Your home’s roof is its first line of defense against wind, rain, and extreme weather. It’s also one of the areas of the home that takes the hardest beating, which is why it’s so important to replace your roof on a regular schedule.
The problem, of course, is that a roof replacement can be costly. Across the USA, homeowners pay an average $30,760 to replace their roof. This amount can vary depending on where you’re located and, of course, how much roof you need to be replaced, but with tens of thousands on the line in your future, it’s imperative you follow this guide to reduce costs and extend the lifespan of your humble roof:
How Long Can You Expect Your Roof to Last?
How long your roof can last depends entirely on the materials.
· Asphalt shingles typically have a lifespan between 15 and 30 years.
· Metal roofs can last upwards of 50 years.
· Wood shakes can last up to 40 years.
· Slate can last all the way up to 200 years.
· Clay or concrete tiles can last upwards of 100 years
· Flat or low-slope roofs that use EPDM, TPO, or PVC can last a little over 30 years.
It’s also important to note that some roof materials may even get phased out. In Florida, for example, asphalt shingles may be replaced as the go-to roofing material, as studies show that the higher temperatures and sunlight reduce their lifespan even shorter than the minimum 15 years. In these types of environments, experts say, metal roofs can be a prime alternative as they last longer and can even help you reduce your insurance.
How to Ensure the Longest Lifespan of Your Roof
The easiest way to ensure that your roof lasts is to, one, use the right material for your budget and the environment, and two, use a reputable roofing company that will professionally install or repair your roof the first time:
· Tips for Selecting the Best Cost for Value
Budget is key, here, as while slate can last you a lifetime or two, it also tends to cost the most. This is, of course, on top of the increased weight requirements your roof will need.
Asphalt shingles are, all around, one of the cheapest options, with metal roofs coming in second place for cost. Knowing how the climate around your home will impact the materials, however, is key, as it’s how you’ll spread out the costs the most.
· Repair and Installation Considerations
The other consideration you need to make is how repair can factor into the lifespan of your roof. Asphalt shingle roofs, for example, are incredibly easy to replace when they get cracked or torn. The only caveat is that you need to monitor your roof for these issues long before water damage can weaken your roof. To do this, aim to do an inspection at a minimum once per year during the spring.
Small roof repairs to fix shingles as they occur can be very economical, as one, you’re avoiding the costly repair or replacement, and two, you can use your maintenance habits to keep your insurance costs down.
Top DIY Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Roof Going Strong
There’s a lot that you can do yourself to ensure that your roof works beautifully for its full lifespan. To start, a simple visual inspection can allow you to spot issues before they become full-on leaks in your home. You can also work to avoid rot by making sure to sweep any debris off your roof and to keep your gutters clear.
