Thinking about adding a composite roof this year but not sure how long it will last? Well, you are not alone in this. Thousands of people in Seattle are now choosing composite roofs for their homes. Why?
Homeowners across the Pacific Northwest want a roof that can stand up to soggy winters, moss, windstorms, and even the occasional snow dump. And many are turning to composite roofing for a long-lasting, low-maintenance option.
According to the National Association of Home Builders, well-installed composite roofs are rated to last 40–50 years, nearly twice the life expectancy of traditional asphalt shingles. This means composite roofs are the new favorites in town these days, just because they last long and are the most durable choice.
Today, we’ll talk about how long does a composition roof lasts. It’s comparison with an asphalt roof, and should you really go for it?
What is a Composite Roof, Anyway?
Before we deep dive into details about how long does a composite roof last, it’s important to learn about what exactly it means
Composite is actually made from a mix of materials—usually fiberglass, recycled plastics, and asphalt. They’re engineered to look like wood, slate, or asphalt, but perform better in harsh weather. These are also called synthetic shingles since they are built for durability and style.
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Composition Roof Lifespan:
Now let’s come to the primary concern: what is the composition shingle roof lifespan? So here are a few points to note:
- Average lifespan: 30 to 50 years
- Premium brands: 50+ years
- Lower-end brands: Around 20–30 years
That’s much longer than the standard asphalt roofing, which only lasts 15 to 25 years.
Composite Roof Vs. Asphalt Roof – A Small Comparison:
| Features | Composite Roof | Asphalt Roof |
| Average lifespan | 30 – 50 years | 15 – 25 years |
| Wind resistance | 110 – 150 mph | 60 – 90 mph |
| Fire resistance | Class A (high) | Varies |
| Moss resistance | Good with maintenance | Poor |
| Eco-friendliness | Often recyclable | Usually ends up in landfill |
| Warranty | Up to 50 years | 20 – 30 years typically |
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Factors that Impact the Lifespan of Composite Roof:
Many factors impact the lifespan of the composite roof. Some of them are:
- Quality of Materials:
It’s important to note that not all composite shingles are created equal. Some companies and brands offer high-performance shingles with Class A fire ratings, Class 4 impact resistance, and lifetime warranties. You can also trust MCS Roofing Company, which offers the highest quality materials for composite roofing.
Lower-cost brands may lack UV stabilizers or high-quality polymers, meaning they’ll break down faster.
- Professional Installation:
Even the best shingles can’t make up for poor installation. Improper nailing, missed flashing, and bad ventilation shorten your roof’s life. Especially in rainy areas like Seattle, even a small mistake can lead to leaks, mold, or rot.
This is why our team at MCS Roofing Company is trained to install composite roofs to the manufacturer’s specs—so you get the full lifespan your roof is designed for.
- Climate and Weather Conditions:
Seattle and the PNW are famous for 150+ rainy days a year, High humidity, and moss growth. Not only that, but windy storms and salt air in coastal areas are also much common.
The good news? Composite roofs are built to handle it. So, you can choose them without a doubt. They resist water absorption and UV rays and also hold up better than wood shakes.
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- Ventilation and Attic Health:
A properly vented attic is key to maximizing lifespan. Poor airflow leads to trapped heat and moisture that ultimately weakens your shingles from below and can even void warranties
According to an estimate, inadequate attic ventilation can reduce shingle lifespan by up to 25%. So, when MCS Roofing installs your composite roof, we also evaluate attic airflow, insulation, and moisture protection.
- Good Roof Accessories:
Another important factor that can shorten the lifetime of composite roofing is the quality of the roofing accessories used for the roof.
Now these accessories include:
- Vents
- Pipe boots
- Perimeter metal
- Skylights and more.
You can use the best shingles and install them properly, but if low-quality accessories are used, problems can arise, shortening the lifetime of your roof.
Trusting the right professionals like MCS Roofing can guarantee that the composite roof will be made up of all high-quality accessories. Unlike other companies that don’t share details of those accessories, we inform our clients about everything so they have an idea about things we incorporate in the process.
- Roof Maintenance:
Homeowners love composite roofs. Why? They are low-maintenance, but remember, not no-maintenance. They require minimal upkeep.
If you want to get the full 40–50+ years, we recommend:
- Cleaning off moss and debris once a year
- Keeping gutters clear
- Trimming back overhanging branches
- Checking for loose shingles after big storms
Signs Your Composite Roof Might Need Replacement:
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Even the best roofs wear out eventually. Here’s what to look for:
- Cracked or curling shingles
- Missing or loose shingles after wind
- Discoloration, streaking, or excessive moss
- Leaks inside the home or in the attic
- The roof is 35–50 years old and hasn’t had recent inspections
Is a Composite Roof Worth it?
Yes. Composite roofing is an excellent investment. Here are a few reasons why:
- You plan to stay in your home long-term
- You want something tougher than asphalt
- You like the look of slate or wood, but don’t want the hassle
- You want roofing that can handle rain, wind, and moss without falling apart
If that sounds like you, a composite roof is good for you.
Bottom Line – Composite Shingle Roof Life Expectancy:
So, have you decided to choose a composite roof over other options? If yes, keep in mind that composite roofs last 30–50 years on average. In the rainy PNW, they hold up better than asphalt or wood and require very low maintenance. Especially when you choose professional installation, you’ll get decades of value.
And with a team like MCS Roofing Company handling your installation and care, you’re not just buying shingles. You’re investing in long-term protection for your home. Are you ready to buy a composite roof for your home? If yes, call us now and get an estimate to start your new project.
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