Asphalt Shingles;
3-tab - 15 to 22 years
Architectural - 18 to 25 years
Presidential - 25 to 40 years
Cedar Shake - 25 - 40 years
Metal - 30 to 45 years
Concrete Tile - 35 to 50 years
Rolled Asphalt Roofing - 8 to 15 years
TPO (typically a white membrane) - 14 to 24 years
EPDM (typically a black rubber) - 16 to 26 years
Built-Up or Modified Bitumen - 12 to 18 years
Within the last 20% of the roofs life the chance of a leak may increase tenfold. Recommend inspecting at least once a year at this point.
Average lifespan estimates are based on typical conditions. Many factors contribute to a longer or shorter life of the roof.
List of conditions that may affect the roofs longevity:
Color - A dark roof absorbs more heat, which can shorten the lifespan.
Angle "Pitch" - Steeper pitch roofs tend to last longer.
Orientation of roof surface - A roof slope facing south will get more sunlight and may decrease some roofings expected life span. A roof facing north has an increased chance of moss which can deteriorate asphalt or concrete roofing.
Multiple-layer roof - A roof installed over an existing roof will have a shorter life.
Installation - Improper installation can shorten a roofs life and increase the chance of premature leaks.
Attic ventilation - An unventilated or poorly ventilated attic reduces roof lifespan.
Trees near 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.