How Long Will A Asphalt Shingle Roof Last?

Asphalt shingles are among the most popular roofing options. In most cases, you can find shingles made out of asphalt on homes across the country. However, when you install or replace a roof, you are investing in your home and the protection of our largest investment, and you want to make sure the new roof will last a long into the future.

When choosing asphalt shingles, it’s important to do some research first. Depending on where you live and the type of weather your roof is regularly exposed to, asphalt shingles can be expected to last less than 25 years on average.

Asphalt Shingles 101: What You Need to Know

While many people are aware that winter can damage their roof, fewer realize that summer can also cause significant damage. UV light causes roofing materials to fade and discolor, speeding up chemical processes and degrading the roof membrane. During the summer as well as winter, it’s important to keep your roof in good shape. As the weather warms up, your roof has a significant impact on the amount of energy absorbed by your building. A leaking commercial roof allows cold air to escape easily, which causes people to increase their air conditioning usage, thus increasing your electric bill and reducing your bottom line.

Having a light-colored roof can help reduce the amount of heat absorbed by your roof by reflecting some light (which in turn reduces your air conditioning usage in the summer). Light-reflecting roof materials are becoming increasingly popular because they not only stay cooler than darker colors, but also actively avoid absorbing light energy. A cool roof system can help you save money on your air conditioning and cooling systems!

Fiberglass and organic asphalt shingles each have their advantages and drawbacks. Fiberglass shingles, which are manufactured from organic materials such as cellulose, are sturdy but more expensive than fiberglass shingles. Fiberglass shingles are also thicker and coated with asphalt, whereas organic asphalt shingles are lighter and are often used as a subsequent layer of shingles. Fiberglass shingles have a higher fire rating than cellulose shingles, in contrast to cellulose shingles’ superior Fire safety.

However, asphalt shingles can suffer damage from fungal or algae growth once installed in humid regions. Individuals living in moist or humid locations and wanting to replace their asphalt shingles might prefer specially manufactured shingles that are resistant to algae.

3 tab shingles or architectural shingles?

Architectural shingles offer greater durability than standard asphalt shingles in the same way as architectural shingles are three times thicker than standard shingles and therefore form a denser and more sturdy roof. Some architectural shingle warranties extend to 30 years or more. Although warranties vary among manufacturers, they are typically longer.

Although architectural shingles are more costly than three-tab shingles, they are also considered more desirable, and appealing. They are composed of multiple laminated layers that enhance their durability and make them look like more expensive materials like wood, or tile roofs.. The cost of these more appealing designs is not as financially exclusive as the materials they resemble, which allows them to achieve a high-end aesthetic without being costly.

Factors that affect the lifespan of asphalt shingles

#1 – Proper attic ventilation

The most critical aspect of your roof life is whether or not it has been adequately ventilated. If your attic is not adequately ventilated, the trapped hot and cold air will significantly diminish the life of your asphalt roof. The trapped heat will ultimately burn up your roof system, resulting in a full replacement. As a result, any warranty provided by the manufacturer for your roofing materials will be nullified.

#2 – What are the weather conditions like?

Every roof goes through wear and tear from weather throughout its life. The amount of damage your roof suffers from extreme weather in your area determines how fast it wears down. The condition of the weather is beyond your control. However, note that the weather in your region will have an impact on the life of your roof.

#3 – Annual roof maintenance, it’s important!

Regular roof maintenance is critical to catching common roof problems before they become serious. When debris is kept off the roof, off the valleys, and off the gutter line, damage from weather can be reduced or prevented. If you catch a problem early, you’re guaranteed to save yourself a lot of money and headache.

#4 – Did you hire an experienced residential roofing contractor?

It is critical to hire a reputable roofing contractor when you want to invest in asphalt shingle roofing. By having your roof installed properly, you’ll get as close to the lifespan of your roofing materials as possible.

With over 36 years in business as one of the best commercial and residential roofing contractors, and 80 plus industry awards, we know Royalty Roofing is the best contractor for the job. If you’re interested in learning more contact us at (812) 523-8392 or send us a message.