No one likes having to pay for home repairs, especially when it comes to the more expensive parts of your home like a new roof.

Roofing isn’t cheap, but a well-applied roof should last for a long time. Here in Oklahoma, though, we have a unique set of circumstances that can shorten the lifespan of your roof.

Let’s take a look at life expectancies for different roofing materials, some factors that can shorten those, and how to know when it’s time to get your roof replaced.

Shingles

Most of the roofs in Oklahoma are made of various types of shingles. The lowest grade of shingle is three-tab, which is not used a lot in Oklahoma because of the very low wind rating. They’re the ones that look completely rectangular, which you may have seen on trailer homes. These can last from ten to twenty years, but in windy areas or areas with high temperature variance, the lifespan can be dramatically shorter.

Most houses in this area have architectural or dimensional shingles, which are made of multiple shingle layers. They’re more durable than three-tab and have a higher wind rating, which makes them the most cost-effective choice for many Oklahoma roofing applications. They usually last from fifteen to 25 years.

Finally there are premium shingles, which are used on higher-end homes. These are thicker and fancier-looking, and they can last from twenty to 30 years. Some also have special properties like reflectivity or impact resistance, which can help cushion against the worst environmental factors that shorten the life of a roof.

Metal

There are multiple different kinds of metal roofing, including standing seam, ribbed metal, and metal shingle. These are all very durable with ribbed metal occasionally lasting a little shorter time depending on the installation method. In general, metal roofs should last between 30 and 50 years.

Tile

Tile roofs aren’t often seen in Oklahoma. They require more bracing to deal with the weight of the roof, but if your home can stand it, they have very good durability. Clay tile roofs can last anywhere from 50 to 100 years. Concrete tile comes in slightly lower at 40 to 75 years.

Other roofing materials

Slate is one of the best and most expensive roofing materials with very high durability. It can last between 50 and 100 years.

Composite shingle systems can last between 30 and 50 years, but those systems cost more than regular shingle roofs.

Cedar shingle or shake roofs are more common on the coasts, and they’re designed to last twenty to 35 years. They require some maintenance, however, and can last longer if properly taken care of. Wind uplift ratings depend fairly heavily on installation.

There are some other options for flat roofs, but those are typically found in commercial roofs rather than residential applications.

What can shorten the lifespan of my roof?

Oklahoma isn’t a great place to live if you’re a roof. Wind is one of the worst offenders for tearing up a roof, and high winds are common here. In addition, the frequent temperature fluctuations cause the shingles to expand and contract, which causes cracks to form over time. Ice can form in these cracks in the winter months and cause the cracks to expand. Proper installation can help, but roof lifespans in Oklahoma tend to be short.

How can I tell if my shingle roof needs to be replaced?

There are quite a few signs that can indicate it’s time to replace your roof:

• Cupped or curled shingle edges

• Bald spots without granules

• Visible cracks

• Age or visible wear

Another key sign that your roof might need to be replaced is when your neighbors are getting new roofs. Most homes in a neighborhood are built around the same time, and the roofs will begin to wear out around the same time as well.

If you think your roof is approaching the end of its life, call us at 405-359-3951 or send an email to info@landroofingokc.com to schedule a free roof inspection.