Your roof is one of the hardest-working parts of your home. It protects everything—and everyone—under it from rain, snow, wind, and the wear and tear of everyday weather. But like anything else, your roof won’t last forever.
A question we hear all the time at Holthaus Roofing is: “How often should I replace my roof?” The answer isn’t the same for everyone—it depends on the type of roofing material you have, how well it’s been maintained, and the weather conditions it’s been exposed to over the years.
So if you’re unsure whether your roof still has life left or it’s time to start planning for a replacement, this guide will help you understand what to expect.
Lifespan Depends on Your Roofing Material
Not all roofs age the same. Some materials are designed to last decades longer than others. Here’s a quick breakdown of how long different roofing types typically last:
- Asphalt Shingles:
This is the most common roofing material used on homes in Illinois. With proper care, you can expect an asphalt shingle roof to last around 20 to 30 years. - Metal Roofing:
Metal roofs are popular for their strength and longevity. Depending on the type and quality, they usually last 40 to 70 years. - Slate Roofing:
If you’re looking for a roof that might outlast your mortgage—and maybe even you—slate is it. A slate roof can last 75 to 100 years or more. - Stone-Coated Steel:
These roofs offer the durability of metal with the look of shingles or tile. Expect a lifespan of around 40 to 50 years. - Durolast Roofing (Flat Roofs):
A go-to for flat and low-slope commercial roofs, Durolast systems typically last 20 to 30 years with proper maintenance. - GAF TPO Roofing:
Another solid option for commercial buildings, TPO roofs generally last 20 to 30 years depending on the structure and environment.
These are general estimates, of course—how long your roof actually lasts depends a lot on the quality of the installation and the weather conditions in your area.
Signs It Might Be Time to Replace Your Roof
Even if your roof isn’t technically “old,” there are some telltale signs that it may be time to replace it. Here’s what to watch for:
- Shingles that are cracked, curled, missing, or shedding granules
- Water stains on your ceilings or walls
- Sagging spots or dips in your roofline
- Mold, moss, or algae growing on the roof surface
- Higher-than-usual energy bills
- Visible damage after a storm
If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to schedule a roof inspection. Sometimes a few repairs can extend the life of your roof, but other times, a full replacement is the smarter—and more cost-effective—move.
Tips to Help Your Roof Last Longer
You can’t stop time, but you can give your roof a better shot at hitting the upper end of its lifespan. A few simple maintenance habits make a big difference:
- Clean your gutters regularly to prevent water damage
- Trim tree branches that hang over your roof
- Check your attic for proper ventilation and insulation
- Schedule professional inspections once or twice a year
- Take care of small repairs as soon as you notice them
Roofs that are well cared for tend to last years longer than ones that are ignored—plus, catching issues early is usually much cheaper than dealing with emergency repairs.
Don’t Wait Until There’s a Problem
We get it—replacing a roof is a big investment. But waiting until you have a major leak or visible damage could cost you more in the long run. Water can cause serious damage inside your home, from insulation and drywall to electrical systems.
If your roof is getting up there in age or you’ve noticed signs of wear and tear, it’s worth having a pro take a look and help you decide what’s next.
Not Sure Where to Start? We’ve Got You Covered
At Holthaus Roofing, we’ve worked with just about every roofing material out there. Whether you’re not sure how old your roof is or you’re starting to see signs of damage, our team can inspect it and give you honest, expert advice on what to do next.
Contact us to schedule an inspection—we’ll help you make the right choice for your home or business, and your budget.