Life Expectancy Chart
Surface preparation and paint quality are the
most important determinants of a paint's life expectancy. Ultraviolet (UV) rays
via sunshine can shorten life expectancy. Additionally, conditions of
high humidity indoors or outdoors can affect the lifespan of these components,
which is why they should be inspected and maintained seasonally.
ADHESIVES,
CAULK & PAINTS
|
YEARS
|
Caulking (interior
& exterior)
|
5 to 10
|
Construction Glue
|
20+
|
Paint (exterior)
|
7 to 10
|
Paint (interior)
|
10 to 15
|
Roofing
Adhesives/Cements
|
15+
|
Sealants
|
8
|
Stains
|
3 to 8
|
Appliance life expectancy
depends to a great extent on the use it receives. Furthermore, consumers often
replace appliances long before they become worn out due to changes in styling,
technology and consumer preferences.
APPLIANCES
|
YEARS
|
Air Conditioner
(window)
|
5 to 7
|
Compactor (trash)
|
6
|
Dehumidifier
|
8
|
Dishwasher
|
9
|
Disposal (food waste)
|
12
|
|
|
Dryer Vent
(plastic)
|
5
|
Dryer Vent
(steel)
|
20
|
Dryer (clothes)
|
13
|
Exhaust Fans
|
10
|
Freezer
|
10 to 20
|
Gas Oven
|
10 to 18
|
Hand Dryer
|
10 to 12
|
Humidifier (portable)
|
8
|
Microwave Oven
|
9
|
Range/Oven Hood
|
14
|
Electric Range
|
13 to 15
|
Gas Range
|
15 to 17
|
Refrigerator
|
9 to 13
|
Swamp Cooler
|
5 to 15
|
Washing Machine
|
5 to 15
|
Whole-House Vacuum
System
|
20
|
Modern kitchens today
are larger and more elaborate. Together with the family room, they
now form the “great room.”
CABINETRY
& STORAGE
|
YEARS
|
Bathroom
Cabinets
|
50+
|
Closet Shelves
|
100+
|
Entertainment
Center/Home Office
|
10
|
Garage/Laundry
Cabinets
|
70+
|
Kitchen Cabinets
|
50
|
Medicine Cabinet
|
25+
|
Modular (stock
manufacturing-type)
|
50
|
Walls and ceilings can
last the full lifespan of the home.
CEILINGS
& WALLS
|
YEARS
|
Acoustical Tile
Ceiling
|
40+ (older than 25
years may contain asbestos)
|
Ceramic
Tile
|
70+
|
|
|
Concrete
|
75+
|
Gypsum
|
75
|
Wood Paneling
|
20 to 50
|
Suspended Ceiling
|
25+
|
Natural stone
countertops, which are less expensive than they were just a few years ago, are
becoming more popular, and one can expect them to last a lifetime. Cultured
marble countertops have a shorter life expectancy, however.
COUNTERTOPS
|
YEARS
|
Concrete
|
50
|
Cultured Marble
|
20
|
Natural Stone
|
100+
|
Laminate
|
20 to 30
|
Resin
|
10+
|
Tile
|
100+
|
Wood
|
100+
|
Decks are exposed to a
wide range of conditions in different climates, from wind and hail in some
areas, to relatively consistent, dry weather in others. See FASTENERS &
STEEL section for fasteners. Proper yearly maintenance of your decks, your
decks can last a lifetime.
DECKS
|
YEARS
|
Deck Planks
|
15
|
Composite
|
8 to 25
|
Structural Wood
|
10 to 30
|
Improperly installed
decks are dangerous. Have your deck professionally installed!
Exterior fiberglass,
steel and wood doors will last as long as the house, while vinyl and screen
doors have a shorter life expectancy. The gaskets/weather stripping of exterior
doors may have to be replaced every 5 to 8 years.
DOORS
|
YEARS
|
Closet
(interior)
|
100+
|
Fiberglass
(exterior)
|
100+
|
Fire-Rated Steel
(exterior)
|
100+
|
French
(interior)
|
30 to 50
|
Screen (exterior)
|
30
|
Sliding Glass/Patio
(exterior)
|
20 (for roller
wheel/track repair/replacement)
|
Vinyl (exterior)
|
20
|
Wood (exterior)
|
100+
|
Wood (hollow-core
interior)
|
20 to 30
|
Wood (solid-core
interior)
|
30 to 100+
|
Remember that faulty,
damaged or overloaded electrical circuits or equipment are the leading cause of
house fires, so they should be inspected regularly and repaired or updated as
needed.
