common reasons for early damage and replacement of your roof.

Slope

The slope or pitch of the roof determines how easily it can shed water and snow during the storm. Lower sloped roofs take longer to shed moisture after rain and are damaged more easily. The correct slope helps your roof prevent any waterlogging. The steepness of your pitch is also affected by the weather in your area.

Maintenance

No matter which material you choose or how good the weather is in your location, poor maintenance can significantly cut off the years from your roof’s life. You should get your roof inspected at regular intervals to identify any underlying damage. Do not wait for the problem to worsen before fixing it.

Underlayment

Underlayment is the protective layer that prevents leaks and damage to your roofing shingles. It also provides the additional support that your roof needs. Therefore, proper underlayment plays a vital role in enhancing the lifespan of your roof.

Age

Every roofing material has an expiration date. With proper maintenance and care, you may make your roof last for a few more years. However, you will have to replace it eventually once the expiration date arrives.

About Christopher Home Improvement 

If you are looking for a reputable and professional roofing repair contractor to install and maintain your roof, Christopher Home Improvement should be your one-stop destination. We have served the residents and businesses in Connecticut and Rhode Island for over 16 years. Call us at 860-381-9336 or fill our contact form to get free roofing, siding, gutter, or home window installation and repair ​estimate.