When choosing the roofing material for your roof,

take the roofing material's lifespan into account because this dictatesthe overall lifespan of the roof. And that impacts long term cost.

Roofing style, materials, and the climate in the area where the home is located are amongst the factor that affect a roof's lifespan. It's generally best to select roofing products that have nearly the same lifespan to avoid piece by piece repairs throughout a ten to fifteen year period. In most cases, roofing materials last for about twenty years. That assumes proper maintenance and no significant weather damage. Some materials have a lifespan of as much as 50 years while some others last as little as 10 years. Here are some of the common roofing materials and their lifespans.

A properly maintained asphalt roof will last between 15 and 20 years. Because of the low cost of the materials and the ease of repairs asphalt roofing materials are one of the most common types of roofing materials used throughout the nation.

The average lifespan of fiberglass roofing is from 15 to 20 years. Fiberglass roofing requires little maintenance and can be manufactured in many different colors and styles to give the homeowner the desired look. Fiberglass roofs resist water and mold because they don't have organic components.

Many homes in the northeastern portion of the nation use wooden shakes and shingles. These roofing materials will generally last between 15 and 20 years, and could last for as many as 30 years if the shakes and shingles are well maintained.

Slate roofing materials are some of the longest lasting roofing products on the market, with an average lifespan of 40 to 75 years.

Metal roofing lasts nearly 50 years. Metal roofs come in a variety of colors, finishes and styles, and can even resemble tiles and wooden shingles. These roofing products are nearly indestructible from weather and can be installed over the current roof.

A less well known option is rubber roofing. It's easy to install, easy to maintain, and long lasting. It can be a single sheet cut to fit the roof or shingles. In 1980 the very first rubber roof was installed. It was in Wisconsin. It's still doing its job after nearly 30 years.

Roofing materials come in many varieties and styles. Pick the one that's right for you.