How Long Do Asphalt Roofs Last?

When it becomes time to put a new roof on your home you must take into consideration the cost and longevity of the type of roofing material you choose. As one of the most commonly-used roofing materials, asphalt is one of your options.

Are you wondering how long do asphalt roofs last?

Read further for more information.

How Long Do Asphalt Roof Shingles Last?

Four out of five homes use asphalt shingles, reports CertainTeed, with the shingles available in three main design categories:

strip
dimensional
premium

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Strip Shingles

Strip shingles are single-layer roofing shingles that can resemble the more-expensive slate. They are lightweight and have a flat appearance on the roofline, and are used on mainly economy homes. Strip shingles can last 20-25 years, on average. Three-tab asphalt roofing shingles may last only 10-20 years.

In general, asphalt or composite shingles have a lifespan of approximately 20 years.

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Dimensional Shingles

Dimensional asphalt shingles are dual- or multi-layered to provide a thicker layer on the roof. They also weigh more than strip shingles. Their lifespan can range from 30 years, with some manufacturers, like CertainTeed, offering a lifetime warranty covering shingles for 50 years.

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Premium Shingles

Premium asphalt shingles are laminated shingles with product designs that can resemble “old world” roofing options like natural slate or natural slate shingles. How long do premium asphalt roofs last? The more premium-designed asphalt shingles can last up to 50 years.

Other factors that can influence how long an asphalt roof lasts include the roofing underlayment, ventilation, and quality of installation. Cleaning and maintenance can also play a role.

What is an Asphalt Shingle?

Wikipedia defines an asphalt shingle as a

“type of wall or roof shingle that uses asphalt for waterproofing. It is one of the most widely-used roofing covers in North America because it has a relatively inexpensive up-front cost and is fairly simple to install.”

It goes on to explain that asphalt shingles primarily contain two types of base materials: organic and fiberglass.

Organic Shingles

Organic shingles are created from a base mat of paper, cellulose, wood fiber or other organic materials that is saturated with asphalt to waterproof them. They are coated with another layer of adhesive asphalt and covered with solid granules. They are less brittle than fiberglass shingles in cold weather.

Fiberglass Shingles

Fiberglass shingles were designer to replace asbestos in organic mat shingles. Their base layer of glass fiber is coated with asphalt containing mineral fillers to waterproof them. They are more fire resistant than organic shingles.

Deciding on an Asphalt Shingle Roof?

Call American Dream Restoration.

Decisions about roofing and roofing choices aren’t easy. But don’t worry. Our roofing experts at American Dream Restoration are here to answer any of your roofing questions, such as “what type of roof do I need or can afford?” or “how long does an asphalt roof last?”

Contact us at American Dream Restoration, your local roofing specialist, at one of our local offices in Front Royal, Woodbridge or Winchester.