Asphalt Shingles

They are one of the most popular roofing material options, so how long do asphalt shingles last exactly? It’s not a simple answer as there are many factors that influence a shingle’s lifespan: the exact asphalt shingle product used, how you maintain and repair your roof, climate and weather in the area, and any extreme storms. According to U.S. News, asphalt shingle/composition roofs last approximately 20 years while Consumer Reports puts their lifespan at 30 years or more. Let’s take a look at some additional factors and information about asphalt shingles to consider when making your roofing material decision.

Are Asphalt Shingles Good?

While asphalt shingles do not have the longevity of material like metal roof panels, it is important to remember that they remain extremely popular. One of the reasons they are so extremely popular is because they remain quite affordable and easy to install. It is important to remember there are many different types of asphalt shingles available on the market, and asphalt roofing is considered more durable than fiberglass roofing. Asphalt shingles are also more likely to stay in place during severe thunderstorms and extreme weather.

What is the Difference Between Architectural Shingles and Asphalt Shingles?

  • Three-tab asphalt shingles have a shingle tab size and shape. This tab size and shape is made up of three separate tabs that are twelve inches wide.
  • Architectural shingles are dimensional or laminate and come in different sizes and shapes.

How Long Do 30-Year Architectural Shingles Really Last?

Architectural shingles are the premier style of asphalt shingles and they can last anywhere from twenty-five to thirty years. While it is true that architectural shingles share some similarities with standard asphalt shingles, they are actually almost three times thicker. Meaning that architectural shingles can create a more resilient and reliable roof.

Are Asphalt Shingles Fireproof?

Wood shingles are much more prone to catching and spreading a fire than asphalt shingles are. Asphalt shingles can last two hours in a fire before catching fire, which means that asphalt shingles are not fireproof, but for such affordable roofing material, they do have some serious advantages. In Michigan we do not have to worry about environmental fires, so shingles are an excellent and affordable choice in terms of roofing materials. If a fire is a serious concern for you though, you may be better off with a more resilient roof;  metal roofs are quite fire-resistant and exhibit great roof longevity.

This gives you a general idea of how long you can expect your asphalt shingles to last. However, if you want your roof to last as long as possible, however, you’ll need to maintain it.

The Importance of Roof Maintenance

Scheduling annual inspections with a licensed roofing professional will help ensure that your roof lasts as long as possible. At AllPoint we work with you to help ensure that you are aware of required maintenance tasks that can catch minor issues before they escalate into major problems. In addition, it’s important to keep an eye on your roof, especially after a storm or extreme weather hits.  After a storm involving ice, hail, or strong winds, schedule an inspection with us or look over your roof yourself, and if any damage is spotted, we can get to repairs before any further damage is done.

Signs You Need to Replace Your Asphalt Shingles

Since we can’t give you an exact expiration date for your roof, you’ll have to keep track of its age and monitor its condition as the years go by. If you start to notice some of the following issues, you may need to replace your roof soon:

  • Missing shingles
  • Curling or buckling shingles
  • Dark streaks and stains
  • A leak in the roof
  • Water damage inside your home
  • Cracked shingles
  • Shingles missing granules
  • Granules in the gutters
  • Algae or moss that has lingered on the roof, damaging the shingles
  • Sagging roof
  • Rot or decay

If you identify any of these signs of roof damage, don’t panic! You don’t need to schedule a roof replacement right away and, in some cases, the issue can be repaired, and the roof can last for many years to come.

As soon as you notice the damage, simply contact us to schedule an inspection. Using our experience and expertise, we will recommend a repair or a replacement.

Between super-heated summers and bitter-cold winters, Michigan’s extreme seasonal changes take a vicious toll on roofs. That’s why we only use top-quality roofing materials and supplies from GAF, North America’s leading roofing manufacturer. GAF products cover and protect everything from churches and commercial facilities to professional sporting stadiums. And that same quality is guaranteed to protect what matters most important to you – your family and your home.