A well-constructed home can last a lifetime – maybe even a century or longer. In this blog, we’ll explore the expected lifespan of different components within your home and share tips on how to extend your home’s longevity.

Foundation Material

The foundation is the backbone of any home, providing stability and support. The type of foundation your home has will play a role in its longevity, as some are more durable than others:

Concrete

The vast majority of foundations today are designed with concrete and poured-block footings. Concrete is a popular choice because it is durable and can last over 100 years. This type of foundation is also waterproof for about the first decade.

Wood

Wood foundations made out of pressure-treated lumber are another option. While they’re less common than concrete, they provide durable support for homes when they’re properly constructed and maintained. Proper ventilation, moisture control, and regular inspections ensure your wood foundation lasts 60 years or more.

Brick

Brick foundations are known for their durability and longevity. Their resistance to moisture, insects, and fire makes them an excellent choice for a long-lasting foundation. Proper maintenance becomes even more crucial in regions with harsh climates, where freeze-thaw cycles can cause damage. Quickly addressing any issues can help your brick foundation last 65 years or longer.

Structural Components

Several generally durable structural components make up your home:

Roof

Mosaic 5, Mosaic Portfolio, Brighton Crossings Community, Brighton, Colorado

The longevity of your roof depends on the type of material used:

• Asphalt Shingles: The most popular roofing material choice with a lifespan of around 20 to 30 years. High-quality, architectural-grade shingles can last longer, up to 50 years.
• Metal Roofing: Metal roofs, such as steel, aluminum, and copper, can last 40 to 70 years or more with proper maintenance.
• Wood Shingles/Shakes: Wood roofing materials can last 30 to 40 years depending on the type of wood, local climate, and preventative maintenance for rot and decay.
• Tile Roofing: Clay and concrete tiles have a 50 to 100-year lifespan as they are exceptionally resistant to harsh weather conditions.
• Slate Roofing: Slate roofs are among the longest-lasting, with a life expectancy of 75 to 100 years. Proper installation and maintenance are a must to ensure this longevity.
• Composite Roofing: Composite or synthetic roofing materials offer a middle-ground option, typically lasting around 30 to 50 years, depending on the product’s quality.

Drywall

Drywall is a common building material used for interior walls and ceilings. Its longevity depends on the quality of installation, environmental conditions, and maintenance, with the average lifespan ranging from 30 to 70 years.

Windows

Unless an accident or weather damages your windows, well-maintained ones can last 15-30 years or longer. Broken seals can be common, so addressing that kind of minor issue can help extend the life of your windows.

Flooring

Lucca Floor Plan, Estate Collection, Cranston's Riverstone, Calgary, Alberta

Flooring covers a significant amount of square footage and sets the tone of your entire home. Common flooring materials offer a different range of lifespans:

• Hardwood: High-quality hardwood floors can last generations, often exceeding 50 years or more with proper care.
• Laminate: Laminate is a more cost-effective alternative to real hardwood, with a lifespan of 15 to 25 years.
• Tile: Ceramic and porcelain tile floors can last decades or even longer. They’re incredibly durable and waterproof, and individual tiles can be replaced should damage occur.
• Luxury Vinyl: Luxury vinyl is easy to clean, scratch- and fade-resistant, and waterproof. Luxury vinyl has an average lifespan of 10 to 20 years.
• Carpet: Carpet lifespan can vary greatly, typically lasting 5 to 15 years. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help extend its life, but replacement is often required sooner in high-traffic areas.

Siding and Stucco

Siding and stucco are vital exterior finishes that protect your home and enhance its curb appeal.

• Vinyl Siding: Vinyl siding typically lasts 20 to 40 years or more.
• Wood Siding: Wood siding, like cedar or redwood, can last 20 to 50 years, but regular maintenance is essential to prevent rot and decay.
• Fiber Cement Siding: Fiber cement siding has a lifespan of 25 to 50 years or more. It’s known for its durability and resistance to rot, pests, and weather.
• Stucco: Stucco exteriors can last for several decades to over a century with proper care.

Internal Fixtures

Your home’s internal systems, such as plumbing, electrical, and HVAC, are essential for daily comfort and functionality. Routine maintenance of these items is just as important, if not more, than the exterior. Significant areas include:

Insulation

Most home insulation types are designed to be long-lasting and not much of a maintenance concern. Inspect and replace your insulation if you notice a change in your energy bills.

