How long do asphalt shingles last? Whether you’re replacing your roof, inheriting an older roof, or simply exploring roofing materials, you might wonder about the lifespan of asphalt shingles. Tremendously common in American neighborhoods, asphalt shingles use bitumen (more commonly known as asphalt) to protect and waterproof roofs. They’re prized for their beauty, durability, easy installation, and affordability. While asphalt shingles can last a long time, they won’t survive forever.
How Long Do Asphalt Shingles Last?
How long do asphalt shingles last exactly? It’s difficult to say when so many factors influence a shingle’s lifespan: the type of asphalt shingle, the exact asphalt shingle product, how the homeowner cares for that product, the climate of the area, any extreme weather events, etc. According to U.S. News, asphalt shingle/composition roofs last about 20 years. Consumer Reports, on the other hand, puts their lifespan at 30 years or more.
That gives you a general idea of how long you can expect your asphalt shingles to last. If you want your roof to last as long as possible, however, you’ll need to maintain it.
The Importance of Roof Maintenance
Scheduling annual inspections with a licensed roofing professional will help ensure that your roof lasts as long as possible. Your roofer can ensure that you complete required maintenance tasks as needed and catch minor issues before they escalate into major problems. In addition, it’s important to keep an eye on your roof, especially after extreme weather hits. After a storm involving ice, hail, or strong winds, schedule an inspection or look over your roof yourself. If you spot signs of damage, schedule repairs.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Asphalt Shingles
Since we can’t give you an exact expiration date for your roof, you’ll need to keep track of its age and monitor its condition as the years go by. If you start to notice some of the following symptoms, you likely need to replace your roof soon:
- Missing shingles
- Curling or buckling shingles
- Cracked shingles
- Shingles missing granules
- Granules in the gutters
- Dark streaks and stains
- Algae or moss that has lingered on the roof, damaging the shingles
- A leak in the roof
- Sagging roof
- Water damage inside your home
- Rot or decay
If you identify any of these signs of roof damage, don’t freak out! You don’t need to schedule a roof replacement right away. In some cases, the issue can be repaired and the roof can last for many years to come.
As soon as you notice the damage, simply contact a trusted roofer and schedule an inspection. Using his or her experience and expertise, your roofer can recommend a repair or a replacement.
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Are you looking to replace your roof with asphalt shingles? Or perhaps you need to schedule a roof inspection, to ensure your roof is in good condition? If you live in southwest Missouri, contact Taylor-Made Roofing for help. With over 20 years of experience in residential and commercial roofing, Taylor-Made Roofing is a company that you can trust with all of your roofing needs. Our family-owned business offers quality services, a reassuring warranty, and free estimates. For more information, please contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you!