Wondering how long a roof will last is one of the first questions a homeowner asks before installing a roof. Understanding the longevity of a roof really depends upon a variety of different aspects. Some of them might last 100 years while some might need replacement within an amount of time of 20 years. The different factors affecting the stability and longevity of a roof include:
Material
One of the major factors that determines the life of a roof is the material that the roof is comprised of. Some materials have attributes that allow them to be resilient for a longer amount of time however that does not suggest integrity is guaranteed. Different materials may be vulnerable to severe climate conditions.
For example, wood shakes do last longer than asphalt shingles, however they often fall prey to moisture damage. This factor makes wood shakes not the ideal financial investment for individuals living in areas that have a damp environment.
Roof Design
The style of the roof also plays a significant function in the integrity of the roof. Hooks, for example, support tiled roofs and heavy slates can be built too steep, creating a high risk of the tiles or slates falling. This is one reason certain styles are recommended for types of roofs. However, steep slopes of roofs are much better at water run-off when compared to low sloping roofing systems. Because of that reason, they have a smaller percentage of any moisture associated damage.
Setup
Setup is a very important element of a roof’s integrity. Even if the material is the best quality, it can degrade in a much shorter time period if not installed correctly. Roofs that are not installed properly or according to the correct specifications often prove to have loose nails or tiled with incorrect alignment. Because of this, it is best to stick to the specifications of the maker throughout the setup process.
Age
Even if where you live is an ideal environment, over time the roof will begin weakening. The resistance against the weather by the roof will begin to decrease until structural integrity begins to get compromised. With the roofs integrity compromised, there is now a need for a complete replacement of the roof.
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