Beyond Asphalt: Materials Choices for Purchasing a Roof With a Lifespan of 35 Years or More

Roofs are designed to last, but how long is “a roof’s lifetime”? It all depends on the materials used to construct it. In fact, even with a mid-grade asphalt shingles material, an estimated 50% of roofs are replaced before their time. If you want your roof to last at least 35 years, consider other materials such as standing seam metal, clay tile, or slate. These materials can help save homeowners money in the long run.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofs are becoming more and more popular for a variety of reasons. Metal roofs last for a very long time; some varieties last up to 75 years. They’re also lightweight, meaning that the structure of your home doesn’t have to be reinforced in order to support them. They’re quite reflective, which can help keep your home cool during the summer and lower your energy bills. They can be recycled easily, so they’re a sustainable option all around. On the other hand, metal roofs do tend to be expensive upfront. Metal roofs also tend to make noise when it rains or hails heavily, which could be a drawback if you live in an area that gets particularly heavy precipitation or lots of hailstorms.

Slate Roofing

Slate roofing has a long history of durability and effectiveness. Asphalt roofs are typically chosen because they are so affordable and have a relatively long lifespan, but this material does not last as long as slate. If you want to purchase a roof with a lifespan of 35 years or more, slate roofing is one of the best options. It is made from natural stone and can be found in colors such as black, gray, purple, green, and red. Slate roofs are a very popular choice in historic districts where owners want to preserve the look of their homes. It is also one of the most expensive materials on the market today but can easily be repaired or replaced when needed.

Tile Roofing

Tile roofing can be made from a variety of materials, including clay and concrete. The tiles themselves are flat and rectangular, but they are designed to overlap each other in such a way that they create a series of ridges along the roof. Tile roofs are popular in climates with low humidity and relatively little rainfall, as their installation makes it possible for water to slide off the roof without the need for gutters. Tile roofs are one of the most environmentally friendly choices on the market, as they do not require any chemicals or petroleum products in their construction. They also offer excellent protection against heat, which is why they were so popular during earlier centuries when homes were heated solely by fireplaces. The tiles themselves are quite heavy, so tile roofs must be installed on homes with strong trusses that can support them. So long as your home is built properly, though, a tile roof can last for over 100 years and add value to your home.

Concrete Roofing

Concrete roofing is one of the most common types of roofing in the world. It is not a new material, having been used for centuries across many cultures. However, it has recently started to gain popularity in the United States as an environmentally friendly alternative to asphalt shingles, which is currently the most popular roofing material in the country. Concrete roofs are typically made out of a mix of sand, cement, and water, with other additives like fly ash or lime added for additional strength and durability. The composition of these ingredients varies depending on the manufacturer, but most manufacturers use similar ratios to produce durable and long-lasting concrete roofs that can last up to 50 years without needing major repairs or replacements.

Concrete roofs have many benefits over asphalt shingles, including being less expensive over time due to their much longer lifespan, which saves money on future repairs or replacements. They’re also fire-resistant, so they won’t burn down when exposed to flames like an asphalt shingle would; this makes them safer for homes located near areas where wildfires are common, like California or Colorado’s Rocky Mountains region, where forest fires are prevalent during certain parts of each year.

Wood Shingle and Shake

Wood shingle and shake roofs have been a classic choice for centuries. Even in the contemporary world, they can be attractive, durable, and long-lasting. When properly installed and maintained, they can last for 30 years or more. The natural materials are made of wood, which is harvested from trees that are grown on renewable resources farms in the United States. Wood roofs provide excellent insulation and noise reduction, as well as a beautiful appearance.

One major consideration to keep in mind with wood shingle or shake roofs is that they are highly flammable. While they typically do not catch fire unless exposed to an intense heat source like a lightning strike or a massive brushfire, they can sustain significant damage from even a small fire nearby and may need to be replaced entirely if sparks or embers come in contact with the shingles or shakes.

A roof is built to last for decades, but the longevity of materials can vary widely. A lifespan of 35 years or more may be possible with proper maintenance and material selection. Proper construction and material selection are the most important factors in adding years to the life of a roof.