Concrete, clay, and slate tiles are the most durable roofing materials. These materials exceed other natural items such as wood shakes as well as all manufactured roofing materials such as asphalt shingles and metal roofing. Concrete and clay tiles can last for decades under normal conditions, while slate tiles can last hundreds of years if properly maintained.
Wood is the most common material used for shingles. It comes in a variety of colors and styles. Wood shingles last between 10 and 20 years depending on the quality of the wood, how it's treated, the type of weather exposure it receives, and other factors. The lifespan of wood shingles can be extended by installing trim or soffits after each season to prevent rotting from exposure to sunlight.
Asphalt shingles are a standard feature on many homes across the country. They're easy to install and very affordable. Asphalt shingles last about 15 years on average, but some manufacturers claim their products will last up to 40 years.
Metal roofing is becoming more popular because of its longevity: typically 20 years or more. Metal roofing looks beautiful and provides protection from the elements. However, it does require more maintenance than other types of roofs due to the fact that metal is a porous surface and water may penetrate the surface over time.
With a life expectancy of 150 years, slate is the most durable roofing material, followed by clay and concrete at around 100 years. If you want your roof to survive for more than 100 years, you should select a design that incorporates slate. These days, commercial-grade slates can be found in many different colors, which means they are easy to match with other parts of the building's exterior.
As far as price goes, the lifespan of the roof is the most important factor. Slates are the most expensive roofing material, followed by clay and concrete. However, if you plan to live in your home for more than 100 years, it doesn't matter how much it costs; you'll always be able to afford a replacement roof when it needs to be replaced.
The type of weather in your area will also affect your choice of roofing material. For example, if you live in an area that experiences heavy rain and snow, then you should choose a waterproof membrane as opposed to shingles or felt. This is because membranes can be installed over existing roofs without removing any of its current content, while the others must be replaced with new material.
The Five Longest-Lasting Roofing Materials
Tile roofs may survive for more than 50 years if properly installed. This roofing option is built of either concrete or clay, with clay being the more durable alternative. However, hurricanes, storms, and a lack of care can reduce the entire lifespan of a tile roof by years. When selecting a tile supplier, look for one that uses high-quality materials and installs the tiles according to approved methods. Also consider the type of climate where you live when choosing which material will work best for your home.
Clay tiles are made by mixing sand with clay soil to create a paste that is molded into place or rolled out onto an already completed surface. The rolled out clay is dried in the sun or with help from air circulation tools and then cut to size. Concrete tiles are mixed at a manufacturing plant and formed into sheets that are placed on top of each other to make the roof. The seams are usually taped together and the whole thing painted to match any other parts of the house. Both types of tile require special care and maintenance to look good for as long as possible.
If you want to extend the life of your tile roof, try to avoid applying water directly to the face of the tile. This can lead to cracking and breaking of the tile because it's so hard for water to escape. Instead, apply water to the exterior surface of the roof through light rain showers or hose outlets.
Roofs. Roofs made of slate, copper, or tile can survive for more than 50 years. According to the NAHB, wood shake roofs should last around 30 years, fiber cement shingles about 25 years, and asphalt shingle/composition roofs about 20 years. But the average lifespan of a shingle is much shorter—about 10 years.
Shakes are easy to install off of the ground sheet metal using simple hand tools. They come in a variety of styles including classic, floral, geometric, and cursive. The choice of material will determine how long they last. If you choose wood, make sure it's been treated with a waterproof sealant. Otherwise, it might be exposed to moisture which can cause it to decay. Asphalt shingles are also called composition shingles because they are made from multiple layers of materials glued together. The most common types include: organic-based (fiberglass, rubber), petroleum-based (asphalt), and silicate (quartz). These days, they're usually color-coated to match your home exterior.
Shingles get blown off of houses in storms. They can be replaced without having to replace the whole roof. However, if you don't want to replace the whole roof, you should at least replace the damaged shingles so the structure of the roof is not compromised.