Asphalt shingles are a popular and reliable choice for residential roofing in Canada because they are durable, affordable, and come in a great variety of styles. They are designed to withstand various weather conditions, including high winds, hail, and extreme temperatures which makes them an excellent choice for Canadian homeowners.
Your roof does much more than just cover your house. It protects your home’s structure, helps keep energy bills down, and even affects your home’s value. Understanding the different types of asphalt shingle options and the shingle roof lifespan is essential to make informed maintenance decisions to protect your home.
How Long Do Shingles Last?
The lifespan of asphalt shingles varies depending on the type and quality of the product selected. The following are the most common asphalt shingle options.
3-Tab Shingles: 10-20 Years
3-tab shingles are the most basic and economical option that typically last 10 to 20 years. This type of shingle is thinner and lighter making them more vulnerable to wind and weather damage. While they are a budget-friendly option, they have the shortest typical lifespan among asphalt shingle types.
Architectural Shingles: 20-30 Years
Architectural shingles (sometimes called dimensional or laminate shingles) look great and hold up over time better than basic shingles. They have a typical lifespan of 20 to 30 years and provide better protection and a more textured three-dimensional look. Architectural shingles are also more resistant to wind and weather conditions.
Premium Shingles: 30-50 Years
Premium or luxury shingles are the top-tier option for asphalt roofing and can last 30 to 50 years. They are designed to look like natural materials like slate or wood, offering a high-end style. Premium shingles are manufactured with advanced materials and multiple layers that provide exceptional durability and better wind resistance.
Factors Affecting Shingle Roof Lifespan
The longevity of an asphalt shingle roof is more than simply a matter of time. Many factors determine how long shingles will last.
Quality of Shingles and Materials
Not all asphalt shingles are created equal. High-quality materials from reputable manufacturers can significantly extend your roof’s lifespan. While cheaper options may seem tempting to save money upfront, they could cost more in the long term through frequent repairs and earlier replacements. At C&M Roofing, we use trusted, high-quality shingle brands like Owens Corning and IKO for protection and affordability.
Installation Techniques
Getting your roof installed right matters. Even the best shingles can fail if they’re not put on properly. Proper nailing, shingle alignment, and sealing techniques are essential to ensure your roof’s durability and performance. Our roofing installation guide gives you everything you need to consider when it comes to making decisions about roof installation in Southern Alberta.
Climate and Weather Conditions
Here in Western Canada, our weather is all over the place. Freezing cold winters and scorching hot summers can really beat up a roof. Extreme temperature changes, hail, strong winds, and UV exposure all contribute to the wear and tear of asphalt shingles.
Roof Ventilation and Attic Insulation
Proper ventilation will prevent heat and moisture buildup that can damage shingles from the underside. It’s important to ensure your home’s attic is well-insulated to help regulate temperature which will reduce stress on your shingles.
Maintenance and Care
Regular inspections and prompt repairs can significantly extend your asphalt shingle roof lifespan. Dealing with minor issues early can save money and headaches down the road. Consider creating an annual roof maintenance checklist to stay on top of common tasks that will proactively prevent problems and extend the lifespan of your roof.
Extend Your Asphalt Shingle Roof Lifespan
There are proactive steps you can take as a homeowner to extend the lifespan of your asphalt shingle roof. Consider:
- Conducting regular visual inspections
- Proactive professional roof inspections
- Dealing with repairs promptly
- Ensuring proper attic ventilation
- Keeping gutters clean and well-maintained
- Trimming overhanging tree branches
- Removing moss, algae, and other debris
Signs Your Asphalt Shingle Roof Needs Replacement
Pay attention to these warning signs that your asphalt shingle roof may need replacement:
- Curling or buckling shingles
- Visible cracks or missing shingles
- Significant granule loss
- Recurring leaks or water damage
- Age of the roof approaching or exceeding the typical lifespan
You can also ask yourself the following questions to figure out if it’s time for a roof replacement:
- What’s my roof made of?
- How old is it?
- Is the climate where I live bad for my roof?
- What exactly is wrong with my roof?
- Are the issues repairable?
If you’re not sure when your roof is ready for replacement, it’s always a safe bet to consult professionals. Our experts can determine if your roof needs a repair or a replacement.
Choosing The Right Asphalt Shingles For Longevity
When selecting the right asphalt shingle for your roof, you need to consider several factors including the manufacturer’s reputation for quality and reliability, warranty coverage for both materials and workmanship, long-term durability, budget, maintenance requirements, and aesthetic preferences.
We always recommend choosing high-quality materials for long-term durability and protection.
Climate Considerations for Southern Alberta
When choosing asphalt shingles for a home in Canada, it’s also important to think about the local climate. Our Southern Alberta weather systems–not to mention the wind–are tough on roofs.
During winter, we get extreme cold, but we also get chinooks which can raise the temperature quickly. Any kind of intense temperature change causes roofing materials to wear out faster. You want to make sure you choose quality materials that can withstand our variable climate conditions.
Roofing Warranties
Your roof protects your home and your home is a huge investment. That’s why having a warranty for your roof is so important to protect you from unexpected damages.
There are a few different types of roofing warranties:
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: This warranty comes from the roofing material manufacturer and covers defects in the roofing materials themselves like shingle defects or manufacturing errors. It also may cover instances when weather events cause significant damage to your roof.
- Workmanship Warranty: This warranty covers work done to correct an issue related to improper installation done by your roofing contractor. Roofing companies provide this to help guarantee their handiwork meets certain standards.
- Extended Warranty: There are options to enhance your roof’s protection beyond the standard warranty. This could include warranty coverage for an extended period or for additional roofing issues. Extended warranties may be offered by both manufacturers and contractors.
We’re proud to offer an eight-year warranty for our roofing services that covers installation and workmanship.
Conclusion
Understanding an asphalt shingle roof lifespan is more than just a number of years–it’s about using quality materials, taking care of it, and getting the right professional help when you need it.
At C&M Roofing, we’re dedicated to helping homeowners maximize their roof’s performance and protection.
