Just because a roof is classified as a flat roof that is a roof with a slope of less the 2 12 does not mean it is a modified bitumen roof.
How long should a bitumen roof last.
Regardless of how the material is applied self adhesive sheets hot mopped asphalt or cold applied adhesives the seams are usually melted together which help stop leaks.
The average expected life of a metal roof is between 30 and 50 years although a well maintained metal roof may last longer than 50 years.
A ribbed metal panel roofing system featuring concealed fasteners will offer a longer lifespan ranging from 30 to 50 years depending on the environment.
While many types of roofs last longer than 15 years some can hold up well for 50 years or longer barring a serious storm or a large fallen tree.
Bitumen roofs are one of the longer lasting types of flat roofing materials easily lasting 20 years or more.
Here is what you should know about the lifespan and performance of asphalt shingles.
But how can this be you say.
The more premium designed asphalt shingles can last up to 50 years.
If your roof is made out of copper or aluminum performance of more than 75 years is not uncommon.
Typically a 30 year roof will last on average 12 15 years in more extreme climates such as we have here in texas.
Other factors that can influence how long an asphalt roof lasts include the roofing underlayment ventilation and quality of installation.
With proper installation you can expect a 25 to 40 years lifespan from a ribbed metal roof with exposed fasteners.
How quickly and frequently asphalt shingles have to be replaced depends on the style of shingle chosen location and the severity of storm damage they sustain.
To properly identify a modified bitumen roof you can look at the featured image of this post or the pictures below.
25 year roofs lasting 9 12 years on average.
What affects their lifespan and causes damage.
On average asphalt shingles can be expected to last less than 20 years depending on where you live and the type of weather that your roof is regularly exposed to.
Of course roof longevity is in no small part based upon the climate of the prevailing area and the amount of wear and tear that occurs over the course of the years.
Modified bitumen roofs are reputed to last anywhere from between twelve to twenty years.
Not surprisingly cheaper roofing materials won t.
Cleaning and maintenance can also play a role.