Asphalt Shingles / Fiberglass Shingles

Properly installed shingle roofs have a normal useful life of 10-15 years or more, depending on the grade of shingle and attic ventilation. If a new roof is required, it may be installed over the original roof (double covered) unless prohibited by local building codes. This technique typically reduces the normal life expectancy of the new shingles by as much as One third. If two layers of roofing have already been installed, both layers should be removed before installing new shingles. Fiberglass shingles generally have a longer life expectancy than do asphalt shingles.

Build-up/Gravel Roofs

Properly installed built-up roofs have a normal useful life of 8-12 years if they drain properly. If there is standing water on the roof, the rate of deterioration can be accelerated, sometimes resulting in a life of only half of that expected. Built-up roofs should be inspected annually. Although leakage can occur at any location at any time, it usually occurs at roof penetrations, the outer edges, or at the connection to the house first.

Membrane/Shingles Ply Roofs

Properly installed single ply or flexible sheet membrane roofs have a normal useful life of 15 - 20 years, although standing water on these roofs can also substantially reduce the anticipated life expectancy. These types of roofs are generally considered a superior material rather than built-up or gravel roofing.

Wood Shake Shingles

Properly installed and maintained wood shake roofing can last 10-20 years or more, although proper maintenance is extremely important. Moisture, mildew and fungus can substantially reduce the life of the roof. It is recommended that the shakes be serviced and inspected by a licensed roofer at least every five years. Florida is not generally considered a good environment for wood shake roofing.

Clay Tile Roof / Cement Tile Roofs

Properly installed tiled roofs have a normal useful life of 20-30 years or longer, but individual pieces can become cracked or broken or the nails rust out. Tiles should be inspected regularly and be repaired or replaced as needed, particularly on those roofs that have been installed using nails or screws for attachment, as this type of roof depends on the tiles as the water proofing material. Any broken or cracked tile on this type of should be considered as a likely roof leak. Cement or clay tiles are often installed using mortar or foam as a bonding agent. This mortar or foam can, at times, become loose and allow slipped tiles to occur which could allow exposure and damage to the underlayment. If slipped tiles are present or indicated, it will be necessary to have the entire roof inspected for loose tiles that may not have moved but have become loose. The underlayment of tiled roofs cannot be readily inspected nor ifs condition determined in a visual inspection. Sliding tile can occur if the tiles have not been properly attached to the underlayment, or if the underlayment itself has not been adequately attached to the roof sheathing. If sliding tiles are indicated, a thorough evaluation of the entire roofing system should be made by a qualified roofing contractor; this condition often requires that the roof be replaced.