Grand Haven – October 19, 2026 -- Asphalt shingles, the most common roofing material in Michigan, typically last 20 to 30 years under good conditions, according to a new HelloNation article featuring Grand Haven roofing expert Joe Ray.
Shingle type sets the baseline for roof lifespan
Three-tab shingles tend to land at the lower end of the 20-to-30-year range. Thicker, more durable architectural shingles often perform closer to 25 to 30 years.
Poor installation can shorten a roof's life from day one
Shingles that were not properly fastened, or that were installed without adequate underlayment, are more vulnerable to wind and water intrusion. The article says a roof installed correctly by an experienced contractor will almost always outlast a rushed or cut-price job, even when the materials are identical.
Trapped attic heat bakes shingles from below
The article calls ventilation one of the most overlooked factors. When attic heat has no way out, summer temperatures accelerate the breakdown of the asphalt, and shingles crack, curl or blister ahead of schedule. Proper ridge and soffit ventilation keeps attic temperatures lower and extends the life of the roofing above.
Ice dams threaten West Michigan roofs every winter
Ice dams form when heat escaping through the roof melts snow near the peak, and the meltwater refreezes at the colder eaves. Over multiple winters, they can saturate the decking, damage the underlayment and cause leaks that are hard to trace.
Hail strips the granules that shield shingles
A severe hailstorm can strip granules from asphalt shingles across an entire roof. Those granules protect the asphalt from UV exposure and moisture, so without them the shingles degrade faster. The article recommends inspecting the roof promptly after a significant hail event instead of waiting for problems to appear.
Moss and algae hold moisture against the surface
Shaded areas of a roof, where moisture lingers, are prone to moss and algae. Moss keeps moisture against the shingles and speeds deterioration. North-facing sections in neighborhoods with heavy tree coverage are especially likely to develop growth.
Inspections every two to three years cost less than early replacement
Ray's guidance is to schedule a roof inspection every two to three years and after any major storm. The article states that routine maintenance costs far less than premature replacement.