The age of your roof is a good indicator of whether it’s time for a roof replacement. Whether you’re in the market for a new home or intend to stay in your present one, you’re definitely aware of the state of your roof. However, it can be difficult for homeowners to determine when it is time to repair their roofs.  Our Roofing Contractor Halifax team has broken down the five main types of roofs (roofing products), what can affect the longevity of the roof, how long each type of roof lasts, and what indications to watch for when your roof might need to be replaced.

What factors impact how long your roof lasts?

Looking to get a better idea of what factors could impact the life span of your residential roof? This list will give you much more insight.

Age

This should go without saying, but the older the average roof is, the more likely you will be looking at the need for roof repair or replacement. While you may be smitten by that remodeled historical home with the low asking price, do yourself a favor and inquire about roof inspections before making a purchase.

If you suspect your roof is nearing the end of its useful life, contact your roofing provider to see what may be done to safely extend its life. Even if you have a new home with a brand spanking new roof, don’t ignore it over time, or you may find yourself having to hire roofing professionals to replace it much sooner than you anticipated. 

Materials Used

The average lifespan of various roofing materials varies. Asphalt shingles will last 15 to 18 years with normal roof maintenance. Laminate roof shingles do a little better, lasting an average of 24 to 30 years.
Wood cedar shingles and as well as metal last a long time (30 to 40 years – 30 to 45 years), although clay-slate tiles can last up to 50 years when put in place by a roofing professional.  

Heat

Everyone often speaks about how Canada can get really cold in the winter, but we rarely speak about how hot it can get in during the summer months. Dark roofs are particularly susceptible to collecting too much heat, resulting in cracking and melting, as well as other issues connected with a vulnerable roof component.

Humidity

A roof’s deadliest enemy is humidity. Don’t be shocked if your roof’s average lifespan doesn’t meet the expectations of what’s listed in the official description in locations prone to heavy precipitation, such as hail, sleet, and snow. Winter may be very destructive, especially when temperatures swing between above zero and freezing. Ice dams can form as a result of freeze-thaw cycles, causing a slew of roof-related issues. 

Poor ventilation

A roof is more than just the quality of the shingles or anything. Proper ventilation is critical for preventing ice dams on the roof throughout the winter because it keeps air moving and your roof cool. In the summer, ventilation keeps your roof from becoming too hot, eliminating the need to lower the thermostat. 

How Do You Know If You Need a New Roof?

The Benefits of Investing in a Long-Lasting Roof. Using this guide to get started, repairing or replacing your roof can be expensive, so it’s a good idea for you to know when you would be in need to replace it and how long your type of roof will last in general as a homeowner.

If you are buying or building a new home, it is possibly even more crucial to consider how long certain common types of roofing materials and how long do shingles last will affect how long this kind of investment can last. 

RELATED: 5 Signs It’s Time for A New Roof Installation in Halifax

What’s more, there is the resale value to consider.

According to Restorebuilders, Even if you plan on staying in that home for a long time, determining the current state of the roof, how long your roof will last and what can be expected from the type of roofing materials used, the climate in your region, and other idiosyncrasies of your property and particular location is an important aspect to consider before you buy. 

How Long Does a Shingle Roof Last?

How-Long-Does-a-Shingle-Roof-Last

Asphalt Shingle Roofs last 15 to 30 years.

How long do asphalt shingles last exactly? Because they’re economical (averaging $70 – $150 per square foot) and come with guarantees of up to 25 years, the most prevalent type of roofing material marketed today is asphalt shingles. They give a permanent layer of protection against UV rays, heavy rain, and wind, and are made up of a variety of substances such as organic materials and cement fibers. A layer of black asphalt on the bottom of the shingles gets sticky in the heat of the sun and seals everything in place, forming a watertight seal (helps prevent roof leaks). For those on lower budgets, an asphalt shingled roof provides great value as it relates to roof materials, roof structure, and implementation.

How Long Does a Wood Shingle Roof Last?

How Long Does a Wood Shingle Roof Last

A wooden shingle roof can last up to 30 years but requires annual upkeep.

