How Long Will Your Asphalt Shingle Roofing Last?

Whether you’re building a new home, or hiring asphalt shingle roofing contractors in Fayetteville to re-roof an older home, you want your investment to last. Roofs are expensive, and you should expect many years of service before renovations are needed again.

But how long will that asphalt shingle roofing last? It depends on several factors, including materials, weather, and other elements. Let’s take a look at expected lifespans, and how they can be affected.

I. The Basic Lifespan of Asphalt Shingle Roofing

There are two different types of asphalt shingle roofing that have different levels of durability.

Organic shingles are made from a felt-like material that is soaked in asphalt to make them water-resistant, as well as being coated with adhesive asphalt or other granules. They have a higher percentage of asphalt and are moderately more durable. They will also cost more.

Glass fiber shingles are made from a fiberglass mat, which is coated in asphalt, along with an extra layer of granules on top. They are weaker than organic shingles, but cheaper and easier to work with, making them generally more popular.

Overall, a glass fiber shingle installation might last 15-20 years, and add a few more for organic shingles.

II. Factors That Affect Shingles’ Lifespan

That 15–25-year estimate is already broad, but it can be further affected by a lot of factors.

1. Installation quality

You want to make sure to only hire highly qualified asphalt shingle roofing contractors. Otherwise, a poorly built roof could start falling apart in just a few years.

2. Temperature

After installation quality, the temperature has the most impact on the shingle lifespan. Temperatures above 100F will damage the tiles over time, as well as wide swings in temperature. If it goes from 100F in the day, to 50F at night, that will quickly wear down the shingles.

3. Weather effects

Shingles in general don’t hold up very well against high winds, hard rain, or hail. If frequent heavy storms are a threat, you may want to look into more solid roofing options such as metal or slate, even if they’re more expensive.

4. Color

Darker colors absorb heat, which damages the shingles more quickly. It’s highly recommended to use lighter colors if possible because they extend the roof’s lifespan as well as slightly reducing heat buildup below the roof.

5. Roof angle

Shingles on roofs with a steep slope tend to last longer than on low-slope or flat roofs. This is because shallow roof angles make it easier for water and debris to become trapped on the shingles, damaging them over time.

6. Nearby trees

Be sure to keep your trees trimmed, if their branches can potentially reach your roof. A branch whipping back and forth in the wind can rip asphalt shingles to shreds.

Advanced Roofing Solutions Is Here to Help!

If it’s time to build a new roof, Advanced Roofing Solutions are your go-to Fayetteville asphalt shingle roofing contractors! We’ll work with you to understand your home and your weather situation and recommend the best roofing material for long-term durability.

Contact us for a free consultation!