Difference Between 25 And 30 Year Shingles
If your house is ready for a reroof you might be searching for options and prices. Learning about the difference between 25 and 30 year shingles will help you make the best decision for your next reroof.
The most popular types of asphalt shingles are 25 and 30 year shingles.
There are many shingles manufacturers, but for this comparison we will use Owens Corning brand which is available at Home Depot and Lowes. Quality will vary depending on the brand.
What Are The Different Kinds Of Asphalt Shingles
There are several kinds of asphalt shingles on the market today, and depending on the style, the warranty covering these shingles also changes. You might know the basics, such as 3-tab shingles, which were popular for many years, t-locks, and also dimensional, laminate, and architectural shingles.
Dimensional shingles are the latest wave of shingles and are much more durable than 3-tab shingles. Most of the time, 3-tab shingles are rated as a 20-year shingle, though they usually only last up to 15 years with routine preventative maintenance. Dimensional shingles contain things like fiberglass that is mixed into asphalt layers.
On the other hand, there are architectural shingles. The main difference between dimensional and architectural shingles is that one is more expensive than the other. Placed side-by-side, you will see that dimensional shingles are less fancy in both color and texture. There are also more luxury options of architectural shingles for enhanced durability.
However, whether you choose plain dimensional shingles or luxury architectural laminates that look like slate, you will see that most are rated as a 30-, 40-, or 50-year shingle.
Whats The Difference Between 30
Architectural shingles are divided into two sub-categories based on their limited warranties. By saying this, you might already realize that the difference between a 30-year shingle and a 50-year one is how long the product is guaranteed to last. In other words, 30-year architectural shingles are covered by the manufacturer from any unforeseen defects that could occur once the shingles are installed.
Similarly, 50-year shingles are guaranteed for 50 years they also have enhanced materials to assist with lasting through whatever can be thrown at your roofsevere storms, hail, heatwaves, and more.
Recommended Reading: Do You Need Shingles Vaccine If You Had Chickenpox Vaccine
What Is The Difference Between 30 Year And 50 Year Shingles
As contractors, sometimes our customers ask us for 30 or 50-year shingles or shingles with a 30 or 50-year lifetime. Who wouldnt want a roof that lasts 30 or 50 years?! Unfortunately, thats not what these terms mean, so were going to set the record straight so that you know exactly what youre getting when you get 50-year shingles.
How Do I Get 50
So, there may not be an asphalt roof just yet that will go 50 years without needing replacement, but you can still get a 50-year lifetime shingle roof. Just not from everybody! As mentioned, Proven Contracting is able to offer System Plus, Silver, and Gold Pledge warranties because were GAF Master Elite® certified. Getting the certification requires a lot of hard work.
You need the right insurance and licenses.
- $1M+ Liability Insurance
- State licensing where required and applicable
You need a good reputation and to be trustworthy.
- Good standing with the Better Business Bureau
- Good credit rating per Experian
- Yearly certification renewal
You must be highly skilled.
- GAF trained and certified
- High property owner job satisfaction ratings
- Able to offer the strongest GAF warranties
- A minimum of 7 years experience
If you dont opt for the System Plus, Silver, and Gold Pledge warranties, GAF still offers a 10-year warranty on shingles if you meet certain requirements. If you want the 50-year warranty but need additional funding to get it, well work with you to make sure you can afford the roof you want!
Also Check: What Is Shingles And How Do You Get It
Why Is A Roofing Warranty Important
Replacing your existing roof or having a new roof installed is a huge investment, and you surely want to be protected in case something goes wrong. A roofing warranty protects you from any defects in the roofing materials or faulty installation. If a problem occurs as a result of these things, the warranty will cover it, instead of you having to pay thousands of dollars on repairs caused by improper installation or materials with defects.
When opting for roof replacement or installation, make sure you understand the coverages that come with the installation or materials. At Dunsmore Exteriors as local roofing contractors offer a variety of products and warranty options, and you should ask anything you want to know before choosing the best roofing solution that meets your needs.
