How Often Should You Replace Your Roof? (PNW-Specific Answer)
Manufacturer labels lie a little in Western Washington. Here's the real replacement timeline for asphalt, cedar, metal, and tile roofs here.
PNW replacement timelines
3-tab asphalt: 15–18 years (label says 25). Architectural asphalt: 22–28 years (label says 30). Premium designer asphalt: 28–35 years. Cedar shake: 20–30 years with maintenance. Metal (standing seam): 40–70 years. Concrete tile: 40–50 years. Composite / synthetic slate: 40–50 years.
What accelerates wear here
North-facing slopes with heavy moss lose 3–5 years. Tree overhang and constant shade lose 2–4 years. Poor attic ventilation can cut lifespan in half. Salt air near Puget Sound accelerates flashing corrosion. High-wind exposure (Bonney Lake plateau, ridgetops) beats up shingles faster.
Signs it's time even if the roof is 'young'
Multiple leak repairs in the last 2 years, visible sagging, widespread moss with lifted shingles, or a home inspection flag during a sale — these override the age number.
The maintenance that adds years
Annual moss treatment on shaded slopes, twice-a-year gutter cleaning, quick flashing repairs, and proper attic ventilation. A well-maintained architectural shingle roof can push 30 years even in Western Washington.