What Roofing Material Lasts the Longest?

While it's true that no roofing material lasts forever, there are some roofing materials that can even outlast how long you live in your home. 

Choosing the right roofing material is one of the most important decisions you can make for your home, which is why our team at McClellands Contracting and Roofing, LLC, is ready to help you find a long-lasting roofing solution for your needs. 

If you are confused about the right roofing material for your home, feel free to call us today at (412) 353-5660 to speak with one of our professionals.

#1 Slate Roofs

When you're looking for the longest-lasting roofing material available, slate stands out as the most durable option. Natural slate tiles can last an impressive 75 to 150 years. or even longer. This is why it’s often called the "forever roof."

Slate provides you with much more than just longevity. This beautiful natural stone comes in various colors and textures, making it easy to match your home's style. 

It's completely fireproof and can handle harsh weather conditions, making it a worthwhile choice if you live in an area with chilled winters or frequent storms.

Unfortunately, since it’s a premium choice, it’s also the most expensive on the list. Your roofing structure will also need to be strong enough to support its heavy weight. While the initial cost is high, many homeowners find that the slate's incredible lifespan makes it a worthwhile investment for their home.

#2 Clay and Concrete Tiles

Clay and concrete tiles are your next best options for long-lasting roofing materials, with both generally lasting 100 years or more. 

Clary roofing materials have proven their worth time and time again through their use. Just look at the beautiful tile roofs that have protected European homes for generations.

Clay tiles work really well in hot and sunny climates because they naturally reflect sunlight, keeping your home cooler and reducing your need to use your AC. They're also completely fireproof and resist damage from insects and rot. Concrete tiles provide similar benefits, but they come at a lower price point than clay tiles.

Just like slate, both clay and concrete tiles are heavy, so your roofing structure might need to be reinforced in order to prepare for the weight of your new roofing material. While they may cost more upfront than some other options, their decades-long lifespan and minimal maintenance requirements make them a smart investment for your home.

#3 Metal Roofs

Metal has also become increasingly popular among homeowners looking for a long-lasting roofing material that provides excellent value. With a lifespan of 40 to 80 years, metal roofs provide outstanding durability without adding any extra weight to your home, reducing costs associated with replacement.

You'll find metal roofs in various styles and materials such as standing seam and corrugated, or copper and galvanized steel. In fact, copper panels can last more than 70 years while developing a beautiful patina over time.

No matter the weather, metal roofs are a durable option that can handle everything, including heavy snow, high winds, and hail. One of the particularly great things about metal roofing systems is its energy efficiency. It reflects sunlight rather than absorbing heat, which can help lower your overall cooling costs during the summer months. 

While, again, the initial cost of metal roofs is higher than basic asphalt shingles, the long lifespan and energy savings often make a metal roof a cost-effective choice.

#4 Synthetic Slate and Cedar Shakes

If you love the look of natural slate or wood shakes but want something more affordable, synthetic options might be perfect for you. 

These materials generally last 50 to 70+ years and provide nice durability while costing less than their natural counterparts.

Synthetic materials are made to resist severe weather, UV damage, and insect problems, and most manufacturers provide 50-year warranties, showing their confidence in the product's longevity. 

Both these roofing materials are also lighter than natural slate, which means you might not need to reinforce your roofing structure.

How to Choose the Right Roofing Material For Your Home

When choosing the longest-lasting roof for your home, you should always consider these important things!

👉 Climate and Weather

Your local weather patterns should influence your final choice. Some materials can handle snow and ice better, while some may work well in hot, sunny conditions.

👉 Aesthetic Goals

Your roof makes up a large part of your home's appearance. Choose a material that complements your home's architectural style.

👉 Home Structure

Always make sure that your home can support the weight of your chosen material. Some options, like slate and clay tiles, require additional structural support.

👉 Budget and Return On Investment

While thinking about the initial cost is important, the long-term value is crucial to think about as well. A more expensive roof that lasts twice as long might actually save you money over time.

👉 Maintenance Requirements

Consider how much maintenance you're willing to do. Some materials need regular care to reach their maximum lifespan.

Why Is It Important To Hire A Professional For Your Roofs?

No matter what roofing material you choose, proper installation is very important to maintain the integrity and lifespan of your roofs. Any roofing material that’s not installed properly can become damaged prematurely, which is why it’s so necessary to hire someone experienced. 

While doing the job yourself might make you feel as if you’re saving money, lack of experience can cause unwanted problems that are hard to manage yourself.  

How Do You Maintain The Lifespan Of Any Roofing Material?

To keep your roof lasting as long as possible, you should make a few simple but important maintenance choices.

👉 Make sure to clean your gutters regularly (at least twice a year). This helps water flow away from your roof properly and prevents damage from backed-up water.

👉 Another important step is trimming any tree branches that hang over your roof. These branches can scratch your roof when it's windy, and falling leaves can clog your gutters. Plus, branches give squirrels and other animals an easy way to get on your roof.

👉 It's also really important to check your roof after big storms. Look for any missing or damaged parts that need to be fixed. The sooner you spot problems, the easier and cheaper they are to fix.

👉 Don't forget about your attic's ventilation because good airflow helps prevent moisture buildup that can harm your roof from the inside. In winter, watch for ice dams forming on your roof's edges and remove them carefully.

👉 Most importantly, get your roof checked by professionals once or twice a year. They can spot small problems before they turn into big ones.

Get Professional Roofing Services In Pennsylvania

At McClelland's Contracting and Roofing, LLC, we are your local roofing professionals serving Pittsburgh, and the surrounding regions of Pennsylvania.

We understand the importance of choosing the right roofing material for your home. Our team is here to assist you in choosing the right roofing material for your needs. 

We only focus on providing the highest value possible in every installation, repair, or replacement that we take on. That’s why our team only uses industry-certified practices and quality materials to make sure that your roof looks good and performs well in the coming years. 

To schedule a free roof inspection, or for a direct discussion with one of our professionals, feel free to call us today at (412) 353-5660.