How Long Do 50
There are a lot of misconceptions surrounding how long a 50-year roofing shingle could last.
Sure, the product label says it will last you for 50 years, but in reality, installing these shingles in roof systems would last you between 30 to 40 years at best .
Of course, this is possible, provided that your roof is given the proper maintenance and care regularly.
Similarly, 30-year shingles would last you for 25 years and only 12 to 15 years if not cared for.
The largest factor that contributes to your shingle roof life span is weather extremity.
Although 50-year roof shingles can withstand hail, strong winds, and heavy rain, asphalt architectural shingles arent built to withstand a hurricane-prone area or areas where the weather fluctuates regularly.
Installing 50-year shingles for roof systems in Florida, for example, would last a lot less than if you lived in Virginia.
Texas has mostly fair, humid weather, allowing your 50-year shingles to be more ideally suited to the areas conditions.
Don’t Miss: What Over The Counter Cream Is Good For Shingles
A 30 Year Roof Will Last 30 Years Right
Wrong! 30 year shingles also known as laminated, dimensional or architectural shingles typically do not last 30 years. 20, 40, or 50 year shingle will not last their designated years either. It is a common misconception and a point of confusion for many homeowners. Thus, trying to make a responsible decision in a roofing system can become difficult. Lets look at a few areas to inform you and answer your question how long does a roof last?
The Real Lifespan Of A Shingle
Unfortunately, it is a possibility that your shingles may not make it to their expected lifespan. Some contractors would argue that 50-year roof shingles will not actually last you for the full fifty years. Instead, they may fall five to ten years shy of that benchmark.
Improper maintenance means that they may not even last that long. You drastically reduce the lifespan of your roof by not taking the time to care for it properly from the very beginning.
Instead of replacing the entire roof every fifteen years, commit to doing regular maintenance on it. Cleaning the shingles and making repairs as needed are easy ways to extend the lifespan of your roof.
Many people are drawn in by shingles that advertise themselves as algae-resistant. Unfortunately, this is extremely misleading to homeowners who install these shingles, believing that they never need to be cleaned. The reality is that they will only truly be algae-resistant for the first year or two following installation.
Recommended Reading: Do You Have To Go To The Doctor For Shingles
Cost To Install Impact Resistant Shingles
Keep in mind that roof installation costs will actually vary widely depending on your geographic location.
Higher income areas will have labor prices that are up to 20-30% higher compared to lower income areas and about 15-18% higher than the national average prices that are quoted on many online websites that provide roofing estimates.
If you want to get an accurate price estimate based on your geographic location, you can use our dedicated Roofing Shingles Calculator that will provide quotes based on your zip code.
Pro Tip: You should bear in mind that some roofing companies might try to charge you a lot more than necessary to install the impact resistant shingles.
While its true that the shingle itself costs more money, the labor to install the roof should be no different than any other type of asphalt shingles.
On average, the price of upgrading to Class 4 impact-resistant shingles is about $50 per square higher than the cost of your previous shingles.
With that in mind, if a company offers to install its Class 4 shingles for $500 per square, its too much. Dont accept such offers, and try to find another shingle installer.
Again, remember that this an average price and it may be different in your location.
The 3 Signs That Its Time To Replace Asphalt Shingles
Now you know how long asphalt shingles should really last. But the truth is, most homeowners dont keep track of their roofs age.
Thats why you need to know when your roof is telling you its time to replace your asphalt shingles. Lets get to the 3 signs that its time to replace your asphalt shingles.
Also Check: What Stops Shingles From Itching
Are Architectural Shingles Worth The Extra Cost
There are a few reasons that homeowners consider architectural shingles to be worth the extra cost. They are more expensive than their cheaper traditional asphalt shingles counterpart, however they have an average of a 6% return on investment for your homes value and outlast traditional shingles with a 30 to 50 year lifespan. Architectural shingles are the standard for high end homes and they just look better than standard shingles.
