The short answer to this question is, it depends …
There are a lot of factors that go into just how long an asphalt roof can last, so in addition to providing some longevity ranges based on asphalt roofing type, let’s also take a look at some of the major factors you’ll want to be aware of before you make any decisions on a new roofing system.
THE AVERAGE LIFESPAN
Looking at the category broadly, asphalt roofing can last anywhere between 15 to 50 years depending on many factors, which we’ll cover shortly. That said, here is an overview of three different types of asphalt roofing, and how long each is expected to last. We’re using GAF asphalt roofing lifespans in our examples here, as they are a very popular choice in Dane County, as well as throughout the country …
Note: Click on a shingle to enlarge.
GAF THREE-TAB SHINGLES
GAF’s entry-level Royal Sovereign line of shingles are the most affordable type of asphalt shingle in the GAF lineup.
Although they’re considered to be a more basic type of shingle, they are still a quality product — typically lasting between 20-25 years.
ARCHITECTURAL SHINGLES
An example of this type of shingle is the GAF Timberline series.
Also referred to as dimensional or laminate shingles, they are thicker and more durable than three-tab shingles — typically lasting between 20-30 years, or even longer.
DESIGNER (PREMIUM) SHINGLES
GAF’s top of the line Camelot II asphalt shingles provide a fantastic look, as well as additional protection.
These high-end shingles typically last 50+ years.
THE FACTORS
These are the major factors you’ll want to take into consideration before choosing your replacement roof and the contractor who’s going to do the work …
PRODUCT QUALITY
This sounds like a no-brainer, and it is, but sometimes homeowners can get caught up in the excitement of a price that’s too good to be true (because it is), and momentarily forget about WHY that price is so low. Product quality is a top indicator of how long your new asphalt roofing is going to last, so be sure to choose a product at the quality level of GAF, IKO, or Owens Corning roofing solutions.
Did you know that there are actually seven components to a roofing system? The shingles themselves are just part of the equation, so make sure your contractor is also installing quality ridge cap shingles, attic ventilation, rooftop accessories, starter strip shingles, roof deck protection and leak barriers.
INSTALLATION
Just as important as the quality of the asphalt roofing system you choose, is the experience-level and reliability of the roofing contractor you hire for the project.
If you’re choosing GAF as your roofing brand, it’s a good idea to be on the lookout for a contractor that has the following qualifications.
GAF Master Elite Installers
These are licensed installers who are insured for all of the work, proven to be reputable within the community, as well as being committed to completing specific, ongoing professional training.In addition to having an experienced contractor on the job, hiring a GAF Master Elite Installer gives you enhanced warranties on qualifying roofing systems.
GAF FORTIFIED
A GAF FORTIFIED roof is a designation that has been developed by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), which focuses on improving roof strength of a GAF roof by adding additional protection from severe Wisconsin weather. In addition, FORTIFIED roofing may be eligible for insurance discounts, so if you go this route, be sure to check with your homeowner’s insurance agent to verify.
CLIMATE
Where you live, and what the weather is like, has a direct effect on the longevity of your roofing system. Hot climates “bake” asphalt shingles, and UV rays also accelerate asphalt deterioration. Cold climates, with lots of snow, put pressure on the shingles — plus Dane County’s propensity to get hail storms means if your new asphalt roofing doesn’t have impact resistance, your roof may be in trouble.
SHINGLE COLOR
The color of shingles can affect how much heat is, or isn’t, absorbed by the shingles — so choosing a specific color that aligns with your region can extend the life of your roof.
Sunny regions, like Arizona and California, benefit from light-colored roofing because they absorb less heat, leading to less “baking” of the shingles.
In Wisconsin, darker colors will absorb more heat, but shingle color in our region is less critical than in hot ones.
ROOF SLOPE
Slope, also referred to as pitch, is essentially the vertical rise as compared to the horizontal run of your roof. Slope has a direct effect on drainage, as well as how much exposure it has to debris and wind. With steeper slopes, water runs off of the roof more expediently, which means less leaks. Steeper slopes also shed snow loads more easily, making heavy weight accumulation from snow less likely.
ROOF VENTILATION
Roof ventilation is critical to the long-term health of your roof, so it’s important to make sure proper ventilation is part of the roofing project. The goal is a consistent roof temperature, which prevents roofing materials from cracking under pressure.
ROOF MAINTENANCE
This includes regular inspections (we perform ours as a courtesy at no charge), as well as repairing the roof when necessary. Keeping your roof — and your gutters — free of debris is part of routine maintenance that goes a LONG way in keeping your roofing system healthy. If you don’t like cleaning your gutters, you can invest in a dependable gutter guard system to keep them clean. This is important because clogged gutters can lead to water getting under the shingles — which can cause ice damming.
YOUR HOME’S IMMEDIATE ENVIRONMENT
If trees are too close to your home, it can cause debris and leaves to clutter up your roof and gutters (unless you’ve got those gutter guards installed). In addition, if trees are too close to the home, the shade it provides can cause the roof to dry slower after it rains. If you do have trees close to your home, in addition to gutter guards, make sure tree branches are cut back about 10 feet from the roofline. This will help mitigate debris on the roof and also help prevent high winds from causing branches to scrape at the shingles.
GET IN TOUCH
If you have questions about asphalt roofing, or would like a complimentary roof inspection — with no strings attached — feel free to contact us any time. We’re always happy to help, even during the winter!