The average lifespan of your roof depends on the type of roofing material you have installed. Shingle roofs tend to have a shorter lifespan than other options, such as tile. The average lifespan of a roof can be affected by the slope of your home, the climate where you live, and the quality of material installed among other things.
HOW LONG DOES A NEW ROOF LAST?
While there are many factors that can affect how long a roof should last, the main one is the material that it’s made out of. The average lifespans of the most common Florida roofing materials are as follows:
3-Tab Shingles – 10-15 years
Architectural Shingles – 15-20 years
Tile – 35-50 years
WHAT FACTORS AFFECT THE LIFESPAN OF A ROOF?
A roof’s lifespan is completely dependent on many different factors. While many are out of your control, there are a few that you can keep in mind when purchasing a house or getting a new roof.
Roof Lifespan Factors You Can Control
Color
Dark colors absorb more heat. In states like Florida where the climate is warm, this becomes a concern. To boost the longevity of your roof, opt for a lighter color if possible. Lighter colors shingles and tiles will absorb less heat and last longer.
The grade of materials for your roof can differ greatly based on affordability. Depending on your budget, it may be better for you to get the better, more expensive shingles or tiles to increase your roof’s lifespan and save money over the long run. Working with a roofing contractor who has a positive reputation can help ensure only top-quality materials are installed on your roof.
Installation
A professional installation of your roof can drastically improve the lifespan of it. A shoddy job may be less expensive upfront, but the cost will add up over time due to repairs and, eventually, an entirely new roof. Make sure you’re working with a trusted roofing contractor for proper installation.
Ventilation
If your attic isn’t ventilated properly, it can lower the lifespan of your roof and drastically increase your energy bills. Contact your local roofing contractor if you aren’t sure your attic is properly ventilated. A properly ventilated attic cuts out mold and moisture build-up.
Nearby Trees
Trees and nearby foliage can drop branches onto your roof. Depending upon how large these branches are it can cause weak points on your roof or cause sizeable damage in need of immediate repair. Trimming and maintaining any trees near your home can protect your roof.
One of the biggest factors affecting the lifespan of your roof is heat from the sun. What does this have to do with the slope of your roof? A flatter pitched roof has more of the surface area being hit from the sun during the day. The higher-pitched the roof, the longer it will typically last. This is because less surface of your roof is consistently hit by the heat of the sun.
Orientation
If the majority of your roof is facing east or west, it will have more time being hit directly and consistently by the sun each day. This causes the lifespan of your roof to lower as your roof weathers heightened heat from the sun compared to a roof facing south or north.
Climate
Florida’s humid, hot, hurricane-prone climate will have an affect on your roof. While there’s virtually nothing that we can do to stop it, it’s worthwhile to point out the fact that Florida’s harsh climate is a serious factor in the lifespan of your roof. It just means that you’ll need to pay even more attention to your roof and really work on maintaining it.
Other Roofing Considerations
Lifespan is important but it isn’t the only thing you should take into account when deciding on a roofing material for your home. You should also pay attention to the following qualities when looking for a roofing material to use on your home:
Energy efficiency
Resistance to hail
Durability
Resistance to hurricanes
Maintenance required
Initial cost
HOA requirements
HOW TO MAKE YOUR ROOF LAST LONGER
Taking proper roof maintenance into account you can help your roof withstand damage and extend its lifetime. This will help you save money long-term with fewer major repairs or complete replacements. Here are some tips for maintaining your roof:
Get a free estimate after harsh weather or a hail storm to see if you need a repair
Is your roof at the end of its life? Contact us for a free estimate to replace it.
Contact Us
FAQ
What’s the best paint?
We use the best paints from Benjamin Moore, Sherwin-Williams and Behr. Applying 2 coats of high quality paint will ensure proper coating that lasts. We use high quality 45-50 year caulk where needed.
Do you offer any type of warranty?
We offer a 1 year warranty for touch-ups. No charge to you.
Do you have proof of insurance?
Yes
Do you require any payment upfront?
No
What will be cleaned up after the job is finished?
After the job is complete we ensure that all the furniture will be placed back in it’s appropriate location. We make sure to vacuum the areas painted to ensure any spackle or dust from sanding is swept up. We make sure your home looks better than when we arrived.
“Francisco is an amazing contractor and his company and crews are just as good. Had to opportunity to experience his work at home in Windermere and the office building in Altamonte Springs. Both flooring and tile work were fantastic. Helped with selection and got job done quickly.” Frank Motola
“Central Homes Roofing provided us quick, easy and quality roof replacement at a good value. Their staff was easy to work with, took on the burden of dealing with our insurance company and accommodated our desires for roofing material, color and quality. The pointed out needed repairs to the roof decking and fascia and replaced poorer quality materials with higher quality material. They take pride in their work which is something rarely seen these days. Highly recommended!” Bob Ray
“Central Homes was great to work with. The roof looks fantastic. From start to finish there was communication every step of the way. We highly recommend!” Barbara Abramson