The roof over a commercial building is vital, but it often goes overlooked until something goes awry. Don’t let problems with your commercial roof catch you off guard. By knowing how long your roof will last, you can plan for maintenance and replacement well in advance, saving time and money and preventing stress. If you want to know what the life expectancy of your commercial roof is, read on to learn more.
How Long Will My Commercial Roof Last?
So what’s the life expectancy of your commercial roof? On average, a commercial roof will last 10 to 40 years. But there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The life expectancy of a roof depends on several factors, from the roof material to where you live to how well you maintain your facility.Types of Commercial Roofs and Their Life Expectancies
The material you use for your commercial roof will dramatically affect its life span. See the average life expectancy for various roof types below:- Asphalt shingles: The most common roofing material in the US. On average, a roof made from asphalt shingles will last between 15 and 30 years.
- Metal: A popular choice for commercial buildings. Metal roofs will last an impressive 40 to 70 years.
- EPDM: This durable rubber material will last you 22 to 35 years.
- TPO: Typically, TPO roofs last 22 to 30 years.
- PVC: You can expect a PVC roof to last anywhere from 20 to 30 years.
Other Factors That Can Influence Life Expectancy
The material is the main factor that will influence your roof’s longevity, but it’s not the only factor at play. Other factors that affect the life expectancy of a roof include:- Local weather: If your area is prone to heavy storms or extreme temperatures, your roof will degrade more quickly than a roof located in an area with a milder climate.
- Maintenance: Performing annual maintenance is crucial if you want to keep your roof in good shape. Neglecting maintenance can quickly lead to issues that can then spiral out of control.
- Installation: Improperly installing a roof will dramatically shorten its life. Choosing a reliable contractor is important!
- Slope: Flat roofs are more prone to ponding. Pooled water can eat away at the roof and cut its life short.
- Coatings: A coated roof will last longer than a roof that isn’t coated. Coatings can easily boost the life expectancy of a roof by 10 or more years.