Because it is rot- and insect-resistant, cedar roofing is the chosen material for wood shingles (also known as “cedar shakes” / “shake roofs” / “premium shingles” / “wood roofs”). Wood shingles complement any home, deteriorating to a mellow silvery grey over time, but they’re especially well-suited to cottage-style homes. It’s not uncommon to encounter a few bent or split shingles because wood is a natural product. A wood shingle roof needs to be inspected at least once a year (regular roof maintenance), and any split shingles should be replaced as soon as possible. A wood shingle roof costs $250 to $600 per square foot and comes with warranties up to 30 years in some instances with particular roofing companies.

How Long Does Clay Tile Roofing System Last?

How Long Does a Clay Tile Roof Last

A Clay tile roof – last on average 50 years or longer.

Clay tiles come in a variety of earthy colors, but they’re most recognized for their strong terracotta tones. A clay tile roof will cost between $600 and $800 per square foot, but you won’t need to replace it anytime soon. The long-lasting, low-maintenance tiles have warranties ranging from 30 years to a lifetime. The Average lifespans of these types of roofs can’t be beaten!

How Long Does a Metal Roof Last?

How Long Does a Metal Roof Last

Metal roofs are attractive, durable, and can last up to 70 years.

A metal roofing option can cost anything from $115 per square for standing-seam aluminum roofing (affordable metal roofing) or steel panels to $900 per square for stone-coated steel tiles and standing-seam copper panels. This will obviously depend on the type of metal being used in the construction. Thickness matters as well when talking about metal roofing; the thicker the gauge (the lower the number), the far more durable the roof. Thinner metals (26 to 29 gauge) with a lifespan of 20 to 25 years are available at a lower price point. Because of its ability to send ice and now sliding down the roof, high-end metal roofing is popular in northern locations, and it’s sturdy enough to have a life expectancy of 50 years or more.

RELATED:How Long Does a Metal Roof Last?

How Long Does a Slate Tile Roof Last?

How Long Does a Slate Tile Roof Last

A slate tile roof last – a century or longer.

Slate is a fine-grained natural metamorphic stone that is ideal for cutting into homogeneous roofing tiles. Slate roofs are a costly alternative, ranging from $600 to $1,500 per square foot, but they can withstand almost anything Mother Nature throws at them (save perhaps areas that are hurricane prone), keeping their structural integrity and stunning beauty. Manufacturers of slate tiles provide guarantees ranging from fifty years to a lifetime, and if the slate tile breaks, it may be simply replaced. Aside from the cost, the major disadvantage of slate tile roofs is their weight. Because the standard roof framework is insufficient to support these large tiles, the rafters on the roof must be strengthened before they can be fitted. 

FAQS

What Is The Life Expectancy Of 3 Tab Shingles?

3 tab shingles are typically the most common type of shingle used on sloped roofs because they are very inexpensive, commonly accessible in most places, and may last for 10 to 20 years.

If you’re considering a 3 tab shingle roof, keep in mind that they perform better in more temperate climates like the east coast, so if you live in or are buying property in an area with very cold winters or is prone to major storms or blizzards (major weather events), you might want to consider other options. 

How long does a typical shingle roof last in Halifax?

You may save a lot of unneeded maintenance costs if you know when you want the roof to change and help you with the budget if you need your next roof replacement. Since the roof lifespan of a standard shingle roof is based on multiple elements, each of these aspects has been broken down so that you may examine the state of your current roof. 

Can You Make Your New Roof Installations Last Longer?

Only part of the puzzle is the choice of the correct roofing material. If you want to survive the weather in Nova Scotia for your roof, then include other fittings as well. For various cost-effective solutions, you might visit a roofing service provider. The isolation, gutter, and proper maintenance services are included in your selections. All these ideas can extend the life of your beautiful roof. Hiring a professional roofing contractor, and undergoing regular roof maintenance

Quality Roof Installation in Halifax, NS

If you’re in the process of determining your next roofing project, you should speak to professional roofing contractors in Halifax A roofing specialist can easily go over the different roof types, discuss what would be best for certain weather conditions, go over the key factors in detail about the project. Contact us today for a 100% free quote.

RELATED: Metal Roofing Nova Scotia – Our Guide

Disclaimer:  This article intends to offer general knowledge on this topic.  While every caution has been taken to provide accurate information, it does not intend as professional advice.  Please consult with an industry professional in your area to obtain proper advice based on your unique circumstances.  Elite Roofing Halifax and its parent company will not be held liable in any way should you suffer any loss/damage because of the information in this blog.