How Long Do Architectural Shingles Last in illinois?
Architectural shingles are a popular type of roofing in Chicago, IL, and they are considered durable and attractive. Although they are often marketed as “30-year shingles,” the actual architectural shingles life is usually less. Architectural shingles are still a better choice than traditional 3-tab shingles because they last longer and provide better protection against wind and impact. Suppose you’re looking for a roofing company close to me. In that case, we will give you some useful information on how to extend the life expectancy of architectural roof shingles because they can last for more than 30 years if properly maintained.
How Long Does an Architectural Shingle Roof Last – Factors
Although the average life of architectural shingles is 25 years, there is still a difference for different cases, especially in different neighborhoods in Chicago. So let’s look at the main factors that affect the architectural lifetime shingles:
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Quality of Roof Replacement and Installation
Proper installation of shingles is a key factor for their durability. If the shingles are installed by professionals from Chicago in compliance with all the rules, their service life is significantly increased. On the contrary, improper installation can lead to rapid breakage and expensive repairs.
The main aspects of proper installation:
- Accurate nailing – nails must be driven into a specially defined area and flush with the surface of the tile.
2. Installing an underlayment – an underlayment adds an additional barrier against water.
3. Proper ventilation – proper ventilation helps to avoid premature aging of the shingles.
4. Installation of waterproofing elements – proper installation of metal flashing around chimneys and vents.
How Attic Ventilation Effects on Lifespan of Architectural Shingle Roof
Proper ventilation helps to maintain a balanced temperature and humidity level in the attic, preventing the tiles from deteriorating. A survey of professional roofing services in Chicago areas found that improper or absent attic ventilation leads to an average reduction in shingle life of 24%.
Signs of poor attic ventilation:
- Uncomfortably hot upper rooms in summer.
- Formation of ice dams in winter.
- Formation of mold or mildew in the attic.
- Rusting of metal components in the attic.
- Cracked or curled roof tiles.
How Climate and Weather Conditions Impact the Lifespan of Asphalt Shingles
Weather conditions in Chicago also have a significant impact on the durability of shingles. Extreme temperatures and precipitation can accelerate its aging.
Rain, snow, and hail can damage shingles, especially if the drainage system is inefficient. Accumulated snow can put additional stress on the roof and contribute to the formation of ice jams.
In places like Illinois, where there are frequent storms, hail, snow, and even tornadoes, the life of shingles can be shorter due to extreme conditions.
Maintenance Practices to Prolong the Architectural Shingles Lifespan
Quickly addressing minor issues, such as cracked or missing shingles, can prevent water intrusion and more extensive damage. Homeowners in Chicago areas should be vigilant for signs such as loss of granules in the gutters, which could indicate shingle deterioration.
While the initial cost of replacing a roof may seem high, delaying replacement can lead to more expensive repairs due to water damage, structural problems, and reduced energy efficiency. Timely full roof replacement, especially when done by a roofing company close to me, can also increase the sale value of a home and reduce long-term maintenance costs.
Whether you need a simple repair or a complete replacement, our expert team in Chicago is here to help.
Tips for Extending Shingle Lifespan in Chicago
To extend the lifespan of a shingle roof, it’s important to follow a few basic tips. First, regular inspections will help to detect damage in time and prevent serious problems. It is recommended to check the roof at least twice a year – in spring and fall, as well as after severe storms. During the inspection, look for missing, cracked, or bent shingles, loss of granules, moss, or water stains on the ceiling or walls, which may indicate a leak. If you’re doubting your findings, consider reaching out to roofers near me for a professional inspection.
Second, it is important to maintain the roof by cleaning gutters and removing debris. Clogged gutters can lead to water stagnation, which will gradually destroy the shingles. In addition, trimming tree branches that hang over the roof prevents them from being damaged during wind or storms, especially in Chicagoland.
Choose the Best Materials to Prolong Life Expectancy of Architectural Shingles
- Choose shingles made of durable materials, such as high-quality fiberglass asphalt, that have a long roof’s lifespan.
- If Chicago and the suburbs have high winds, choose shingles with a high wind resistance (110-130 mph).
- For regions with hail or falling debris, choose shingles with a high level of impact resistance (class 3 or 4).
- Choose shingles for homes in suburbs that are suitable for your climate – they must be able to withstand extreme temperature fluctuations, snow loads, and ice dams.
- Pay attention to the warranty – high-quality shingles often have a 30-year or more warranty, which includes both materials and labor.
- For regions with hot summers, choose energy-efficient shingles with reflective properties to reduce cooling costs. To find the best options, look for comprehensive roof services near me that specialize in energy-efficient solutions.
Explore our collection of informative and engaging videos on roof repair.
How Long Do Architectural Shingles Last Depending on Factors
Conclusion
So, now you know how long architectural shingles last and how to extend this period. In fact, it all depends on you. To get a maximum lifespan, it is important to ensure proper ventilation and insulation of the attic, trim tree branches hanging over the roof, regularly clean gutters, and remove debris from the roof. Also, one should turn to local roofers near you to determine the state of the roof and receive recommendations on its care or repairs. This way you will be able to find out potential issues on an early basis, receive unbiased recommendations, and make a wise decision for roof care to increase the architectural shingles lifetime.
FAQ
What are the main differences between architectural shingles and 3-tab shingles?
Architectural tiles differ from 3-tab tiles by having a more complex design that imitates natural roofing materials such as tile or slate. It is stronger, more durable, and has a better appearance. Three-tab shingles, while cheaper, are less durable and less aesthetically pleasing, you can read about it in related articles.
Can architectural shingles be installed over an existing roof?
In some cases, it is possible to install architectural asphalt shingles on top of the existing ones. However, it depends on the condition of the roof, its material, and local building codes. Before making a decision, you should consult a specialist.
Are there any warranties available for architectural shingles?
For example, architectural tiles come with warranties that may vary depending on the manufacturer and type of tile. They usually guarantee the durability of the material, resistance to weather conditions, and manufacturing defects. Before buying, carefully read the terms of the architectural shingles warranty.
What are the signs of poor installation, and how can they be corrected?
Signs of poor installation can include cracks, chips, shifting tiles, roof leaks, and uneven lines. Only a specialist can fix such errors. Sometimes it is necessary to replace damaged sections of tiles to increase the architectural shingles life expectancy, and in difficult cases, to completely replace the tiles to get a new roof.
When is it more cost-effective to replace your architectural shingles rather than repair them?
Before deciding to repair or replace a roof, it is best to consult a specialist. They will be able to accurately assess the condition of the roof and offer the best solution. This is usually done when the cost of repair becomes comparable to the cost of replacement.
