Judging the Lifespan of a Roof

The life expectancy of your roof depends factors that include the roof design and the climate you live in, as well as the quality of installation and long-term care and maintenance. However, you can usually determine the average lifespan of your roof based on the material used to cover it.


The life expectancy of a roof varies between different roofing materials:


  • 1 - Asphalt Shingles, 3-tab - 15 to 18 years
  • 2 - Asphalt Shingles, Architectural - 24 to 30 years
  • 3 - Galvalume (metal) - 30 to 45 years
  • 4 - Concrete Tile - 35 to 50 years
  • 5 - Built-Up or Modified Bitumen - 10 to 16 years
  • 6 - EPDM (rubber) - 10 to 16 years


The average lifespan of a roof is based on "average" conditions. Many factors contribute to a longer or shorter life of the roof.

Here's a list of conditions that affect roof longevity:

  • - Colour of the roof - A dark roof absorbs more heat, which shortens the lifespan.

  • - Angle of the roof slope - Higher pitch roofs tend to last longer.

  • - Orientation of the roof surface - A roof slope facing south will get more sunlight, and have a shorter life.

  • - Multiple-layer roof - A roof installed over an existing roof will have a shorter life.

  • - Installation - Sloppy or improper installation shortens roof life.

  • - Attic ventilation - An unventilated or poorly ventilated attic reduces roof lifespan.

  • - Trees near the roof - Tree branches rubbing on a roof or the acidity from the accumulation of leaf debris on a roof shortens its life.

  • - Harsh climate - Severe weather, both harsh winters and hot summers, along with big temperature swings within a 24-hour period, also shorten lifespan because of the expansion and contraction of roof materials.

It is also important to remember that the amount of routine maintenance and the quality of the roofing products you purchase play crucial roles in determining the life expectancy of a roof.

Longevity in a large part is related to the cost and style of roofing materials.

Before choosing a type of new roof, consider how much you want to pay, what kinds of roofing products are used in the neighborhood surrounding your home, and how long you expect to be in your home. You also might want to consult with a roofing contractor about which materials are the best fit for your geographical region in order to determine how long the roof will last.



Learn more about roofers or important tips to consider when hiring a roofer. We can answer your roofing repair questions call us at Call (604) 888-9451

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See what our customers are saying!

Shortly after moving into our new home, we contacted Landmark about doing some maintenance on the structure's 10 year old roof - moss treatment, replacing damaged shingles and faschia board, gutter cleaning, and the installation of a new ridge-vent and water diverters. David was very personable and knowledgeable, and genuinely wanted to help and deliver good value. He and his team delivered on all fronts and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them.

Cyrus - Pitt Meadows, BC

I haven't met such a professional, efficient and prompt person like David of Landmark Roofing in a very long time. His workers were carefully selected and excellent. David's attention to detail and his personality stands out. I highly recommend Landmark Roofing for any roofing needs and I hope to hire the company again.

Mlada Morris - Nanaimo, BC

Landmark was very prompt and professional. Took the old roof off one day and got most of the new stuff on the next day. Finished on day 3. clean up was good. Would not hesitate to recommend them.

Barry Maskell - Whistler, BC