Materials & Lifespan

Roofing materials age on very different clocks: a basic three-tab asphalt shingle and a clay tile roof can differ in lifespan by half a century. This collection compares the common residential options — asphalt, concrete and clay tile, metal, and flat-roof membranes — on longevity, weight, upkeep, and suitability for a dry, sunny climate like San Diego's, where tile and cool-roof materials are everywhere for a reason. Every guide here separates the manufacturer's warranty number from realistic service life, and explains the factors that stretch or shorten it: ventilation, installation quality, sun exposure, and maintenance. Knowing what your roof is made of and how old it is answers half of the questions on this site before you ask them.