There’s a reason asphalt shingles remain the number one choice of both roofing companies and homeowners alike. They are durable, long lasting and affordable. Some high-end shingles are even comparable to other more “superior” roofing materials like metal and cement tiles in terms of performance and energy efficiency.

Unfortunately, despite their many merits, asphalt shingle roofs are far from being the perfect roofing material. In fact, modern technology has yet to develop a roofing system that lasts indefinitely against anything and everything nature can throw at it. Regardless, it’s important to remember the factors that can affect the longevity of your shingle roof.

Shingle Quality

In most cases, price determines quality. There are occasions when this is not true, but it’s worth noting that shingles that test well against others are usually more expensive. They are designed to need fewer emergency leaking roof repair services than their competition and can last longer. Quality varies between manufacturers and, sometimes, even within different lines from the same manufacturer. Talk to your contractor about different shingle qualities before making a decision.

Slope of the Roof

Pitch is the measure of how angled the panels of your roofing system are. Flat roofs are more exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and more prone to water exposure so they tend to have shorter lifespans than their sloped counterparts.

Climate and Weather

Climate also plays a role in how long your asphalt shingles will last. Thermal cycles can break down the asphalt particles over time, and these are determined by weather conditions your roof experiences.

Maintenance

The value of getting regular roofing maintenance services cannot be understated. In fact, a well-maintained roof can last years beyond its estimated life span.

Get high-quality asphalt shingle roof installations from Exterior Building Solutions, your leading provider of roofing, siding and exterior renovation services. Fill out our contact form and request a free estimate today. We serve homeowners in Arnold as well as other neighboring communities in Missouri.