How Long Do Asphalt Shingles Last?

The roof of your house endures everything from harsh winds, to scorching sun, to rain storms and freezing snow. It’s putting up with a lot - so you won’t have to. If you have a properly installed asphalt shingle roof, you can bet on about 10-30 years of durability. Some of the factors that will affect the longevity of your asphalt shingle roof are the quality of shingles and installation, weather, attic ventilation and maintenance.

Quality of Shingles

Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing materials in North America. There are two main types to choose from: organic and fiberglass asphalt shingles. While they look almost the same and are both made with asphalt and granules, fiberglass shingles are formed on a layer of fiberglass mat which makes them more fire resistant. They are also more water resistant and are less affected by roof ventilation, making them generally last longer in warmer climates. Fiberglass mat shingles can be more brittle and susceptible to damage in cold weather climates like Calgary. 

The base of organic asphalt shingles is made of a paper and tend be be heavier than fiberglass shingles, making them a more durable option for extreme cold temperatures. The low cost of asphalt shingles also add to their appeal. Type aside, Tony William will help you choose choose a top rated shingle in the style and colour you want to match your budget.

Proper Installation and Warranty

One of the best ways to ensure that your roof lasts as long as possible is to hire the right contractor to do the job. High quality and proper installation will maximize your roofs effective life. A good contractor will make sure to properly remove old shingles, use weather sheathing, ensure adequate attic ventilation through soffit and generally invest the time needed to properly install your asphalt shingle roof in Calgary. They will also provide you with a warranty on their work. For example, Tony William Roofing & Exteriors provides a 10-year warranty on roofing installation, because we know we do our job right the first time around.

Shingles Maintenance and Durability

While asphalt shingles are a great budget conscious choice, Calgary weather can be hard on your roof. Harsh winds, strong snowstorms and heavy rains can all reduce the longevity of your shingle roof. That said, there are a few ways that you can extend the roof’s lifespan. You should regularly perform roof inspections and maintenance, which will prevent small issues from growing into large repairs.

Signs That Your Shingles Need Replacing

Asphalt shingle roofs will show signs of wear and tear over time. Here are some things you might notice on and around your roof, signalling the need for roof repairs or replacement:

• Shingles curling up at the edges
• Surface granules that have worn off the shingles
• Shingles that break off on windy days
• Cracked shingles
• Algae, moss or dark stains
• Discolouration, particularly on south facing sides

While some issues can be resolved with simple repairs, it’s hard to know for sure without professional evaluation.

Tony William for all your Calgary Roofing 

Asphalt shingle roofs can last for decades if properly installed and maintained. But when you see signs of wear and tear, it’s important to get a professional inspection and make the necessary roof repairs, before there is more serious structural damage. With Tony William as your partner, you’ll have a trusted contractor to provide you with high-quality roofing services in Calgary.

Not sure if your roof needs to be replaced? Call us at 403-454-1366 for a free assessment!

https://www.tonywilliam.com/roofing-calgary/asphalt-shingles-durability

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