ELECTRICAL
|
YEARS
|
Accessories
|
10+
|
Arc-Fault Circuit
Interrupters (AFCIs)
|
30
|
Bare Copper
|
100+
|
Bulbs (compact fluorescent)
|
8,000 to 10,000+
hours
|
Bulbs (halogen)
|
4,000 to 8,000+ hours
|
Bulbs (incandescent)
|
1,000 to 2,000+ hours
|
Bulbs (LED)
|
30,000 to 50,000+
hours
|
Copper-Clad Aluminum
|
100+
|
Copper-Plated
|
100+
|
Fixtures
|
40
|
Ground-Fault Circuit
Interrupters (GFCIs)
|
up to 30
|
Lighting Controls
|
30+
|
Residential Propane
Backup Generators
|
12
|
Service Panel
|
60
|
Solar Panels
|
20 to 30
|
Solar System
Batteries
|
3 to 12
|
Wind Turbine
Generators
|
20
|
Floor and roof trusses
and laminated strand lumber are durable household components, and engineered
trim may last 30 years. They must be
installed properly!
ENGINEERED
LUMBER
|
YEARS
|
Engineered Joists
|
80+
|
Laminated Strand
Lumber
|
100+
|
Laminated Veneer
Lumber
|
80+
|
Trusses
|
100+
|
Fastener manufacturers
do not give lifespans for their products because they vary too much based on
where the fasteners are installed in a home, the materials in which they're
installed, and the local climate and environment.
FASTENERS,
CONNECTORS & STEEL
|
YEARS
|
Adjustable Steel
Columns
|
50+
|
Fasteners (bright)
|
25 to 60
|
Fasteners (copper)
|
65 to 80+
|
Fasteners
(galvanized)
|
10+
|
Fasteners
(electro-galvanized)
|
15 to 45
|
Fasteners (hot-dipped
galvanized)
|
35 to 60
|
Fasteners (stainless)
|
65 to 100+
|
Steel Beams
|
200+
|
Steel Columns
|
100+
|
Steel Plates
|
100+
|
Flooring life is
dependent on maintenance and the amount of foot traffic the floor endures.
Using a quality flooring can save you money in the long run.
FLOORING
|
YEARS
|
All Wood Floors
|
100+
|
Bamboo
|
100+
|
Brick Pavers
|
100+
|
Carpet
|
8 to 10
|
Concrete
|
50+
|
Engineered Wood
|
50+
|
Exotic Wood
|
100+
|
Granite
|
100+
|
Laminate
|
15 to 25
|
Linoleum
|
25
|
Marble
|
100+
|
Other Domestic Wood
|
100+
|
Slate
|
100
|
Terrazzo
|
75+
|
Tile
|
75 to 100
|
Vinyl
|
25
|
Have your flooring
professionally installed!
Concrete and
poured-block footings and foundations will last a lifetime, assuming they were
properly built. Waterproofing with bituminous coating lasts 10 years, but
if it cracks, it is immediately damaged.
FOUNDATIONS
|
YEARS
|
Baseboard
Waterproofing System
|
50
|
Bituminous-Coating
Waterproofing
|
10
|
Concrete Block
|
100+
|
Insulated Concrete
Forms (ICFs)
|
100
|
Post and Pier
|
20 to 65
|
Post and Tensioned
Slab on Grade
|
100+
|
Poured-Concrete
Footings and Foundation
|
100+
|
Slab on Grade
(concrete)
|
100
|
Wood Foundation
|
5 to 40
|
Permanent Wood
Foundation (PWF; treated)
|
75
|
Framing and structural
systems have extended longevities; poured-concrete systems, timber frame houses
and structural insulated panels will all last a lifetime.
FRAMING
|
YEARS
|
Log
|
80 to 200
|
Poured-Concrete
Systems
|
100+
|
Steel
|
100+
|
Structural Insulated
Panels (SIPs)
|
100+
|
Timber Frame
|
100+
|
The quality and
frequency of use will affect the longevity of garage doors and openers.
GARAGES
|
YEARS
|
Garage Doors
|
20 to 25
|
Garage Door Openers
|
10 to 15
|
Home technology
systems have diverse life expectancies and may have to be upgraded due to
evolution in technology.
HOME
TECHNOLOGY
|
YEARS
|
Built-In Audio
|
20
|
Carbon Monoxide
Detectors*
|
5
|
Door Bells
|
45
|
Home Automation
System
|
5 to 50
|
Intercoms
|
20
|
Security System
|
5 to 20
|
Smoke/Heat Detectors*
|
less than 10
|
Wireless Home
Networks
|
5+
|
* Batteries should be
changed at least annually.
Thermostats may last
35 years but they are usually replaced before they fail due to technological
improvements. Programmable thermostats can save you money on your energy bills.
