Lifespan of an Asphalt Shingle Roof – How Long Does a Roof Last In Illinois?
Asphalt shingles are one of the best materials, relatively inexpensive, durable, and available in many colors, which is why this material is very popular among homeowners in Chicago. But before you install such a roof, you probably want to know how long an asphalt roof lasts. In fact, this is a good question, because there are different types of asphalt shingles and their service life is different. In addition, it is worth knowing the rules of roof maintenance and tips on how to extend the life of the roof. So stay with us and learn some interesting insights!
Types of Asphalt Shingles – What Type of Roof Shingles Choose in Chicago?
In Illinois, the weather demands durable roofing materials like asphalt shingles, which can withstand temperature fluctuations and seasonal storms. There are three main types of asphalt shingles, let’s take a closer look at them:
Excellence is Our Culture
3-tab Shingles
The 3-striped shingle is the simplest and cheapest type of asphalt shingle. It has three stripes on each tile, which gives the roof a smooth appearance. Although manufacturers claim that it can serve up to 25 years, in practice, this asphalt roof’s life is about 15-20 years due to several reasons:
- The thinness of the material
- Vulnerability to weather conditions.
- Less wind resistance.
- The need for regular maintenance.
That is why tiles are popular among homeowners in Chicago neighborhoods looking for budget or temporary roofing solutions.
Architectural Shingles
Architectural (laminated, or dimensional shingles) tiles are a more premium option and serve for 20 to 30 years. It is thicker, has several layers, and gives the roof a three-dimensional appearance. Although the declared asphalt roof’s lifespan can reach 30 years, it will usually last 22-25 years under normal conditions.
Advantages:
- Withstands winds up to 110 miles per hour.
- Imitates expensive materials, such as wood or slate.
- Manufacturers often offer warranties of 30 to 50 years.
Thus, these shingles are a more expensive but worthwhile investment due to their longer service life and attractive appearance.
Chicago Premium Shingles
Premium shingles are the most durable and high-quality option among asphalt roofs. The service life is from 25 to 40 years, and in some cases, it can last up to 50 years. This means that premium shingles can help determine how long your asphalt roof lasts. They are made of high-quality materials such as fiberglass or organic asphalt, making them resistant to extreme weather conditions like those in Chicago.
Advantages:
- Long service life
- Increased resistance to weather conditions
- Improved energy efficiency
- Increased resale value of the home
If you are looking for a durable and aesthetic solution in the Chicago area that will last around 50 years with proper care, choose these shingles.
What’s the Difference Between 20, 30, 40, & 50-year Shingles?
The difference between 20, 30, 40, and 50-year shingles lies in their warranty and overall quality, not their exact service life. The 20-year shingles are usually the thinnest, while the 50-year shingles are the thickest and most durable. The higher category of shingles typically offers better durability. Although these categories suggest a certain service life, most manufacturers now offer a lifetime warranty on their products. However, the level of coverage and duration of full protection may vary.
When considering roof care close to me, start with regular inspections to catch signs of damage early and prolong the life of your roof.
Factors Affecting Lifespan of Asphalt Shingle Roofs
Installation Quality
Have you ever wondered how important the quality of installation is in determining the life of an asphalt shingle roof? Poor installation practices can significantly reduce the durability of a roof and lead to premature wear and tear (yes, even with high-quality materials). Incorrect nail placement, improper tile alignment, and insufficient ventilation are common installation errors. Any of these can jeopardize the integrity of the roof. Therefore, it is better to contact professional roofing contractors right away to save money on possible problems and their solutions.
By choosing premium shingles in Chicago areas, you will get resistance to extreme weather and add to the property’s resale value.
Attic Ventilation
Improper attic ventilation can also play havoc with your roof. A well-ventilated attic helps regulate temperature and humidity levels. This is exactly what you need to extend the life of your roofing materials and preserve them for as long as possible.
Weather and Climate
What about the weather and climate in your region? Roofs in regions with strong winds, hail, or large temperature fluctuations experience more wear and tear. Therefore, it is important to choose materials resistant to your Chicago area’s climate conditions.
Maintenance and Inspection
Don’t forget about maintenance and annual roof inspections. In Chicagoland, regular roof inspections and timely maintenance (spring and fall) help to detect damage at an early stage. Also, debris removal and timely roof repairs can prevent major problems and extend the life of the roof.
