If you’ve just replaced your roofing, or if you’re deciding between roofing materials, you’re probably wondering how long it’s going to last. Roofing installations or replacements are big investments! Choosing the right material for your home and budget is crucial to having a long-lasting, durable roofing system.
Organic asphalt shingles: Made from a paper or felt base that is saturated with asphalt, organic shingles are typically thicker and more durable than fiberglass shingles. However, they are also more prone to moisture absorption and become brittle over time. The average lifespan of organic shingles is between 20 - 25 years
Fiberglass asphalt shingles: This type of shingle is made from a woven fiberglass mat and has a coating. Fiberglass shingles are less prone to moisture absorption and hold up better during extreme weather. The average lifespan of fiberglass shingles is between 25 - 30 years although some higher-end shingles last up to 50 years.
| Asphalt Shingle Type | Material | Average Lifespan |
| Organic | Paper or felt base saturated with asphalt | 20 to 25 years |
| Fiberglass | Woven fiberglass mat coated with asphalt and other materials | 25 to 30 years (some up to 50 years) |
Steel roofing: Made from galvanized or galvalume steel, steel roofing is a popular choice for its durability and affordability. Steel roofing lasts between 20 - 50 years, depending on the thickness of the steel and the quality of the installation.
Copper roofing: Copper roofing is a premium option, valued for its beauty and longevity. Copper roofing lasts for over 100 years with proper care, although it is also the most expensive type of metal roofing on the market.
Zinc roofing: Zinc roofing is a durable and attractive option that is gaining popularity in residential and commercial applications. Zinc roofing lasts between 50 - 100 years or more, depending on factors such as the thickness of the material and the quality of the installation.
| Metal Roofing Type | Average Lifespan |
| Steel | 20 to 50 years |
| Aluminum | 30 to 50 years |
| Copper | 100+ years |
| Zinc (less common) | 50 to 100 years |
| Tin (less common) | 20 to 40 years |
Concrete tiles: Concrete tiles are a more affordable alternative to clay tiles and can mimic the look of other roofing materials such as wood or slate. Concrete tiles can last between 30 - 50+ years, depending on the quality of the installation.
Slate tiles: Slate tiles are a premium option, valued for their beauty and longevity. Slate tiles last 100+ years with proper care, but are the most expensive type of tile roofing.
Synthetic tiles: Synthetic tiles are made from materials such as plastic or rubber and are designed to mimic the look of natural materials such as clay or slate. Synthetic tiles last between 20 - 50+ years, depending on the quality of the material.
| Tile Roofing Type | Average Lifespan |
| Concrete | 30 to 50+ years |
| Slate | 100+ years |
| Synthetic (plastic or rubber) | 20 to 50+ years |
| Clay (warmer climates) | 50 to 100+ years |
Cedar shakes: Cedar shakes are a popular type of wood roofing, known for their durability, resistance to insects and decay and natural beauty. Cedar shakes last between 20 - 40 years or more with proper maintenance and care.
Redwood shakes: Redwood shakes are another type of popular wood roofing and offer a unique and attractive appearance. Redwood shakes are resistant to insects/decay and last between 30 - 50 years or more.
Pine shakes: Pine shakes are a more affordable option and provide a similar look to cedar or redwood shakes. However, pine shakes are less durable and require more frequent maintenance than cedar or redwood shakes. Pine shakes typically last between 15 to 25 years.
| Wood Shake Roofing Type | Average Lifespan |
| Cedar | 20 to 40+ years |
| Redwood | 30 to 50+ years |
| Pine | 15 to 25+ years |
One of the most important elements to consider when choosing a roofing system is climate. Wisconsin experiences a range of weather conditions throughout the year, including heavy snowfall in the winter and occasional severe storms in the summer. As such, it's important to choose a roofing material that can withstand these weather conditions and provide long-lasting protection for your home. Asphalt shingles are a common, affordable option and do well against Wisconsin weather. Metal roofing is typically more expensive, but lasts longer than asphalt roofs in Wisconsin. Another advantage is its energy efficiency which comes in handy during the long winters. Slate and tile roofing also have advantages, but are much less common in Wisconsin.
