How Long Do Flat Roofs Last?

Lifespan is one of the main factors you should consider before selecting the kind of flat roof you want. But what factors play a role in determining a roof’s lifespan, and what can homeowners do to ensure their roofs last for many years?

Such are the questions we answer throughout the sections below, so read on if you want to know how long flat roofs last.

To ensure your roof lasts a couple decades at least, you need to maintain it properly every year. Getting routine maintenance at least twice a year from a professional roofing company is recommended.

During a visit, the roofers will inspect your roof to see if there’s any damage. Should they find damage or problems that could lead to damage down the road, they will address these to ensure your roof is in top condition.

Usually, homeowners get roof maintenance services in early spring and late fall—in spring so the roof is ready for the rain and in the winter so it can withstand snow and cold temperatures.

The material used to construct your roof in large part determines how long it will last. The most long-lasting roofing material is slate. This material can last more than 100 years, 150 years if taken care of. TPO and wood are also long-lasting options.

Aluminum coating, on the other hand, will only last three to seven years, whereas basic asphalt shingles can last 20 to 30 years.

Lifespan and price go hand in hand, so expect to pay top dollar for high-quality slate shingles that can last well over a century.

If you live in an area that experiences severe weather multiple times a year, your roof may not last as long as one that doesn’t have to withstand harsh weather conditions every so often.

Specifically, if you’re in an area where hurricanes, blizzards, or tornadoes can occur, you may need roof replacement more often.

Even the general temperature fluctuations that occur throughout the year can wreak havoc on your roof if it’s not maintained well.

The quality of roof installation also impacts the roof’s lifespan. In other words, if the roof was poorly installed, it’s likely it won’t last as long as a similar roof that was installed the right way.

Say, for example, you have an asphalt roof put on your house, but the roofers installed the shingles rather sloppily. It won’t take long before you start to notice roof leaks, and at that point some hard-to-reach places could already be rife with mold.

That’s just one reason why selecting the right roofers is pivotal.

We at Lane’s Contracting Inc. have been working with flat roofs for close to two decades, and we’re experts at flat roof installation, maintenance, inspection, repair and replacement. This is just one of the reasons why we’re leading local roofers.

Call us at (984) 355-9692 or visit us online to get a quote!