• Fiberglass: Fiberglass insulation can last several decades, often exceeding 50 years, when undisturbed and properly installed.
• Cellulose: Cellulose insulation typically lasts 20 to 30 years or more. Ensuring it remains dry can help prolong its effectiveness.
• Spray Foam: High-quality spray foam can last 80 years or more when installed correctly, as it forms an airtight seal and is highly durable.
• Mineral Wool (Rock Wool): Mineral wool can last 100 years with correct installation.

HVAC System

Proactive maintenance of your HVAC system can improve its longevity. Changing the air filters regularly and tune-up service can prevent damage and save money in the long run. On average, your furnace should last 15-20 years, and your air conditioner 10-15 years.

Plumbing

Plumbing pipes are essential for your home’s water supply and draining. Their lifespan will vary based on the material and usage:

• Copper Pipes: Copper pipes are highly durable and can last 50-70 years or more. They are resistant to corrosion and offer excellent water flow.
• PEX (Cross-linked Polyethylene) Pipes: PEX pipes have gained popularity for their flexibility and resistance to freeze damage. They can last up to 50 years or more as they are less likely to crack or break.
• Galvanized Steel: Galvanized pipes have a shorter lifespan of around 20 to 50 years as they can rust over time.
• Cast Iron: Primarily used for drainage, cast iron pipes can last 50 to 100 years if maintained properly.

Electrical

Properly installed wiring can last 70-80 years or more, but electrical components like outlets and switches may need replacement sooner. Older homes may have outdated wiring that requires upgrading for safety and efficiency.

Electrical panels typically last 25 to 40 years. Upgrading to a modern panel with circuit breakers is often necessary to accommodate increased electrical demands and ensure safety.

Wicklow Floor Plan, Duplex Collection, Chinook Gate, Airdrie, Alberta

How to Increase the Lifespan of Your Home

A new home is a major investment, and you want to ensure it can stand the test of time. Here are five ways to prolong your home’s longevity:

1. Choose durable materials

When choosing materials for your new construction home, select the ones that will last the longest for how your household lives. Laminate or luxury vinyl may suit your lifestyle better than real hardwood or carpet if you have pets or kids. A marble-look quartz countertop may be more forgiving than natural marble. Learn the pros and cons of popular materials and make informed choices to best fit your needs.

2. Schedule routine maintenance

Routine repair and maintenance can improve the longevity of a home. Stay on top of tasks and keep your to-dos in order with our Spring Cleaning Checklist. From everyday tasks to nitty gritty appliance cleanouts, we cover the steps to maintain your home all year round.

3. Address issues quickly

If you discover an issue or have ignored a minor problem, now is the time to address it. Don’t wait for it to become a significant or costly repair. Being proactive can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars.

4. Know your climate

Your area’s climate will play a part in your home’s longevity. If you live in an area with harsh temperatures, familiarize yourself with the proper steps to ready your home as the seasons change. You can explore our blog on How to Winterize Your Home for some tips to prepare your home for the winter weather ahead.

5. Keep it clean

Maintaining a clean and tidy home goes beyond aesthetics; it plays a significant role in your home’s longevity. Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of dirt, dust, moisture, and pests, contributing to wear and deterioration. You also reduce the risk of mold, rot, and structural damage, which can affect materials like wood, drywall, and insulation. Clean and well-maintained appliances, HVAC systems, and plumbing fixtures tend to function more efficiently and last longer.

The Brookfield Residential Difference

Los Coyotes Country Club Community, Buena Park, California

For more than 65 years, Brookfield Residential has been creating the best places to call home. Our homes, just like our communities, are built to add value and enrich the quality of life for our homebuyers. Learn more about us and check out our customer reviews for real homeowner testimonials!

Buying a new home is exciting but can come with some questions. Don’t worry – our team is ready to help and with you every step of the way.

Check out the Brookfield Residential blog for more interesting and helpful topics like Why Buying a New Construction Home is a Good Investment or How to Choose a Home Builder.

You can explore where we build and connect with our sales team when you’re ready to learn more. We’ll be expecting you!