Shingle roofs are a popular roofing option throughout Illinois and the rest of the country. These roofs, often made with asphalt shingles, are the most affordable option, and they can come in a variety of stylish colors. Plus, there’s something to be said for uniformity to the rest of the neighborhood. But are shingle roofs the best option for your home? For one thing, how long will they last on your home? Let’s break down several factors that contribute to the lifespan and reliability of shingle roofs.

How Long Do Shingle Roofs Last Compared To Other Roofing Materials?

A simple Google search into the lifespan of shingle roofs will tell you that not all shingle roofs offer the same quality or the same longevity. For instance, cheap shingle roofs will last about 15. Well-made roofing shingles can last as long as 30 years. Architectural shingles tend to be the longest-lasting type of shingles.

This is also, of course, dependent on your climate. Snow, sleet, hail, or heavy rains and winds can all impact the lifespan of your roof. In Illinois, there are strong winds and harsh winters for your roof to contend with.

There are other roofing materials to compare this to, but you must also consider their other ups and downs in comparison to shingle roofs.

Wood Shakes

Wood shakes can look like shingles but with the genuine warmth and classic beauty of wood. They can last about as long as architectural asphalt shingles, 30 years, but they require constant maintenance. Wood is too permeable and will take in water, becoming swollen or rotten under exposure to moisture.

Clay Tile

Clay tile roofs are often seen in Southwest or Spanish style homes and have a striking look. They can last up to 50 years, though they are much more expensive than asphalt shingles and tend to be more difficult to install because of their weight. The same can often be said for slate roofs.

Metal Roofs

Metal roofs are becoming a popular option, mostly because of their long lasting quality. According to Bob Villa, they can last as long as 70 years. However, metal roofs are one of the most expensive roofing options, and they are still less easy to install than asphalt shingle roofs. These roofs can rust over time or paint can begin to fade and peel, so they’ll still need regular maintenance.

Why Do Shingle Roofs Break Down Over Time?

There can be a number of reasons that asphalt roofs break down over time. Some have to do with the construction of the roof itself, while others are about natural or environmental factors. The more you know about the factors that can cause asphalt roofs to break down, the longer you can protect your asphalt roofs.

• The slope of the roof. Asphalt roofs are a great option for traditionally sloped roofs, but should not be used on low sloped roofs. If the roof is less than 3” of rise in 12” of run in its slope, asphalt roofs can become vulnerable to wind damage.
• The roof ventilation. Roof ventilation helps to keep the roof cool throughout the year and prevent curling shingles or granules shedding from the roof. If your roof isn’t ventilated, or is poorly ventilated, shingles are more likely to dry up or break down due to pressure from the heat.
• Manufacturing defects. If asphalt shingles are poorly made, manufacturing defects can cause them to break down more quickly. For instance, cracks, splices, or stains can all be signs of a defect that will only deteriorate once exposed to the elements. It’s a good idea to quality-check the materials before they’re installed on your roof.
• Exposure to weather. Strong winds, snow, ice, or fallen debris can have an impact on any roofing materials, and asphalt shingles are no exception. If not supported by a complex roofing system that guards against moisture, asphalt shingles can begin to give way to roof leaks.
• Exposure to the sun. In time, the sun can wear down on any roofing material. Prolonged sunlight can cause asphalt shingles to become dry and brittle, allowing for more chances of cracks and splices over time.

Best Shingle Roofs For Your Region

All that said, sometimes the best choice for your home is a shingle roof. Whether it’s about budget, ease of installation, or the aesthetic, you can still find a shingle roof that will last for decades on your home and stand up to the elements in your region. For this, we recommend TruDefinition Duration shingles, specifically designed to last.

These shingles feature a warranty that lasts as long as you own your home, as well as a 130MPH Wind Resistance Warranty and an Algae Resistance Warranty. That’s because we’re confident that they’ll last. They come in a number of stylish colors but are also backed by a complex roofing system that helps to uphold the lifespan of these shingles, including:

• Roof Ventilation
• Fiberglass blown in insulation
• Felt underlayment
• Self-sealing ice and water barriers
• Gutter drainage protection

Want to learn more about the TruDefinition Duration Shingles offered by Mainstream Home Improvements? We’re happy to help. Contact us today to learn more or to get started with a free estimate for your own shingle roof installation.