HVAC
|
YEARS
|
Air Conditioner
(central)
|
7 to 15
|
Air Exchanger
|
15
|
Attic Fan
|
15 to 25
|
Boiler
|
40
|
Burner
|
10+
|
Ceiling Fan
|
5 to 10
|
Condenser
|
8 to 20
|
Dampers
|
20+
|
Dehumidifier
|
8
|
Diffusers, Grilles
and Registers
|
25
|
Ducting
|
60 to 100
|
Electric Radiant
Heater
|
40
|
Evaporator Cooler
|
15 to 25
|
Furnace
|
15 to 25
|
Gas Fireplace
|
15 to 25
|
Heat Exchanger
|
10 to 15
|
Heat Pump
|
10 to 15
|
Heat-Recovery
Ventilator
|
20
|
Hot-Water and
Steam-Radiant Boiler
|
40
|
Humidifier
|
12
|
Induction and
Fan-Coil Units
|
10 to 15
|
Chimney Cap
(concrete)
|
100+
|
Chimney Cap (metal)
|
10 to 20
|
Chimney Cap (mortar)
|
15
|
Chimney Flue Tile
|
40 to 120
|
Thermostats
|
35
|
Ventilator
|
7
|
INSULATION
& INFILTRATION BARRIERS
|
YEARS
|
Batts/Rolls
|
100+
|
Black Paper (felt
paper)
|
15 to 30
|
Cellulose
|
100+
|
Fiberglass
|
100+
|
Foamboard
|
100+
|
Housewrap
|
80+
|
Liquid-Applied
Membrane
|
50
|
Loose-Fill
|
100+
|
Rock Wool
|
100+
|
Wrap Tape
|
80+
|
|
|
As long as they are not punctured, cut or burned and are kept dry and away from UV rays, cellulose, fiberglass and foam insulation materials will last a lifetime. This is true regardless of whether they were installed as loose-fill, house-wrap or batts/rolls.
Masonry is one of the
most enduring household components. Fireplaces, chimneys and brick veneers can
last the lifetime of a home.
MASONRY
& CONCRETE
|
YEARS
|
Brick
|
100+
|
Insulated Concrete
Forms (hybrid block)
|
100+
|
Concrete Masonry
Units (CMUs)
|
100+
|
Man-Made Stone
|
25
|
Masonry Sealant
|
2 to 20
|
Stone
|
100+
|
Stucco/EIFS
|
50+
|
Veneer
|
100+
|
Custom millwork and
stair parts will last a lifetime and are typically only upgraded for aesthetic
reasons. Stairs can be ornate or of simple design.
MOLDING,
MILLWORK & TRIM
|
YEARS
|
Attic Stairs
(pull-down)
|
50
|
Custom Millwork
|
100+
|
Pre-Built Stairs
|
100+
|
Stair Parts
|
100+
|
Stairs
|
100+
|
The lifetime of any
wood product depends heavily on moisture intrusion.
PANELS
|
YEARS
|
Flooring
Underlayment
|
25
|
Hardboard
|
40
|
Particleboard
|
60
|
Plywood
|
100
|
Softwood
|
30
|
Oriented Strand Board
(OSB)
|
60
|
Wall Panels
|
100+
|
The quality of
plumbing fixtures varies dramatically. The mineral content of water can shorten
the life expectancy of water heaters and clog showerheads. Also, some
finishes may require special maintenance with approved cleaning agents per the
manufacturers in order to last their expected service lives.
Use quality plumbing fixtures!
PLUMBING,
FIXTURES & FAUCETS
|
YEARS
|
ABS and PVC Waste
Pipe
|
50 to 80
|
Accessible/ADA
Handles
|
100+
|
Acrylic Kitchen Sink
|
50
|
Cast-Iron Bathtub
|
100
|
Cast-Iron Waste Pipe
(above ground)
|
60
|
Cast-Iron Waste Pipe
(below ground)
|
50 to 60
|
Concrete Waste Pipe
|
100+
|
Copper Water Lines
|
70
|
Enameled Steel
Kitchen Sink
|
5 to 10+
|
Faucets and Spray
Hose
|
15 to 20
|
Fiberglass Bathtub
and Shower
|
20
|
Gas Lines (black
steel)
|
75
|
Gas Lines (flex)
|
30
|
Hose Bibs
|
20 to 30
|
Instant (on-demand)
Water Heater
|
10
|
PEX
|
40
|
Plastic Water Lines
|
75
|
Saunas/Steam Room
|
15 to 20
|
Sewer Grinder Pump
|
10
|
Shower
Enclosure/Module
|
50
|
Shower Doors
|
20
|
Showerheads
|
100+ (if not clogged
by mineral/other deposits)
|
Soapstone Kitchen
Sink
|
100+
|
Sump Pump
|
7
|
Toilet Tank
Components
|
5
|
Toilets, Bidets and
Urinals
|
100+
|
Vent Fan (ceiling)
|
5 to 10
|
Vessel Sink (stone,
glass, porcelain, copper)
|
5 to 20+
|
Water Heater
(conventional)
|
6 to 12
|
Water Line (copper)
|
50
|
Water Line (plastic)
|
50
|
Well Pump
|
15
|
Water Softener
|
20
|
Whirlpool Tub
|
20 to 50
|
Radon systems have but
one moving part: the radon fan.
