How can I make my roof last longer?

Your roof is essential to your home and should be maintained in good condition. There are many options for roofing materials, each with its pros and cons. Some roofing materials are better than others in terms of durability. Still, when you consider their cost, appearance, installation and maintenance requirements, some options may not seem practical at first.

It cannot be evident to keep your roof in good condition. The best roofing material will vary from one situation to the next. Knowing what you can expect from your roof will help you understand how it should perform, how much maintenance it will require, and how long it should be expected to last before it needs to be replaced.

Asphalt Roofs

Asphalt roofing is the most popular roofing material. Most people are familiar with its advantages and disadvantages. Asphalt roofing is usually much cheaper than other roofing materials, so it is expected to last a shorter time. An asphalt roof can last between 15 and 20 years, depending on its quality. Asphalt roofs are considered low-maintenance, but you don't have to worry about them once they are up.

As with all asphalt roofs, they are not maintenance-free. Fortunately, this material is easy to work with, and many professionals in the area are skilled with it. The best way to extend the lifespan of your asphalt roof is to treat it like a vehicle and do regular roof inspections. You can expect your roof to last for many decades with some maintenance.

Metal roofs

If asked to imagine a metal roof, many people will say it is more common to see one on a 100-year-old barn than in a modern house. Metal roofs have advanced significantly over the past century, and today's models offer some of the most reliable roofs. Metal roofs, whether shingle or panel, are very low-maintenance and usually come with a 20-40 year warranty. 

However, some metal roofs can last even longer. You don't need to worry about how your metal roof will last. However, you can improve its durability by installing it. Although metal roofing products can seem expensive at first, they are often worth it in the end. You're investing in a quality roof that will last for a lifetime by hiring a professional roofing contractor to install it.

Shake and Wood Shingle Roofing

This is where maintenance comes in. Wood roofs can be attractive and insulated, but they are susceptible to issues that aren't present with other materials. Wood roofs need to be maintained if they are to last a decent amount of time.

Wood products can be affected by moisture. Cedar, naturally resistant to rot and insects and one of the most popular species for wood roofing, is not immune to this effect and should be kept as dry as possible. It is essential to keep it clean and ventilate the underside. Wood roofs should be cleaned as often as possible to remove dirt, leaves, and other debris.

Although ventilation must be considered when your roof is installed, adequate attic ventilation can help reduce moisture buildup beneath the shingles. Although chemical treatments can prolong the life of a wood roof, it is better to have it treated before installation to ensure complete coverage. Sealants can be used to repair damaged areas, but wood roofs are not expected to last longer than 20-30 years.

Slate and tile roofing

These are the big guys. This is a very durable material that is particularly popular in the west and south. These roofs can last up to 50 years, depending on the quality of the tiles. You should be careful when choosing tiles, as some are more durable than others. 

Slate roofing isn't what you would call common and not something you would consider cheap. A well-installed slate roof can last up to 100 years. It is possible to extend the lifespan of both slate and tile roofs once installed. However, it is essential to choose a high-quality material for maximum performance and longevity.

Roof Inspections

Roof inspections can make a big difference in the life expectancy of your roof and how costly it will need to be maintained. Even the most durable roofs can be damaged by severe storms and other unforeseeable, traumatic events. Often, the damage is not visible to those who aren't skilled in spotting it. Roofers Mississauga will allow you to spot minor problems before they grow into larger ones. This will result in lower maintenance costs and longer roof life.