A new roof is one of the biggest investments you will make on your home, so you want to make sure your hard-earned money is spent on a quality job that will last as long as possible. Whether you’re trying to choose the material for a new roof or you’re trying to determine if your existing roof needs a replacement, it is helpful to know exactly how long a roof should last. Our Orlando roofing experts can help explain!
Factors That Determine the Lifespan of a Roof
Some roofs last about 15 years, while others can hold up for 50 years or longer! Barring a serious storm or a large fallen tree, the lifespan of a roof is determined by certain factors including:
- Materials
- Workmanship
- Weather elements
- Climate
It is important to note that no matter what type of roof you have, it is crucial to choose an experienced, reliable roofing contractor to do the installation. Anyone can buy some shingles at the local home improvement store, but proper installation is required to achieve the maximum lifespan of the roofing system. If you’re in the Orlando area and are thinking about getting a new roof, call the Orlando roofing experts at Performance Roofing today at 407.783.8646!
Lifespans of the Different Roof Types
3-Tab Asphalt Shingles
3-Tab asphalt shingles, most often considered to be the “Builder’s Grade” of shingles, are still installed on a large portion of new construction homes nationally. Thanks to their affordability (between $3 to $3.50 per square foot), their ability to shed water on a low slope, and impressive warranties (up to 25-years), they continue to be positioned as an entry level roofing option. They are, however, continuing to lose their market share. 3-Tab Shingles are comprised of a fiberglass mat, encased in asphalt and coated with granules, and provide a durable layer of protection from UV rays, wind, and rain. The expected lifespan of a 3-Tab Asphalt Shingle roof is between 12 to 20 years in our Southeastern Climate.
“Architectural” or “Dimensional” Laminate Asphalt Shingles
Considered the “Designer” asphalt shingle option, the multiple, laminated layers of an architectural shingle are up to three times thicker and form a denser, more resilient roof than standard 3-Tab asphalt shingles. They are also considered a more attractive option, which allows homeowners to choose from styles that mimic more expensive roofing such as wood, slate, and tile. Expect to pay around $3.50 to $4.50 per square foot with a lifespan between 18 to 25 years in our Southeastern Climate.
Concrete Tile
Concrete tile roofing systems are a popular option for many Florida homes and can range between $8 to $12 per square foot. Expensive, yes… but if installed properly, you will not be replacing a roof any time soon! The durable, low-maintenance concrete tiles can easily last up to 50 years with a tile warranties from 30 years to a lifetime. The tiles, however, are only one component of the tile roofing system. Most important when designing a system is the underlayment and flashings that are used under the tiles themselves to waterproof the structure.
Metal
Metal roofs are both attractive and durable, however, there is a wide range of options that can cost anywhere from $8 to $15 per square foot – based on the thickness, type, and application of the material. Metal roofing systems are most commonly steel, with aluminum options available for coastal exposure. Some contractors install panels over an existing shingle roofing system; however, a proper, long-term solution should include the existing roof removal before application of a high-temp underlayment and the new metal panels. The rule of thumb with metal roofs is that the thicker the gauge, the more durable (and expensive) the roof will be. Depending on the quality and type of the material, a metal roof can last up to 70 years with a warranty ranging from 20 years to a lifetime.
Performance Roofing – Orlando’s Premier Roofing Contractor
Need a new roof on your residential or multi-family property? Call the dependable Orlando roofers at Performance Roofing today at 407.783.8646 for a FREE estimate!
