Many Floridians worry about the lifespan of their roof. No roof lasts forever. However, there are some ways to estimate when a roof needs to be replaced. Asphalt and tile roofs may not last as long in Florida as they do in other states due to the extreme weather conditions.

Average Lifespan

• Due to their affordability and performance, shingles are the most common roofing material used in Florida. Asphalt shingles are available with a 20-30 year warranty, but they are not as durable in Florida. High-quality architectural shingles have a life expectancy of between 15 and 20. Three-tab shingles, however, can last 10 to 12 years.
• Florida tile roofs can last anywhere between 25 to 50 years. If they are well maintained, they can last even longer. If installed correctly, they can withstand damage from high winds and sea spray as well as UV exposure.

How can you reduce the lifespan of your roof?

The key factors that determine the frequency of roof replacement are listed below.

• Florida’s weather is prone to hurricanes and tropical storms during the rainy season, along with extreme heat. Salt spray, high humidity and heat can damage your roof. Extreme weather conditions may cause your roofing material to crack or loosen. This can compromise the structural integrity.
• Exposure to UV Rays. Extended exposure to extreme heat may cause roof materials to be thermally shocked. This can cause expansion and contraction. This can cause material to tear, crack or curl.
• Neglecting roof maintenance can cause more problems and lead to faster wear. Mold and leaks can shorten the lifespan of your roof by several years. Neglecting maintenance can result in the loss of warranty coverage and material degradation.
• Insulation and ventilation

How to extend the life of your roof

A roofing system that is properly maintained will last longer. Here are some things you can do to extend the life of your roof.

• Keep your gutters clean to prevent water damage.
• Remove leaves and other debris. Remove leaves and other debris from your roof using a garden hose or leaf blower. Pressure washing, however, can damage the roof. Trim branches near your roof to reduce the amount of leaves that land on it. This will also prevent damage caused by falling tree limbs.
• Ventilate the attic to allow humid air to escape and prevent mold growth.
• Have your roof inspected by professionals annually to catch minor problems early. To prevent these problems from getting worse, you should address them immediately.

This post was written by Reggie Reed! Reggie is a state-certified roofing contractor and co-owner of Reggie Reed Roofing, the best Pinellas County commercial roofing company. He is a 4th generation roofing contractor. RR Roofing offers a wide variety of roofing services for residential homes, apartment complexes, condos, commercial buildings, churches, and more. Reggie enjoys dedicating his spare time to helping underprivileged youth in his community and traveling with his family and friends.