A home is not really a home. It is a collection of systems. These systems are surprisingly varied when it comes to their lifespan. Specifically, the may last a long time or, in the case of a roof, they may not.

When considering the number of years different roofs might last, it is vital to keep in mind that while materials and other issues certainly play a role, the biggest issue is the impact of the power of nature.

A roofing system is incredibly durable. It can take the heat of the sun every day. It can take being drenched in water. It can freeze up for days on end under snow and ice in the winter. All this and it will still last for years and years. Amazing!

Given the beating a roof takes, it is not surprising that the type of roofing material used makes a huge difference. A slate rock roof is like putting tank armor on your home. It is going to last for at least 70 years, but it is going to cost you an arm and leg to buy and install.

If you have a small budget, the cheapest roof system available is the infamous wood shake shingle roof. Well, it is cheap to buy and install, but will cost you in the long run. Why? It will only last between 10 and 25 years.

Whenever you use wood on a house, there is always the fire concern. One needs only watch the fires in Southern California to watch wood shingle roofs go up in flames one after the other. This is even true for fire retardant wood shingles.

Is there a compromise between slate and wood roofs? Most people believe tile roof systems fit the bill. They are not as cheap as wood shingle roof systems, but will not burn. They are a lot cheaper than slate roofs, but have the minor issue of only lasting 40 years or so. Still, it is a good compromise system.

The cost of energy for a home is going up, but a new roofing system may bring relief. The solar shingle system produces electricity for your home without the big obnoxious solar panels. How? The entire shingle is the solar cell, but looks like a normal shingle.

The concept of the solar shingle is revolutionary. It turns your entire roof into an electricity generator. You can heat and cool your home using the power. You can run appliances, leave lights on and so on. All for just the cost of the initial system.

Having a roof over your head is important, but only if it actually keeps the elements out. If yours is failing, take a look at the different roofing systems available. They can change the entire look of your home and even provide power.

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