How long do asphalt shingles last?

Quality of shingles

There are a few levels of shingles when it comes to quality. You can go with the cheapest level, but buyer beware that shingles are one of those things where you get what you pay for.

While it will obviously cost more in the initial renovation, going with a more expensive, higher quality shingle should have longer term cost benefits. Keep in mind that there are environmental and other factors that may affect the longevity.

For example, if you buy the same shingles as someone who has their house in a different environmental setting, such as a wooded area, and your house being out in the open, your roof will be exposed to more direct sunlight and wind. Meanwhile, the other house in the wooded area would experience more sap from trees and physical damage from falling branches.

3-tab shingles

These types of shingles are the more basic and less costly asphalt shingle, which should be used on sloped roofs. These shingles should last between 10 and 20 years.

They’re better suited for temperate climates where there is minimal storm activity. Rapid temperature changes can cause cracking.

Dimensional/Architectural Shingles

These are thicker, more durable than 3-tab shingles, and last longer as well. They should last anywhere from 15 to 25 years and are better suited for higher winds.

Premium Shingles

When you see a house with fancy-looking shingles, they’re probably premium shingles. These are usually thicker and last the longest of the three types.

The lifespan averages around 20 to 30 years and are similar to dimensional shingles in its wind resistance; however, these may be better suited to hail.

Environmental and other factors

As mentioned above, there are various factors that could affect the longevity of your roof.

Direct sunlight

One very common thing among roofs is that the south-facing side will be worse for ware faster than the north side. Due to the south side shingles being exposed to the ultraviolet rays from the sun, they will deteriorate faster, even more so on high-pitched roofs.

Trees

If your house is surrounded by a lot of trees, your roof could be prone to falling branches and other debris. This could cause scraping on the shingles which deteriorate the granules.

Extreme weather conditions

As we’re all aware, Winnipeg experiences major temperature extremes. Our summers are hot and can be very humid. Our winters are something ridiculous, and which should not be endured by any human being.

This fluctuation can seriously shorten the lifespan of your roof. This causes the shingles to go through rapid expansion and contraction due to changing from thawing to freezing, etc.

Roof installation

One of the last major factors is the installation of your roof. If you install the roof yourself, and you’re not a professional Winnipeg roofer, there’s a good chance that the installation will not be perfect.

Not only do you need the right tools and materials, but you also need the knowledge and experience.