Maintenance
How Long Does a Roof Last in Washington State?
The PNW climate is hard on roofs. Here's what realistic lifespans look like for each material — and what shortens them.
April 28, 2026·5 min read
Typical lifespans in the PNW
Builder-grade 3-tab asphalt: 15–20 years.
Architectural asphalt: 22–30 years.
Standing-seam metal: 40–60+ years.
Cedar shake: 20–30 years with diligent maintenance.
Tile: 50+ years for the tile, ~25 years for the underlayment beneath it.
What shortens roof life here
Moss left untreated, blocked gutters causing ice-dam pressure, poor attic ventilation, walking the roof, satellite-dish penetrations not properly flashed, and trees overhanging the roof.