Whether you need a simple repair or a complete replacement, our expert team in Chicago is here to help.
Signs You Need a New Roof Replacement
In Chicago suburbs, recognizing the signs of a failing roof early guarantees your home remains protected and well-maintained.
Be sure to pay attention to these signs:
- Cracked, curled, or missing shingles – If the roof has cracked, curled, or missing shingles, it is an indication that the roof is deteriorating. Such problems can occur due to aging materials or weather exposure, and this indicates the need for replacement by professional roofing contractors near you.
2. Loss of granules – Over time, asphalt shingles lose their protective mineral granules, which accelerates their wear. If you notice a buildup of granules in the gutters or exposed areas on the shingles, this signals the need for roof replacement.
3. Roof leaks or water stains in the attic – Water leaks or stains in the attic indicate that the roof is no longer providing adequate protection from water. These problems can lead to more serious damage if not addressed in time.
Life Expectancy – Asphalt Shingles vs Other Roofing Materials
For roofing repairs near me, many experienced contractors offer prompt services to restore the integrity of your roof. But before making the decision, take a look at this table:
Consulting with local roofing experts is the best way to verify your asphalt shingle roof is installed correctly and lasts its full lifespan.
Explore our collection of informative and engaging videos on roof repair.
How Long Does an Asphalt Roof Last and How to Make It Last Longer?
In fact, the service life of your roof directly depends on your decisions and actions. Homeowners across the IL appreciate the affordability and versatility of asphalt shingles for roofing their homes. So here are the top tips to protect your roof and extend its roof lifespan:
- Remove leaves, branches, and other debris from the roof twice a year to avoid moisture accumulation and damage. Keeping your roof clean will help it last as long as possible. It is better to use a soft brush, avoiding aggressive methods such as pressure washing.
- Use special shingle rejuvenation products that can extend the lifespan of your asphalt roof by 5-15 years. These products restore the flexibility and protective properties of the material.
- Regularly inspect your roof for damaged shingles and monitor the condition of the sealing around the ventilation holes. Fixing minor problems in time ensures that your roof should last longer and prevents major repairs. Consider contacting roofer installers near me for professional assistance in maintaining your roof’s condition.
It is also important to choose high-quality materials. Premium materials, although more expensive, provide better protection against extreme weather conditions and last longer.
Cleaning debris from asphalt shingle roofs twice yearly in the Chicago suburbs helps prevent moisture damage and prolongs roof life.
Conclusion – How Long an Asphalt Roof Lasts?
To summarize, let’s go over the main points again. First, invest in quality materials from reliable manufacturers. Secondly, ensure proper installation. Finding professional roofing services close to me provides proper installation and longer-lasting asphalt shingles.
Thirdly, care, and care again. Remember to clean the roof and pay attention to signs of damage. That’s all, now you can have a new and durable asphalt shingle roof!
FAQ
How can I tell if my attic ventilation is sufficient?
If you have condensation, mold, or mildew in your attic, this is a clear sign of insufficient ventilation. Also, if the attic is very hot in summer and very cold in winter, this may indicate ventilation problems. Ideally, the attic should always be kept at a temperature close to the outside temperature.
What are the signs that my shingles are nearing the end of their lifespan?
If you notice cracks, chips, swelling, or loss of granules on the shingles, it may mean that they have already outlived their usefulness. Also, if water stains or fungus appear in the attic, it indicates that the roof is leaking moisture.
What are the best roofing materials for extreme climates?
For extreme climatic conditions, metal or slate roofs are best suited. Metal is very durable, and resistant to moisture and temperature changes. Slate roofs are also very strong, durable, and resistant to moisture.
Can roof rejuvenation treatments extend the life of an old roof?
Yes, roof rejuvenation products can extend the life of an old roof by several years. However, if the roof is very old and has a lot of damage, such products may only be a temporary solution.
How does roof direction (facing north/south) impact its longevity?
South-facing roofs are more exposed to solar radiation, which can lead to faster aging of the material. North-facing roofs heat up less but can become covered with moss and lichen more quickly. The best option is a roof that has the same slope in all directions.
