How Long Does an Asphalt Shingle Roof Last?

Although it would be nice if they did, roofs don’t last forever. Like any part of your home, they, too, wear out after a while. For an asphalt shingle roof, retirement age rolls around at anywhere from 15 to 30 years. Of course, the exact lifespan hinges on a few factors, such as the type of shingle, where you live, and the quality of the installers’ workmanship. 

Understanding Asphalt Shingle Roofs

An asphalt shingle roof consists of a handful of materials, each layered atop the next. The base layer is typically constructed from fiberglass, a lightweight yet durable material made of ultra-thin glass fibers bound with resins and binders. 

The next layer is asphalt. It’s the primary ingredient that gives asphalt shingles their water-resistant quality. The asphalt used for shingles is similar to that of road asphalt, except that it undergoes more processing to achieve a higher degree of durability. It undergoes an “oxidation” process that involves blasting air through the scorching asphalt to increase its viscosity.

Tiny stone granules sit atop the asphalt. This layer consists of hard stones crushed to a specific granular size. Manufacturers can “dye” the stone to achieve different colors, from classic grays to rusty reds.   

Installers use a sealant to attach the shingles together on your roof. This sealant, made of thermally activated asphalt, bonds the shingles together, creating a tight seal. It’s designed to withstand all sorts of inclement weather, from toasty summer sunshine to wind storms.

Factors That Affect the Lifespan of an Asphalt Shingle Roof

The lifespan of any roof, including asphalt shingle roofs, varies based on factors specific to the situation. So, the answer to the question of “How long does an asphalt roof last?” can fluctuate. Factors such as where the roof is installed, what type of shingle is used, and weather conditions affect exactly how long your roof will last. 

Type of Shingle

There are three main types of asphalt shingles: 3-tab, dimensional, and premium. 3-tab shingles are widely available, so they’re a popular pick. These shingles, as the name implies, have three asphalt tabs and one flat layer. They usually last up to 20 years. 

Dimensional shingles, also known as architectural shingles, are the most widely used option of the bunch. These shingles feature a unique, three-dimensional appearance and are incredibly durable. With proper installation and maintenance, they can last 25 to 30 years. 

The last of the trio, premium shingles, mimics the look of more expensive materials, like slate or cedar shakes. Premium shingles have a higher profile than the flatter appearance of 3-tab shingles, giving the roof more depth. These shingles, a popular pick for high-end homes, usually last between 20 and 30 years.

Workmanship Quality

Low-quality installations of any product rarely last nearly as long as high-quality installations. The same is true for your asphalt shingle roof. The better the workmanship quality, the longer the roof will last. Improper installation methods or poor installation can cause the roof to fail prematurely, requiring a replacement sooner rather than later. 

Given the importance of quality workmanship, it’s important to choose a reputable, experienced roofing contractor to handle your roofing project. This way, you can rest assured knowing that your roof will last as long as possible. Plus, these high-quality roofing contractors usually offer a workmanship warranty, too, so you’ll get extra peace of mind in knowing your project is in good hands. 

Weather Conditions

Some areas have milder climates than others. For example, the southwestern United States experiences scorching sunlight through much of the year. The sweltering temperatures can degrade the roofing shingles faster, so you may find that your Arizona home’s roof doesn’t last quite as long as one in the northern United States. 

Or, suppose you live in a snowy state where hail, snow, and ice are the norm. While the UV rays shining down on your home may not be enough to degrade the roof, the hail, snow, and ice might be. For example, hail can do a number on asphalt shingles, causing rapid granular loss (the shingles will lose their little stone granules). This, too, may mean that your roof doesn’t last quite as long. 

It all depends on where you live and what kind of weather conditions are common in your area. If you’re unsure whether asphalt shingles are a good choice, chat with an experienced roofing contractor in your area. They can help you choose the best roofing material for your home based on your local climate and the specifics of your roof. 

Maintenance 

If you want your roof to hold up as long as possible, it’ll need a bit of upkeep from time to time. Ideally, you should have a knowledgeable roofing contractor take a look at it each year to confirm that it’s in good shape. This way, they can look for any potential problems and catch them before they become more significant and widespread issues. 

Beyond professional inspections, it’s a good idea to take a peek at your roof every season. Look for signs of damage, remove debris, clean the gutters, and remove moss or algae. Take a peek inside your attic, too, as this is usually the first place that leaks show up. If you find anything of note during your inspection, contact a roofing contractor to take a closer look or address the issue as needed. 

Restore Your Roof to Its Former Glory With Glick’s Exteriors

After a while, your asphalt shingle roof may show signs that it’s closing in on the end of its lifespan. You might notice significant leaks in the attic, degraded shingles, or moss that keeps coming back—these can all be signs that it might be time for a new roof. 

When that time rolls around, we’re here to help. At Glick’s Exteriors, we’re here to help you restore your home to its former glory by replacing the roof. Our knowledgeable team is ready to help you navigate your roofing needs, whether you’re dealing with a major leak or many damaged shingles. Contact us today at (610) 810-1290 or complete our online contact form to start with a free quote.