Asphalt remains the most popular roofing material due to its affordability, customization options, low maintenance, and durability. But how long do asphalt roofing systems last?
Proper installation, adequate ventilation, and timely maintenance impact the lifespan of your asphalt roof, so factor them into the equation when you are calculating when to replace your current roof.
Read on to learn what to expect out of your asphalt roof when it comes to longevity.
What Impacts the Lifespan of Popular Asphalt Roofing Shingles?
1. Materials
Owens Corning’s Duration and Duration Designer series provides valuable features that help promote longevity. Their SureNail technology and Tru-Bond sealant work together to keep asphalt shingles in place when harsh weather impacts the Twin Cities area. Their StreakGuard technology safeguards your roof from the unsightly dark streaks algae can create. Protective granules enhance impact resistance and protect your roof from UV damage.
2. Installation
Choose a reputable roofing contractor (like us!) to install your new asphalt shingles, and your roof’s lifespan will reflect your good choice. Look for a company with great reviews, a stellar reputation locally, and with attentive communication from contract to installation. Ask your potential roofer for a few addresses of properties you can take a look at with recent roof replacements.
3. Maintenance
Once your new roof is installed, it is important to maintain it regularly in order to get the maximum number of years out of it. You can do a visual inspection each spring, fall, and after any major storms. Grab a pair of binoculars and step across the street to look carefully at your roof. If you see missing shingles, lots of granule loss, or cracked shingles, call a contractor and have it professionally inspected. If roof shingles need to be replaced, do it promptly to avoid your roof’s enemy: water intrusion. Help prevent roof leaks, rot, and mold by staying on top of your roof’s needs over the years.
4. Warranty
Companies like Owens Corning offer warranty coverage on workmanship when the roofing is installed by one of their Platinum Preferred Contractors. Ask about extended warranties to get coverage on labor and materials, ensuring your new roof is well protected. And consider the value of a transferable warranty to give an incentive to homebuyers when it is time for you to sell. Keep in mind you may need to let the manufacturer know in writing within 60 days if you want your roof warranty to transfer to the next homeowner.
5. Performance
Asphalt roofing materials are designed to work together and deliver premium performance when they are made by the same manufacturer. GAF offers a complete roofing system: the GAF Lifetime Roofing System. It includes their popular Timberline shingles, Deck Armor roof deck paper, attic ventilation, WeatherWatch leak barrier, starter strip shingles (for eaves), and ridge cap shingles to cover attic vents.
5. Ventilation
Your roof needs proper ventilation in order to achieve its full lifespan. Excess moisture makes shingles curl or crack. And when attic space is under-ventilated, mold may grow. The right ventilation facilitates air circulation, allowing your roof to breathe. Ventilation in your attic is vital as it helps reduce moisture and heat buildup, which can otherwise shorten the roof’s service life.
6. Weather
Asphalt roofing has the tough job of protecting your house 24/7. The extreme temperatures, snow, and ice we experience in the Twin Cities can negatively impact the longevity of your roof.
The Bottom Line on Your Roof’s Lifespan
Typical Lifespan of Asphalt Roofing
While some roofs may start to show signs of aging at 15 years, most reputable brands of asphalt roofing systems last between 20 and 25 years when they are installed correctly, and some can even last up to 30 or more years.
Top Asphalt Roofing You Can Trust
Premium roofing companies like Owens Corning, GAR, IKO, and CertainTeed deliver reliable roofing systems with a track record of longevity.
Replace Your Twin Cities Roof with Confidence
At Beissel Window & Siding, our family-owned and operated company installs roofing with detailed care and unmatched integrity—and we have been doing it for over 70 years! We are Owens Corning Preferred Plus installers, and our proven expertise in roofing gives homeowners confidence in their investment for years to come. Take a moment to learn more about our roof replacement services.
