How Long Do Asphalt Shingles Last?

Most North American homeowners have asphalt-shingle roofs. Because asphalt shingles can last up to 30 years, they are the premier choice.

Asphalt shingles use a combination of fiberglass and asphalt granules to protect your home from extreme weather conditions. If you’re looking to install asphalt shingles to your home and you live in a wind or rain-prone area, consider luxury shingles, as these will give you the most return on your investment.

Check the manufacturer information on each shingle option to see its recommended lifespan. Whatever they recommend, know that real-life impacts, such as rain or hail, will affect this number.

Each variant of asphalt shingles yields a different durability, strength, and lifespan. For example:

• Three-tab shingles: 15-20 Years (Cheapest Option)
• Architectural Shingles: 20-30 Years (Mid-Level Cost)
• Premium/Luxury Shingles: 24-40 Years (High-Level Cost)

Homeowners considering installing asphalt shingles in their homes need to consider certain factors carefully. Maybe it’s the potential for weather damage or low-quality materials. Consider these factors when choosing an asphalt variant:

Quality of Installation

Our professionals at Premier Roofing can guarantee an expert installation job without hiccups. However, this isn’t the case everywhere. You need to be picky about who’s installing your asphalt shingles, as a faulty or low-quality installation is the quickest way to allow damage in.

Local Climate & Weather Conditions

You most likely know if your region is prone to erratic weather. Chances are you’ve been trying to combat rain, snow, and high winds. If this is the case, you need to carefully consider the impact your local climate may have on shingles. Start by prioritizing durability; aesthetic choices may need to come second. Luxury or impact-specific shingles can generally withstand turbulent weather conditions.

Type & Quality of Materials

With us, there’s no need to worry about quality. All roofing materials used come from leading manufacturers. So, it comes down to the type of shingles you choose. Low-durability shingles installed in areas with unpredictable weather will surely crumble on impact. Meanwhile, durable, high-quality shingles will shine for years in any climate.

Proper Attic Ventilation

When shingles are incorrectly installed, an attic cannot receive proper ventilation. However, one can happen without the other. Your roof stands to receive overwhelming heat when an attic isn’t properly ventilated, as trapped air has nowhere to go. Excessive heat and moisture can cause shingles to curl and break.

Roof Orientation & Sun Exposure

The angle at which your roof is set determines how much sun exposure the shingles will take on. South-facing roofs almost always receive head-on sun exposure, instantly decreasing your shingles’ lifespan. Shaded areas, in this case, the north-facing side, may receive an influx of algae or moss exposure, as less sunlight means more potential for growth.

Regular Maintenance & Inspections

Regular maintenance is the most effective way to prolong asphalt shingles’ lifespan. An expert can tell you exactly where your roof may be experiencing damage and why. Specialists can spot cracks, open areas, weather damage, and irregularities.

Roof damage is pretty easy to spot if you know what to look for. Look for physical evidence first, like ripped-off shingles or stains. This could signal a larger underlying issue that requires a professional inspection. Other common signs include:

• Curling, cracking, or missing shingles
• Granule loss visible in gutters
• Frequent leaks or water damage in the attic
• Age: Roof reaching 15-20 years (for 3-tab shingles) or 20+ years (for dimensional/luxury shingles)

The best way to maximize the lifespan of your shingles is by simply caring for them. Whether through professional help or a high-quality installation, you have the power to choose your roof’s durability.

Here are a few simple maintenance procedures you can implement from the get-go:

• Choose high-quality materials
• Ensure proper ventilation and insulation
• Schedule regular professional inspections
• Perform seasonal maintenance (remove debris, clean gutters)
• Address small repairs before they turn into major issues

It pays to be intentional when it comes to roofing. Invest in the service provider, quality, and materials used in your asphalt shingle roof installation, and watch how easy it is to keep it going strong.

Remember, not all asphalt roofs are made equal. Choose the one that fits your time, budget, and climate constraints for the most rewarding service. If you’re looking to install or service your asphalt shingle roof, don’t hesitate to contact us at Premier Roofing.