Best Impact Resistant Shingles
There are many producers of shingles, but some make better Class 4 impact resistant shingles than others. Heres a list of reliable impact-resistant shingles, and their respective manufacturers:
1. Owens Corning Duration TruDefinition Duration Flex Shingles
Owing to their UL 2218 Class 4 rating, TruDefinition Duration Flex shingles offer you the best hailstorm protection possible. Owens Corning makes them with a blend of modified SBS polymer asphalt. This gives the shingles a rubberizing effect, making them pliable and more flexible.
As a result, the shingles are more durable, tougher, and can withstand more severe storm conditions. Another benefit of these shingles is the nailing technology used in their production.
Namely, Owens Corning uses SureNail Technology, which helps make the shingles extremely durable and strong. Their shingles also feature triple-layer protection, great wind resistance, and outstanding grip.
2. Owens Corning Duration TruDefinition Duration Storm Shingles
TruDefinition Duration Storm shingles also offer reliable roof protection. They feature two patented systems: the SureNail Technology, and the WeatherGuard technology that safeguards against failure due to impact.
Thanks to their fabric strips, the shingles prevent blow-offs due to winds of up to 130 mph. In addition, the shingles can last a lifetime if you maintain them properly.
3. Owens Corning Duration TruDefinition WeatherGuard HP Shingles
4. CertainTeed IR Shingles
IKO Nordic Shingles
Read Also: How Old To Get Shingles Vaccine
How Long Do The 3 Types Of Asphalt Shingles Last
The lifespan of your roof is how many years you get out of it. Each of the 3 types of asphalt shingles come with a specified lifespan from the manufacturer.
3-tab shingles have a lifespan of 25 years and live the shortest of the three types. Dimensional and luxury shingles both have a lifespan of 30 years, but the luxury style has the possibility to go over 30 years and up to 50 under the right conditions.
As long as your asphalt shingles are properly installed and your attic is adequately ventilated, theyre all going to get as close as possible to their manufacturers specified lifespan. However, there are other factors that impact the life of your asphalt shingle roof.
To learn about these factors and how they impact the life of your shingles, read this article on how long your asphalt roof will last.
What Are Lifetime Roof Shingles
Lifetime architectural shingles are covered by a warranty that lasts 50 years. During this period, shingles are covered 100% throughout the first decade of their lifespan. The warranty is then prorated for the following four decades.
These shingles have exceptional durability and can withstand harsh weather without any difficulties. Lifetime shingles are a perfect option if you are looking for a roofing solution that will last as long as the house stands.
Don’t Miss: Can You Get Shingles From Someone With Chickenpox
The Other Roofing Materials Included In Your Asphalt Roof Replacement
Now you know the 3 types of asphalt shingles and how they match up on key factors. Knowing how they compare on lifespan, warranties, and cost helps you understand what youre getting out of your asphalt shingle roof investment.
After reading this, you should be able to decide which asphalt shingle is right for your roof replacement.
But be aware, your asphalt roof is more than just the shingles you see from the street. Your asphalt roof is a combination of different key roofing components and materials to ensure your home stays leak-free.
But what are the other roofing materials that are part of your roof replacement? To help you understand your upcoming asphalt roof replacement, weve already answered that.
The team at Bill Ragan Roofing has provided the residents of Nashville with high-quality asphalt roof replacements since 1990. We take extreme pride in our workmanship and are proud to offer you a lifetime warranty.
Check out 9 Materials Included With Your Roof Replacementto help you better understand the other important roofing materials that are part of your roof replacement.
Three Lies You’ve Been Told About Your Roof Shingles
In the roofing industry, homeowners are told a lot of things about shingles that just arenât true. The three major lies you hear about shingles are:
Weâre going to debunk these myths, and provide a few viable solutions for the best possible roof care.
