What is the Typical Minnesota Roof Lifespan?

The longevity of a roof depends on many factors. First, what kind of material is the roof made out of? Here is the expected lifespan of several popular types of materials:

• Slate shingles: Slate shingles have the longest lifespan – though expensive, these materials can last a century!
• Asphalt shingles: Asphalt shingles, some of the most common roofing materials, last for around 20 to 25 years.
• Cedar shingles: Cedar shingles last for around 18-22 years but this varies depending on the build.
• Fiberglass shingles: Fiberglass shingles last around as long as asphalt shingles, about 20 to 25 years. They also offer more fire protection.
• Metal roofs: Roofs made out of high-quality metals, like steel or aluminum, can last 50 years or more. Copper and zinc can last twice as long!

There are other factors that impact how long a roof will last, too, such as how consistent you are in maintaining it and what the weather is like. Here in Minnesota, we have a tough climate to contend with. From frigid winters with lots of snow to wet, rainy weather in the spring and high winds year-round, our roofs really take a beating!

There’s nothing quite like living in Minnesota, but unfortunately, the presence of our unique environmental challenges may mean that the average estimates for roof longevity listed above might be slightly less for those of us in the North Star State.

Signs of Roof Damage

There are a few things that you’ll want to keep an eye out for when you’re thinking of repairing or replacing your roof. Here are some of the most obvious.

Unknown Sources of Sunlight

Do you have beams of sunlight streaming into your attic? It might look romantic and beautiful  – but if you can’t figure out how the sun is getting in, there might be a gap in your roof.

Leaks

Leaks are a pretty obvious sign that there’s something wrong with your roof. If you notice drips or unexpected wet spots – especially after a storm – you need to do a roof inspection ASAP.

Black Gutter Granules

One sign that people aren’t usually aware of is the appearance of black speckles in the gutter. These might appear near the roof. These granules are washed off the shingles when the roof is damaged by heavy precipitation like hail.

Buckling

If you’ve noticed your roof decking buckling, that’s a serious problem. There shouldn’t be spots on your roof that aren’t flat (unless they’re architecturally engineered this way, of course) or any that look buckled in or dented.

If you see areas that look like this, the problem might not be just with your roof – but also the decking below. This is usually the result of an unaddressed leak that led to rot and serious structural damage.

Missing Shingles

If you notice any missing shingles, it’s time to get the roof fixed. In Minnesota, correctly installed roofs should stay put since they’re installed with a hurricane nail pattern. A few missing shingles here or there isn’t major emergency, but you should get them taken care of soon to help your roof last longer.

How to Help Your Roof Last Longer

So, how long does a roof last? The answer to this question largely depends on the type of roofing material used and the climate conditions in your area.

The best way to help your roof last as long as possible is to inspect it regularly. Troubleshoot smaller problems as you notice them. While a tiny crack here or a missing shingle there might not seem like a big deal now, it can become a major problem later on if it’s left unaddressed. An annual inspection is ideal.

With regular maintenance, a Minnesota roof can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years or more. If you’re a homeowner, it’s important to keep an eye on your roof and schedule regular inspections and repairs as needed. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your roof lasts for many years to come.

If you want to make sure you get the longest lifespan out of your roof as you can, you need to trust in the best.

Call Ashton McGee Restoration Group. We’re not only innovative, helping to come up with the best solutions to make your roof last as long as possible, but we’re also honest. We won’t sell you anything you don’t need – but we’ll make sure your roof is properly taken care of.

Want a roof that keeps you safe – and covered? We got this, y’all.