What is the Average Roof Life Expectancy?

One of the most common questions property owners in the Los Angeles area have relates to how long their roof should last. Replacing a roof can be an expensive prospect, and many property owners understandably want to maximize the life of their roof. However, the answer to this question is not cut and dry, and there are several factors that ultimately will determine how long your roof will last. With a closer inspection of these factors, you may be able to more easily determine the life span of your roof.

The Type of Roof

One of the more significant factors that will influence the longevity of a roof is the type of roof that is installed. For example, asphalt shingle roofs are highly common on homes in the Gardena area. These roofs may be rated for 20 or 30 years in most cases. Tile and slate roofs are also very common. While they are more susceptible to damage from cracking or breaking over time than asphalt shingles are, they have a longer life span when they are well-maintained. In fact, they can easily provide you with a useful life of more than 50 or 60 years, and this means that this may be the only roof your property needs throughout your time of ownership. Each roofing type is unique, so you must first ascertain the roof type before you determine the longevity.

How Well-Maintained the Roof Is

In addition to roof type, the care and maintenance the roof receives over its lifetime will also be key in determining longevity. For example, because tile and slate can crack when weight is placed on them, care should be taken to avoid walking on them. Asphalt shingles can bend, bow or even fall off from time to time. This can impact the overall integrity of the entire roof. Identifying repair needs and making them when needed can increase the lifespan of a roof.

Local Weather Conditions

A final point that will influence a roof’s longevity is local weather conditions. Gardena and Los Angeles are known for having a wonderfully mild climate, but there are times when high winds, damaging rain, and more blow through the area. In addition, even intense heat and harsh UV rays can cause damage to some types of roofs. We may not have the harshest climate, but there are instances when the climate can be a detriment to a roofing system.

While reviewing these factors will give you a better idea about how long your roof should last, the best way to determine how much life remains in your roof is to get an inspection from a licensed and certified roofing team. At Haupt Roofing, we have been serving the Gardena community and other surrounding areas for more than 20 years, and we are available to inspect your roof without delay. Through an inspection, we can provide you with information regarding needed repair work to maintain your roof or the cost of an installation if a replacement is in order.