Roof construction has changed over time, with newer installations becoming more sturdy than ones from previous years. You might ask yourself, “How long does a roof last now?” While you can generally expect a shingle roof to last around 20 years, this depends on various factors.

Our team at Sundown Exteriors of Bloomington, IL takes the local climate and conditions into account when we estimate your roof lifespan. Several things can alter the longevity of your roof, from materials to environmental factors. Let’s take a close look below.

If you think your roof has seen better days, call us at (309) 275-6801 for a free roof replacement estimate!

Top Factors That Affect The Lifespan of Your Roof in Illinois

Local Climate and Weather Conditions

The continental climate of Illinois contributes to many potentially severe weather conditions. Year-round storms, floods, hail, snow and tornadoes can wreak havoc on any type of roof. Even in pleasant weather, UV light can discolor and weaken certain roofing materials, like asphalt.

Because your roof is your home’s first line of defense against inclement weather, sturdiness should come first and foremost. Local roofing companies should have the knowledge and expertise necessary to make a roof last. Methods to defend against weather conditions can include using a specific type of roofing material, waterproofing, and more.

If your roof has storm damage, contact Sundown Exteriors immediately for a free inspection. We’ll work with your insurance to get you the repairs you deserve!

Roofing Materials, Pitches, and Strengths

A big part of the answer to “how long does a roof last” depends on the materials. Different kinds of roofing can withstand certain weather conditions better than others. The roof’s angle can also affect how well the materials stand up to the local climate.

Some materials and roof pitch angles have strengths and weaknesses. For example, flat roofs can handle wind storms but can retain snow that could lead to ceiling leaks.

Metal roofing can last 50 years or more if a natural disaster doesn’t occur. However, these roofs can cost thousands more than shingles or wood shakes. Similarly, though slate roofs have high curb appeal and can last for years, their fragility, weight, and cost deter some homeowners.

Speak with your roof designer about your desires to find out how to minimize the weaknesses of your chosen roofing materials. They should be able to help you reduce costs, improve your protection, and ensure your home maintains good ventilation.

Regular Roof Maintenance, Plus a Checklist

Even the most sturdy materials can fail quickly without proper maintenance and upkeep.

A few chores can help extend your roof’s lifespan. Larger roofs in shaded locations will need maintenance checks more often than others. Complete these activities annually, biannually, or quarterly, or hire an expert to finish them for you:

• Ensure you have clean gutters well attached to the house.
• Use a bspecialized solution to wash the roof and prevent algae growth in wooded or shaded areas
• Check for missing or dented shingles, slates, or slabs, and call a professional to replace them.
• Review the roof and attic walls for leaks or cracks and repair them as quickly as possible.
• Ensure the roof vents do not have blockages, and check how much insulation you have.
• Trim branches that hang over the property to reduce the chance of damage.

You should check your roof annually at minimum but especially after a severe storm. Leaving roof problems to sit allows worse issues to develop.

The Company Who Installed Your Roof

A roof lasts longer when you have an experienced professional team install it. Technicians must watch over the other factors while installing and securing your roof. If they fail to monitor these conditions and circumstances, you may require a roof replacement sooner rather than later.

For example, technicians should install roofs on warm and dry days with temperatures above 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Anyone installing a roof during winter days colder than that, will cause shingles to break or crack.

Additionally, they should work efficiently and quickly to reduce the chances of moisture damage. Roof installations inevitably expose the parts under the roof to the elements. If they take too long, moisture can build up in the attic or under the roof, leading to interior damage.

Installers who don’t know these rules or tips can cause more harm than good. Try researching who you want to choose as your technician to increase the likeliness of a long-lasting roof.

Maximize Your Roof Lifespan with Sundown Exteriors

Sundown Exteriors cuts no corners when installing, repairing, and maintaining rooftops in Normal, IL, and surrounding areas. Our customer support team answers all questions to the best of our ability. When you want to know “how long do roof installations take” or “how long does a roof last,” we have the answers.

For roofing that will last for years on end, call Sundown Exteriors at (309) 275-6801. We proudly serve Bloomington, Normal, Lincoln, Pontiac, and the surrounding cities in Illinois.