Perhaps you’re hiring contractors for a
Pittsburgh roofing replacement and want to know how it will last. Or you’re wondering how much longer your current shingles can hold out. Either way, knowing the lifespan of the top of your house will keep you safe and prevent serious damage to your home. The lifespan of your shingles will depend on several factors, but perhaps the most important is the material used. Some materials simply last longer than others or hold up better in the Pittsburgh weather. So before you call your
Pittsburgh roofing company and just ask for whatever material they have on hand, consider that the material could determine the value of your investment. However, not all materials work for everyone. So here’s a guide to how long Pittsburgh roofing materials last and which may be the best choice for you.
Available Materials
Asphalt Shingles
When properly installed, asphalt shingles can last anywhere between 15 and 30 years. They can withstand severe weather conditions and are also low cost with high reliability. Here’s why they’re one of the most popular types of
Pittsburgh roofing:
- They can cover many shapes and angles, which can be helpful if your roof structure isn’t a typical style.
- Design options. They are available in a range of different architectural styles and colors.
- Fire rating – Their fire rating is Class A.
Wood Shingles
When properly installed and maintained, wood shingles can last up to 30 years. However, they do require more upkeep than other roofing materials. Here’s why your Pittsburgh roofing contractor likes this choice:
- Highly resistant to insects and rot. This is due to high-quality wood like cedar being used for the shingles.
- Aesthetically pleasing. Wood shingles look externally attractive.
- Environmentally friendly. With wood being a natural material, it means that it is good for the environment.
Clay Tiles
Clay tiles are extremely durable, and any roofing contractor in Pittsburgh, PA would recommend them as they have a lifespan of over 50 years. Due to them lasting for so long, they are very costly. However, they require minimal maintenance once you have them installed. Some benefits of clay tiles include:
- Weather-resistant. Clay roofs can withstand severe weather conditions, including high winds, heavy rainfall, snow, and even fire.
- They help maintain the integrity of your roof. This means that both hot and cold weather conditions will not affect your structure.
- Won’t decay. The minerals in clay bind particles of organic material to its surface, which means microbes are less likely to develop.
Metal Roofing
Metal is quickly becoming more popular. This is due to its long lifespan and incredible durability. The material lasts up to 75 years and requires minimal roof repair in Pittsburgh. Here’s why your roofing company may recommend metal:
- It’s extremely safe. Metal roofing is extremely fire-retardant, which means in the event of a fire it will not burn. This makes metal one of the safest materials.
- Energy-efficient. Metal reflects radiant heat from the sun, which means heat gain is reduced. This allows your home to be kept cooler in the summer.
- Increased your property value. Due to the long lifespan and environmentally friendly properties, having a metal roof installed can seriously increase the value of your home.
Other Factors
The material isn’t the only indicator of how long before you’ll need to call a roofer in Pittsburgh for a replacement. First, you must consider what roof repair in Pittsburgh is required and how much of that you’re providing. If you’re not giving the necessary TLC, the material will wear quickly. To be safe, make sure you’re getting a
yearly inspection to protect your investment. Now you must consider the quality of workmanship. If the installation or roof repair in Pittsburgh was poor, the materials won’t last as long as they should. A lacking inspection will also not tell you the underlying problems such as insulation or underlayment issues. The care and you and your contractors put into your home will ultimately determine the lifespan of the shingles and system overall.
Find a Pittsburgh Roofing Contractor You Trust
If you want the strongest material, excellent installation, and expert repairs to keep your home safe, only hire contractors you can trust. They will work hard to install and repair your Pittsburgh roofing, so it lasts for decades to come.
