WHAT IS THE LONGEST LASTING ROOFING MATERIAL – Family Roofing

CALL OR EMAIL US TODAY FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE – 202-276-5004   FAMILY.ROOFING@YAHOO.COM

 

At Family Roofing, we take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. Our reputation is based on service, safety and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

 

WHAT IS THE LONGEST LASTING ROOFING MATERIAL

If you are considering re-roofing your home, you know that the cost of new roofing material directly correlates to how long your new roof will last.  Keep in mind that the weather conditions in your region make an impact on the life of your roof, as does the building construction and design, the frequency of maintenance, and the quality of the roofing material.

The longest-lasting roofing materials are normally the most durable.  Concrete and slate tiles far outperform natural roofing materials like wood shingles.  Manufactured roofing materials such as aluminum (and other metals) and asphalt roofing shingles have a substantial lifespan, but are not normally as durable as concrete and slate.

This life span estimate takes into account a normal wear of life under normal weather conditions.

Asphalt shingles – Normally, asphalt shingles last about 20 years.  However, high-quality asphalt shingles can last (and have a warranty) up to 50 years.  These high-quality shingles do come at a higher cost, but will more than double the life of your roof.

Architectural asphalt – This version of asphalt shingles tends to last approximately 25-30 years.

Wood shingles and shakes – The normal life span of wood shingles and shakes is 20 years.  However, under normal and moderate weather conditions, they will last much longer.

Metal – Metal roofing is expected to last between 40 and 80 years.  As well, the Metal Roofing Alliance gives a life expectancy of 40 to 60 years.

Slate, concrete and clay tiles – These durable roofing products are rated with a life expectancy of 100 years by the NAHB and NACHI.

Roofing Material Pros and Cons

Just as varied as the costs of these roofing materials, each has its own set of pros and cons.  Asphalt shingles are the most widely used roofing material in the U.S. according to the National Roofing Contractors Association.  These shingles are the least expensive and come in a wide array of colors and styles for virtually any application.

Metal roofing comes in shingles, tiles, and vertical panels.  Although this roofing material weighs about a third of what asphalt shingles weigh; punctures, tears, and pooling water are typical problems.

Wood shakes become wet in the winter months and can warp.  If you choose this option, make sure you purchase pressure-treated shakes for a longer lifespan, and less maintenance and warping.

The main drawback of slate roofing is the weight. A standard slate roof can weigh up to 1,500 pounds per 10’ X 10’ square for 3/8” tiles.

Before choosing your roofing material, make sure you do your homework and consider the pricing, pros and cons, and “look” you want for your roof.