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Architectural shingles and impact-resistant shingles aren’t mutually exclusive, which means some architectural shingles are impact-resistant shingles. Architectural shingles are thicker and more durable than standard 3-tab shingles, and they become even stronger when they also have high impact resistance and wind resistance ratings. The most durable shingles for areas with extreme weather are architectural or luxury shingles that have a Class-4 impact resistance and a Class-H wind resistance that can stand up to winds reaching 150 mph.

While spotting a bit of algae on your roof may not bother you at first glance, it is certainly bothering your roof shingles. The presence of algae can cause decay and shorten the lifespan of your roof’s shingles, which can lead to much bigger problems down the road. While this issue may seem cosmetic at first glance, it goes much deeper than that.

The lifespan of a torch down roof depends on the number of layers installed. A single-ply system typically lasts between 10 and 15 years, while a multi-layer system with two or three layers can last from 15 to 25 years. Although a multi-layer option may be more expensive upfront, it provides a longer service life. Warranties often reflect this, with about 12 years for a one-ply system and 15 years for a two-ply system. For context, this lifespan is shorter than other common roofing materials like wood or asphalt shingles, which typically last 20 to 30 years, with high-quality versions lasting up to 50 years.

Tar and gravel roofs last an average of 30 years, which is longer than the average lifespan of many other flat roofs. The gravel on top of the waterproof membrane helps protect the roof from UV damage and physical damage, so if you keep your roof drains clear and carry out annual roof inspections to catch issues early, you could see up to 40 years of useful life from your roof.