The million dollar question if you own an asphalt shingle roof is, “How long does a shingle roof last?” This question is asked by everyone who purchases a home with this type of roof because they want to know how long before the big expense happens. The answer to how long asphalt shingles last is not as clear as one may like but there are some principles and circumstances that can help determine how much longer before you need to replace your shingle roof. In short, in the Tucson Arizona area with the extreme sun a homeowner can reasonably expect their shingle roof to last from 10-25 years before needing replaced. Roof replacements can be expensive so knowing some key facts up front can help you determine when and how and to some degree how much to save up for a new asphalt shingle roof.
Shingle Roofs Age Different In Different Locations
Location, location, location! Shingles have differing lifespans depending upon the geographic location where they were installed. In Tucson, Arizona shingles do not last as long as they would in more moderate climates. The reason is the sun can be brutal on oil-based asphalt shingles. The sun bakes the shingles daily and the shingles dry out quicker than they would in other climates. Thinner shingles dry out quicker than thicker shingles. The old three-tab shingles, especially the cheaper ones, were quite thin compared to the modern shingle applications. Thank goodness for modern laminated / architectural shingles that are thicker and do last longer.
Shingle Roof Replacements vs Reroofing Shingle Over Shingles
Asphalt shingles last much longer when applied directly over underlayment and not in a shingle over shingle application. Reroofing involves laying new shingles over the top of old shingles, a roof replacement involves removing all the old roofing material and starting fresh. Many home owners choose to reroof because they are on a budget. If the old roof is in decent shape this application can be a viable option if the house can handle the extra weight. However, it is never the best option. Homeowners can get 25-50% more out of the same shingles if the roof is completely removed and replaced. The extra longevity is because the shingles will lay down exactly as designed on a flat surface, the old shingles will retain heat, and the new shingles will move more with the expansion and contraction of materials. Besides all this, many shingle manufacturers will not honor their warranty if their shingles are placed on top of old shingles.
The Quality of the Shingles Matter
There are different quality of shingles and this is an important consideration when considering, “how long will my shingle roof last?” Cheaper shingles tend to be thinner, stick less to the surface, release their granules sooner, dry out quicker, etc. Many of the more expensive laminated shingles will last significantly longer because they were crafted to last in more extreme temperatures and through more extensive weather conditions. They also tend to have strengthened nailing areas that hold the nails better. Shingles types and brands matter so choose the best shingles! When deciding which shingle to have on your roof look at their warranties. The limited lifetime or lifetime warrantied shingles are typically better more longer lasting shingles.
