What Roofing Material Lasts the Longest?

You want your roof to last forever, and with some materials – it just might. It’s pretty widely known that the average roof lasts around 20 years, and that’s due to the fact that most roofs are made up of typical asphalt shingles. They are a pragmatic and safe choice, with warranties of premium brands such as Certainteed Roofing extending several decades. With that said, asphalt is meant to be easily replaced and even re-roofed. If you are looking for something more unique, some materials can last 40, 50, 80, or even 100+ years if you’re willing to pay a little extra for premium materials.

Metal – A Long-Lasting Roofing Material

Metal is an exceptional roofing material to last quite long. Metal is expected to last about 40 to 80 years, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors. The Metal Roofing Alliance approximates metal roofs to last about 40 to 60 years. Today’s metal roofs are more durable than old ones you could find in rural barns and rural homes. Besides the roofs of those old days still standing up today, modern roofs provide an even higher-quality finish and do not fade as much due to corrosion resistance.

Slate – An even Longer-Lasting Roofing Material

Slate roofs are expected to last longer than metal roofs on average. Slate as a roofing material is rated for about 100 years or more by the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors and the National Association of Home Builders. Since slate is a type of stone, it’s quite resistant to corrosion, insects, fire damage, water damage, deterioration, and damage from sun exposure. There are lots of slate roofs today that have been used in Europe for hundreds of years, and many of them are in good condition.

Concrete – Perhaps the Longest-Lasting Roofing Material

Concrete roofs have the possibility of lasting hundreds of years or more, by virtue of expecting to perform better than slate roofs. Concrete is mixed with clay to form an even more durable roofing material. The combination of clay, which usually lasts about 50 years, with concrete results in a lighter yet tougher roof. Due to this, concrete roofs can be virtually indestructible under normal conditions. If they are expected to work better than slate, which was even used hundreds of years ago and works well today, then a concrete roof might stand multiple tests of time.

Need Help Finding the Longest-Lasting Roofing Material?

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