If you’re ready to replace the roof on your home, you want to make sure that you find the right materials. Assuming that you don’t want to go through this process again anytime soon, you’ll likely want something that will last for as long as possible.
However, when considering the best materials for your roof, longevity should only be one aspect. Other elements of roof installation can include:
Appearance – how will the material look when it’s on your home? Will it add to the curb appeal or make it look odd and uninviting? Cost – for most people, the price of a material is the deciding factor, which doesn’t always mean it will last the longest.
Size of the Roof – although the cost per shingle may be relatively cheap, you have to consider how much square footage is necessary.
Installation – putting up a new roof is a time-consuming and laborious process. Not only do you have to remove the old shingles, but you have to add new underlayers and flashing to ensure that it won’t leak or cause problems down the road.
So, with all of these elements in mind, which roofing material will last the longest? According to the National Association of Home Builders, slate is by far the best of the best, with an average life expectancy of over 150 years.
Unfortunately, as reliable as slate may be for your roof, it’s usually prohibitively expensive for most homeowners. Not only that but the next best materials – concrete and clay – are also pretty pricey. Not only that, but the weight of these materials also means that installation can be more
complicated since you need extra supports and braces as well.
That being said, if money is no object, we highly recommend getting a slate roof. Not only will it add a classic vibe to your property, but you won’t have to worry about replacing it for the rest of your life. In fact, your children may not have to think about it either, assuming that you’re passing on the house to them.
However, for the rest of us, because the expense of a new roof is such a significant factor, let’s look at the longest lasting materials that won’t cost an arm and a leg.
Asphalt Shingles
This is the most popular material used in the United States, mostly because it’s also the cheapest. Life expectancy for asphalt shingles is maxed out at 20 years, so you will likely have to do another roof replacement before moving or selling your home. If you want to add 10 years,
get architectural asphalt instead.
Wood Shingles
The appearance of wood on your home gives a distinct vibe, which may or may not be a good thing. For the most part, wood shingles or shakes will last about 30 years, assuming that you inspect and maintain them for the duration.
Metal Roofing
If you’re okay with hearing rain more loudly, as well as losing some of your insulation, then metal roofs will last up to 80 years.
