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May 1, 2024

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Whether you’re a new homeowner or just had your roof replaced, you might wonder how long your roof is supposed to last. Replacing a roof is a hefty expense, and you’ll want to be ready financially if the need for a replacement roof comes up. 

Roofs are fairly complex structures, each part working together to protect your home, provide insulation, and manage drainage, to name a few. Understanding the parts of a roof will help you determine when it is time for a roof replacement.

Trinity Exteriors, your professional roof repair and siding company, will explain how long your roof should last based on materials and how you can make your roof last longer. 

How Long Will My Roof Last?

The average lifespan of a typical roof is between 25-50 years. However, the lifespan depends greatly on the type of materials used in your roof; you get what you pay for. 

If you or a previous homeowner opted for cheaper materials on the roof, you wouldn’t see as long of a lifespan.

Three-Tab Asphalt Shingles

Three-tab asphalt shingles are the cheapest option for roofing materials and last the shortest amount of time. You can expect asphalt shingles to last between 15 to 20 years. They’re a budget-friendly option in a pinch, but if you are able, you might want to consider higher-end roofing materials if you’re going for a total replacement. 

Metal Roofing

With metal roofing, the life expectancy depends on the thickness of the metal. Thinner metal roofs will last about 20 to 25 years, while thicker metal will last over 50 years. Metal roofs are becoming more popular, and while they last longer, they cost more to install. 

Architectural Asphalt Shingles

If you prefer the look of asphalt shingles, then choosing architectural shingles is a good decision. They’re made of thicker material and are designed to last longer than three-tab shingles. 

Architectural asphalt shingles will last 30 or 50 years, depending on the type. They come in a variety of colors and will give your home a “layered” look. 

Composite Shingles

Composite shingles are made to look like wood or slate tiles but are actually made of polymer, rubber, or plastic. They are less expensive than slate shingles but still a pricy investment. They can last from 40 to 50 years. 

Slate Tiles

Slate tiles are extremely durable and have some of the longest life spans for a roof. They can last well over 50 years and sometimes up to 100 years. They are excellent choices for the Midwest since they can resist heat, hail, snow, and moisture.

However, they are expensive and heavy, so a structural engineer would be needed to make sure your roof structure can handle the weight. 

Cedar Shingles

Cedar shingles offer natural beauty for your roof from the colors and texture of cedar. As cedar ages, it will gracefully turn into a grayish-silver tone. They are great for cost savings and durability. Depending on the build, cedar shingles can last between 18-22 years. 

Signs You Need a Roof Replacement

As your roof ages, you will need to keep an eye on signs that your roof is failing. Always look for these signs that may indicate that it is time for a roof replacement: 

How to Make Your Roof Last Longer in Minnesota

The best way to keep your roof lasting longer is to perform regular maintenance checks. Hiring a professional once a year to inspect your roof is a great idea and will help catch problems before they become worse. Always repair leaks promptly to prevent them from worsening over time. 

Maintaining your gutters is another way to keep your roof lasting longer. If your gutters are clogged or broken, the rain and snow will not drain away from your roof properly and can cause leaks.

Moss and algae build-up is common for roofs as well, which can damage your shingles. Moss and algae tend to grow on the side of your roof that receives the least amount of sun–usually the north-facing side. Algae build-up can be cleaned off by a qualified professional.  

Ice dams are another problem you might have during the winter, which is when there is a build-up of ice along your roof line. Get those removed by a professional to avoid damage to your roof or leaks. You can also take steps to prevent ice dams from forming. 

Minnesota Roof Problems? Trinity Exteriors Can Help!

Trinity Exteriors has the experience and knowledge to help keep your roof from deteriorating over time. You’ll be able to take advantage of those roof-type lifespans if you regularly maintain your roof. 

For a free roof replacement quote, contact us to perform a thorough assessment. Trinity Exteriors offers financing for large projects. 

If you do have leaks or need a roof replacement, be sure to call Trinity Exteriors at 952-920-9520 or send us a message on our website. 

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