How Long Does a Roof Last? Average Roof Lifespan by Material

Just how much more can that roof over your head endure? This is a question that every property owner, builder, or prospective buyer quarrels with. Your roof is fundamental for protecting your entire property and all of your belongings. The type of materials your roof is made of – and the local climate – are the leading factors that determine lifespan.

Our  Vancouver roofing company shows you exactly what type of functionality you can expect from your current roof materials. Let’s take a look at what to expect from Vancouver’s most popular roof types.

How Vancouver’s Climate Affects The Longevity of Your Roof

Vancouver’s homes are a “different breed”. This is mostly because the exterior roof surface materials are more carefully chosen. These types of rooftops also have more advanced designs. This is s because these buildings need to remain steadfast as they endure a whirlwind of natural elements. Yes, in this coastal region, homes need to endure extremes like pouring rainstorms, strong and icy winds, regular frosts, and even occasional snowfall.

As you can imagine, it takes a pretty powerful roof and exceptional roofing materials to handle all of these elements. Here’s what might be affecting your roof right now;

Rain and Moisture – Roofing experts in Vancouver need to properly secure roofs from the intense rainfall. The constant moisture can get in anywhere and can cause decay inside any roof.

Growth – Growth like moss and algae won’t just tarnish your beautiful roof. These growths can also stain and weaken your exterior materials.

High Salt Content – Excessive salt in the air tends to cause metal fixtures to quickly rust and might result in loose roof components or rust.

Frost – Freez-taw cycles cause constant expansion and retraction. This movement can result in loose components, gaps, and leaks.

Strong Winds – Stormy winds are every homeowner’s biggest fear. This force of nature can easily pick off your roof tiles or make large trees crash down onto your property. 

Average Vancouver Roof Lifespan – By Material

So, how long do roof materials typically last when they are constantly exposed to elements like wind, frost, and rain? Let’s take a look at how long your Vancouver roof materials are likely to last. 

Asphalt Shingle Rooftops

Asphalt or asphalt singles are Vancouver’s most loved or most popular roof exterior material. This is mostly because of its price. It is the most affordable roof material in the Delta region. Yet this is hardly the only reason so many choose the asphalt route. 

The material is light enough for any home structure, yet powerful enough to provide adequate protection. The roofs are also pretty quick and easy to install – a little benefit that also reduces the cost of a Vancouver roof replacement. 

You can get between 15 and 25 years of good use from these rooftops – if they are adequately maintained by Vancouver’s roof specialists. Asphalt does have a few vulnerabilities, including the fact that it is prone to moisture damage and moss growth. 

Dimensional Roof Shingles

Roof shingles – especially dimensional or architectural shingles – are seen as the budget upgrade for asphalt shingles. This type of roof material is a little bit thicker and comes with an improved contoured design. As a result, the roof shingles look better, and they are a bit more resilient during wind storms. 

You can usually get about 20 to 30 years of solid protection with this type of roof. Even though it is a bit more expensive compared to your typical asphalt single, the roofs still pay off since they are so beautiful and a little bit more durable. 

Metal Roofing Types

Vancouver roofing contractors are constantly seen tinkering with and installing metal rooftops. This is because it is a very popular roof type, especially for commercial properties. 

Advanced metal roof sheets or tiles are used in the Delta area. These types of roof materials are specially coated to make the metal more rain or rust-resistant.  Because it is easier to work with metal, roofers are also able to secure it better to your roof structure, thus making it more wind resistant.

This type of roof does cost quite a bit more, especially compared to asphalt. Yet it is worth every penny since it is so easy to maintain. Typically, you will get about 40 to 70 years of service from a metal rooftop. 

Clay or Concrete Roof Tiles

Clay and concrete tile roof types are not quite as popular in our coastal region. This is mostly due to the weight. These roof tiles are heavy and can only be used on properties with a strong structure. 

In Vancouver, these roof materials are considered a deluxe material because they are so beautiful. Roof tiles come in many different shapes, designs, and colors. More importantly, your roof will last well over 50 years.

While it is a pretty heavy and expensive roof, it wil offer good functionality over the next 5 decades. 

Slate Roof Tiles

Slate roof tiles are the ‘Crème de la crème’ of roofing materials. These rooftops are only spotted in premium estates. They are extremely durable with a lifespan of over a century and can certainly tolerate Vancouver’s insane weather. 

The roofs are scarce because they are costly and labour-intensive to properly install. Yet, they are the least likely to cause issues because they offer the best elemental protection. 

Signs That Your Vancouver Home Needs a New Top Layer

Installing a new roof top coat or choosing a different roof material to upgrade your property is a smart decision. Most property owners will only choose this route under very specific situations, like the following; 

• The roof materials have exceeded their lifespan.
• The materials are worn out and damaged.
• Lots of moss buildup keeps returning. 
• Your roof is damaged, leaky, or shows signs of sagging. 

Find Out How Much Life Your Roof Has Left

At Vancouver’s best roofing company, we understand that replacing a roof is no small decision. Clinging to your old roof and calling a roofer for repairs is a good method for making your roof last a little bit longer. But repairs are only practical if your roof still has some time left. 

Booking a roof inspection is the only way to determine exactly how much time your roof has left. During these inspections, Army Roofing will inspect your roof from top to bottom and give you a detailed report on our findings. 

With this report, you will know exactly what repairs to make, and you will get a pretty good idea of just how much life your roof has left. 

Identify The Best Roof for Your Home – Help From Experts

A longer-lasting roof always starts with the right material and the right installation technique. If you want ot know what the right roof materials are for your budget and your home’s location, then we urge you to contact Army Roofing Inc. right away. 

Our Vancouver roofing company can do a quick property evaluation, and we can advise you on the best roof material type to consider for your next repair or upgrade.

Contact Army Roofing Inc. now for a detailed roof assessment, specialised roof care in Vancouver, or a full roof replacement.