Welcome to Savannah – and the Climate
Let’s be honest: living in Savannah, Georgia comes with plenty of charm—oak trees dripping with Spanish moss, warm ocean breezes, and homes full of history and character. But if you’re a homeowner here, you also know that Savannah’s weather can be a little…moody. One minute it’s sunshine and blue skies, the next it’s sideways rain and tropical storm alerts.
All that means your roof needs to be tough, especially if it’s wearing asphalt shingles. But how long can you expect those shingles to last with our humidity, hurricane seasons, and sun-soaked summers? The answer’s not so simple—but that’s where we come in.
Let’s break it down, Savannah-style.
What Are Asphalt Shingles?
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in America—and for good reason. They’re cost-effective, versatile, and they come in two main styles:
- 3-tab shingles: The flat, traditional kind. Lightweight and budget-friendly, but not exactly the heavyweight champ of durability.
- Architectural (or dimensional) shingles: A thicker, layered option that offers better weather resistance, more texture, and a longer life.
Whether you’ve got a charming 1920s bungalow in Ardsley Park or a newer home in Southside, there’s a good chance your roof is rocking one of these.
The Lifespan of Asphalt Shingles in Coastal Georgia
On the packaging, most asphalt shingles promise a lifespan of 20 to 30 years. That’s a solid number—if you live in a place with mild, predictable weather.
But Savannah? Not exactly mild.
Between the summer heat, coastal humidity, salt air, and hurricane seasons that keep your weather app working overtime, roofs around here have their work cut out for them.
In our experience at Designer Roofing & Restoration, here’s what you can actually expect:
- 3-tab shingles: 12–17 years, if well-maintained
- Architectural shingles: 18–25 years, depending on quality and conditions
Sure, you could squeeze more life out of them, but only if the roofing gods smile down on you—and you take proper care of what’s over your head.
What Wears Asphalt Shingles Down in Savannah?
We’ve seen some things. Here’s what your roof is up against:
- Heat & Humidity –
Savannah summers can fry an egg on your roof and steam it at the same time. This combo can cause shingles to curl, warp, and degrade faster.
- Salt Air –
Living near the coast is great—unless you’re a roofing material. Salt can corrode flashing and underlayments over time.
- Storms & Wind –
Tropical systems and surprise pop-up storms can tear off shingles like a magician yanking a tablecloth.
- Moss, Algae, and Mildew –
Our humidity is great for plants… and less great for roofs. Dark streaks and moss patches don’t just look bad—they shorten your roof’s lifespan.
- Poor Ventilation –
When your attic doesn’t breathe, your shingles bake from underneath. No bueno.
How to Know If Your Shingles Are Throwing in the Towel
Even if you’re not climbing ladders on weekends (and please don’t—leave that to us), you can still spot signs that your roof is ready for retirement:
- Shingles that are cracked, curling, or missing
- Granules in your gutters (like roof dandruff—gross, but telling)
- Stains or leaks on your ceiling
- A roof that’s over 15 years old and hasn’t had a checkup in a while
- Moss or algae growth that’s starting to take over
If you’ve noticed any of these, don’t panic—but do get it looked at.
How to Help Your Roof Live Its Best Life
You don’t have to be a roofer to extend the life of your shingles. Here are five easy things you can do:
- Get Regular Roof Inspections –
Especially after major storms. We offer free inspections, by the way.
- Keep Gutters Clean –
Clogged gutters can lead to water backup and roof damage.
- Trim Overhanging Trees –
Branches + wind = bad news for shingles.
- Watch for Moss and Algae –
Treat early before they become roof squatters.
- Ventilate That Attic –
A cooler attic = a cooler roof.
Your roof is a system, not just a hat for your house. Treat it well, and it’ll return the favor.
Local Roofers, Real Results
At Designer Roofing & Restoration, we know Savannah homes because we live and work here too. From Historic District charmers to suburban two-stories, we’ve helped homeowners across Chatham County keep their roofs strong, storm-ready, and downright good-looking.
We don’t do high-pressure sales or confusing jargon. We inspect, explain, and execute—with Southern hospitality and top-tier craftsmanship.
Ready to See How Your Roof’s Holding Up?
Whether your asphalt shingles are aging gracefully or showing signs of early retirement, now’s the time to find out.
Schedule your free roof inspection today online or give us a call. No pressure—just honest answers, expert advice, and the peace of mind that comes from working with a local roofer who’s seen it all (and reroofed most of it).
Your roof has one job: protect what matters most. Let’s make sure it’s up to it.
