How long does a roof last?
Typical lifespans by material, and what makes the difference.
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| Roof | Typical life |
|---|---|
| Asphalt shingle | 20–30 years |
| Metal | 40+ years |
| Clay or concrete tile | 50+ years (underlayment sooner) |
| Slate | 75+ years |
| Cedar shake | 20–40 years |
| Flat (TPO, EPDM) | 15–30 years |
What shortens a roof's life
- Hail and high wind.
- Poor attic ventilation.
- Intense sun and heat.
- Small leaks left too long.
What helps
- An inspection after big storms.
- Fixing small problems early.
- Keeping branches off the roof.