Also Check: When Is The Shingles Vaccine Recommended
Finding The Right Match For Your Home
The suitability of each of these shingle varieties is also relative. 3-tab shingles are more economical in the short term, so they may be ideal for rental properties and budget homes. Architectural shingles may be a better choice for high-end homes, as well as for homeowners who value aesthetics and longevity over lower initial costs.
The team at Spicer Bros. Construction can help you determine which asphalt shingles might work best for you. Dont hesitate to give us a call at one of the numbers below. You are also welcome to contact us online for further details.
What Are Architectural Shingles
First, since were going to be talking about different kinds of shingles, its important to know a little bit about each type. There are ones called composition shingles, which are thin and cheap and need replacing every decade or so. Asphalt shingles can stay on for twice as long. There are also metal and ceramic roofs that will last a lifetime, if not longer.
Then, there are architectural shingles, which are a premium version of asphalt shingles that have been on the market since the 1970s. Architectural shingles off more color, shapes, and sizes than traditional 3-tab shingles and can add more dimension to a home.
Recommended Reading: How To Relieve Symptoms Of Shingles
What Are Impact Resistant Shingles
Class 4 shingles, also known as impact resistant shingles, or IR shingles can withstand more powerful impacts than any other type of roof shingles.
As a result, they are better able to protect your roof from severe leaks and various types of structural damage that require expensive repairs or early roof replacement.
Class 4 shingles are rated to resist hail impact and are designed to withstand winds of up to 110 mph. This is the highest class of IR or impact resistant shingles you can get.
To obtain this special classification, roofing shingles must undergo very rigorous testing. This test is carried out by the Underwriters Laboratory . The UL came up with the UL 2218 classification alongside the Institute of Business and Home Safety that works in conjunction with roof shingles class ratings.
The name of the test is the UL 2218 Class 4 Impact Rating test. During the procedure, steel balls of different sizes are released onto shingles at 90 mph from heights ranging from 12 to 20 feet. The balls are dropped twice onto the same area.
Depending on how the shingles perform in this test, their impact-resistance classification is determined. To receive a UL Class 4 impact-resistance rating, shingles need to endure two impacts by a 2 diameter steel ball without cracking or showing any other type of damage to its structural integrity.
If the shingles under-perform, i.e. get damaged, they receive a lower rating. Class 1 is reserved for the least resistant shingles.
How Long Do 30
President at Bill Ragan Roofing Company
Architectural asphalt shingles have a manufacturer-specified lifespan of 30 years. So, you probably think youll get 30 years out of your roof.
Unfortunately, this is one of the biggest misconceptions in the roofing industry. The truth is, architectural asphalt shingles wont last the full 30 years.
So, how long will they really last?
For over 30 years, the team at Bill Ragan Roofing has provided unbiased roofing information to homeowners like you. Because of this, I want to give you an honest answer about the lifespan of 30-year shingles.
Ill start this article by answering how long architectural shingles really last upfront. After that, youll learn the 3 signs that its time to replace your shingles.
Also Check: When Should I Get My Second Shingles Vaccine
Year Or 30 Year Shingles Whats The Difference
Are you in the market for a new roof? Do you need to figure out what roof is going to work the best for your home? Trying to decide which roof is the best can be confusing for some, but it doesnt have to be as difficult as one might think. Once you have an understanding of the differences between the shingles, you can make an informed decision on which way to proceed.
Most of the 25-year shingles are a 3-tab shingle that has been out for quite some time now. You might want to think twice about using these particular shingles on your home. To help you understand why, consider this. Most of the architectural shingles arent going to cost you that much more to install. Plus, the 3-tab shingles are also more susceptible to wind damage and being ripped from your roof.
You will find that the majority of different architectural shingle brands come in three different grades. They offer the shingles in either 30-year, 40-year or 50-year grades. On average, you can expect a 30-year shingle to last around 25 years. On the other hand, the 40 and 50-year shingles are going to last you around 30 years on average. You have to consider how much wear and tear your shingles are taking from the elements. Most of the time, manufacturers assume you are going to move out of the home before your 30 years hit.