Whether you are considering replacing your old roof with a new one or have a flat roof installation, it’s crucial to understand how long it will last. Roofing materials can last for up to 50 years, although some manufacturers only guarantee up to 10 years. Your roof will need flat roof repair over the years to keep it in good condition, but the right choice can help it last for decades. Wood shingles, for example, are insect-resistant but will need periodic maintenance. Metal roofing is a great choice for high winds and heavy rain but is also susceptible to flying debris.
Metal roofs vary in lifespan, and depending on their material, they may last for between ten and fifty years. Copper can last up to 70 years, but is often reserved for accent pieces. Zinc roofs can last for more than 100 years, and are now used extensively in Europe and the U.S., where they tend to be cheaper. And if you want a durable roof, you may want to consider a wood shake roof.
Proper maintenance and TLC are key to ensuring your roof lasts as long as possible. In addition to proper maintenance, a new flat roof replacement requires more TLC than a re-roofing. Whether you live in a humid climate or a hot one, it’s important to check your roof for signs of premature failure. Check for curling or lifting shingles. Look for cracks in soffits and fascia, as these can indicate that moisture is not properly drying out.
Roofing materials have a lifespan, but the length of that life depends on how well they are installed and the environment. Poor installation and environment conditions will shorten your roof’s lifespan. If you’re looking for a low cost, cheap materials won’t break the bank, but they won’t last nearly as long as more expensive ones. And if you’re a commercial property owner, you’ll want to make sure you choose the right material and best local flat roof company for your property.
While asphalt shingles are durable, concrete tile and slate have long-term life spans. Concrete tiles and slate can last 50-100 years if properly maintained. Clay tile and slate, on the other hand, are porous and absorb water. They’re usually not as durable as asphalt shingles, but they can last for hundreds of years. But if you are building in a hot climate, a clay or terracotta tile roof is your best option.
Wooden shingle roofs can last between twenty and thirty years. These types of roofing require yearly cleaning and staining to keep them looking new. The lifespan depends on the type of wood used, but they can withstand hailstorms and other harsh weather conditions for longer. Wood shingles require frequent maintenance. Cedar shakes need to be staining every few years, and wood shingles require yearly cleaning. They also require regular cleaning, but are often worth it.
When choosing a metal roof, consider the gauge of the panels. The lower the gauge, the thicker the panels will be. Typically, homes are built using panels with a 29-gauge rating, but you can choose between two to four-gauge materials. Copper metal roofs are the most expensive and have a 150-year warranty. But they can also be soft, and may expand and contract with the temperature. Aluminum, on the other hand, has excellent corrosion protection and a lower price.