HAVE YOUR HOME TESTED!
RADON
SYSTEMS
|
YEARS
|
Air Exchanger
|
15
|
Barometric Backdraft
Damper/Fresh-Air Intake
|
20
|
Caulking
|
5 to 10
|
Labeling
|
25
|
Manometer
|
15
|
Piping
|
50+
|
Radon Fan
|
5 to 8
|
The life of a roof
depends on local weather conditions, building and design, material quality, and
adequate maintenance. Hot climates drastically reduce asphalt shingle
life. Roofs in areas that experience severe weather, such as hail,
tornadoes and/or hurricanes may also experience a shorter-than-normal lifespan
overall or may incur isolated damage that requires repair in order to ensure
the service life of the surrounding roofing materials.
ROOFING
|
YEARS
|
Aluminum Coating
|
3 to 7
|
Asphalt Shingles
(3-tab)
|
20
|
Asphalt
(architectural)
|
30
|
BUR (built-up
roofing)
|
30
|
Clay/Concrete
|
100+
|
Coal and Tar
|
30
|
Copper
|
70+
|
EPDM (ethylene
propylene diene monomer) Rubber
|
15 to 25
|
Fiber Cement
|
25
|
Green
(vegetation-covered)
|
5 to 40
|
Metal
|
40 to 80
|
Modified Bitumen
|
20
|
Simulated Slate
|
10 to 35
|
Slate
|
60 to 150
|
TPO
|
7 to 20
|
Wood
|
25
|
Outside siding
materials typically last a lifetime. Some exterior components may require
protection through appropriate paints or sealants, as well as regular
maintenance. Also, while well-maintained and undamaged flashing can last
a long time, it is their connections that tend to fail, so seasonal inspection
and maintenance are strongly recommended.
SIDINGS,
FLASHING & ACCESSORIES
|
YEARS
|
Aluminum Siding
|
25 to 40+
|
Aluminum Gutters, Downspouts,
Soffit and Fascia
|
20 to 40+
|
Asbestos Shingle
|
100
|
Brick
|
100+
|
Cementitious
|
100+
|
Copper Downspouts
|
100
|
Copper Gutters
|
50+
|
Engineered Wood
|
100+
|
Fiber Cement
|
100+
|
Galvanized Steel
Gutters/Downspouts
|
20
|
Manufactured Stone
|
100+
|
Stone
|
100+
|
Stucco/EIFS
|
50+
|
Trim
|
25
|
Vinyl Siding
|
60
|
Vinyl Gutters and
Downspouts
|
25+
|
Wood/Exterior
Shutters
|
20
|
Site and landscaping
elements have life expectancies that vary dramatically. Landscaping and
drainage can have a huge impact on your home and foundation. Lot grading should
be sloped away from the home, 1” of slope per foot for 6’ feet. (Optimal)
SITE
& LANDSCAPING
|
YEARS
|
American Red Clay
|
100+
|
Asphalt Driveway
|
15 to 20
|
Brick and Concrete
Patio
|
15 to 25
|
Clay Paving
|
100+
|
Concrete Walks
|
40 to 50
|
Controllers
|
15
|
Gravel Walks
|
4 to 6
|
Mulch
|
1 to 2
|
Polyvinyl Fencing
|
100+
|
Sprinkler Heads
|
10 to 14
|
Underground PVC
Piping
|
60+
|
Valves
|
20
|
Wood Chips
|
1 to 5
|
Wood Fencing
|
20
|
Swimming pools are
composed of many systems and components, all with varying life expectancies.
SWIMMING
POOLS
|
YEARS
|
Concrete Shell
|
25+
|
Cover
|
7
|
Diving Board
|
10
|
Filter and Pump
|
10
|
Interior Finish
|
10 to 35
|
Vinyl Liner
|
10
|
Pool Water Heater
|
8
|
Waterline Tile
|
15+
|
Aluminum windows are
expected to last between 15 and 20 years, while wooden windows should last
nearly 30 years.
WINDOWS
|
YEARS
|
Aluminum/Aluminum-Clad
|
15 to 20
|
Double-Pane
|
8 to 20
|
Skylights
|
10 to 20
|
Window Glazing
|
10+
|
Vinyl/Fiberglass
Windows
|
20 to 40
|
Wood
|
30+
|
Note: Life expectancy varies with usage, weather, installation,
maintenance and quality of materials. This list should be used only as a
general guideline and not as a guarantee or warranty regarding the performance
or life expectancy of any appliance, product, system or component.
Rapid City, South Dakota
209-6766
Call us today to have
your annual home maintenance inspection.
Home maintenance is the
key to keeping your home in good working condition.
2016