Whether you’re purchasing a new house or looking to do a roof replacement, it is normal to want to know how long your roof will hold up.
Asphalt roof shingles are the most popular roofing material in the country because they are easy to install and they’re also affordable and durable. An asphalt shingle roof has a life expectancy of anywhere between 15-25 years as long as it’s correctly installed and properly ventilated.
Factors that Affect the Longevity of Roof Shingles
Your new roof shingles can only last 15-25 years as long as they’re well taken care of. Here are some factors that affect the life of your asphalt roof:
- The Weather
How long your roof lasts depends on the temperature and weather where you live. If you live in a place that experiences huge variations and shifts in weather e.g. from hot to cold or from moist humidity to dry, then the shingles could weaken and become more brittle as a result. Additionally, living in a place that experiences inclement weather e.g. hurricanes or hail storms, could result in even greater roof damage.
- Poor Attic Ventilation
It may sound odd when you hear that a shingle roof requires proper ventilation, but it’s true. The ventilation we’re referring to here is attic ventilation. If your attic isn’t well ventilated, heat could get trapped and build up, ruining your roof system. Fixing this would require a complete roof replacement.
- Poor Installation
Always use a reputable roofing contractor to install your asphalt shingle roof. You need a contractor with a strong history of carrying out such roofing jobs because they’re likely to know the correct way to install the roof. Ensure that you check the local roofing contractor’s testimonials and references before hiring them to work on your roof.
- The Roof Pitch or Slope
Having a higher roof pitch is much better for your shingles. This is because it would improve drainage as water would simply run off instead of accumulating on the roof, leading to leaks and other kinds of water damage.
- Lack of Proper Maintenance
To get as much service from your roof as possible, you need to perform routine inspection and maintenance. While you can do some jobs such as clearing the gutter yourself, it’s better to get your roof professionally inspected. This way, you have a better chance of catching a problem early before it leads to worse damage.
Take care of your roof and it will give you good service for many years to come. Christian Brothers Roofing is a full-service roofing company with a qualified team of roofers providing roofing services in Georgia. We have been in the roofing business for almost 4 decades and know how to ensure the integrity of your roof. Contact us today for all your roofing needs.