Lifespans
| Roofing material | Estimated life (years) |
|---|---|
| Asphalt shingles (3-tab) | 20 |
| Asphalt shingles (architectural) | 30 |
| Wood shakes or shingles | 25 |
| Metal | 40 to 80 |
| Clay or concrete tile | 100+ |
| Slate | 60 to 150 |
| Built-up roofing (flat) | 30 |
| Modified bitumen (flat) | 20 |
| TPO (flat) | 7 to 20 |
| EPDM rubber (flat) | 15 to 25 |
Source: InterNACHI.
Climate zone 2, mostly
Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Napa, Novato, San Rafael and Sonoma are in Energy Commission climate zone 2; southern Marin towns such as Mill Valley and Sausalito are in zone 3 (CEC climate zones). Zone 2 summers inland are hot and dry, which is hard on shingles.
When was my roof installed?
Ask Permit Sonoma, Napa County, Marin County or your city for permit history. Purchase disclosures and attic labels help too.
Help it last
Clear redwood and oak litter from valleys, treat moss on shaded slopes, and keep attic vents open so summer heat can escape.
Every roofer we work with is licensed, insured and highly reviewed by Bay Area homeowners.
Get a free replacement quoteFrequently asked questions
How long does a wood shake roof last?
InterNACHI lists wood shakes at about 25 years. Shake isn't Class A, so replacing it usually means a different material.
Do metal roofs last in the North Bay?
InterNACHI lists metal at 40 to 80 years, and metal is generally Class A as an assembly.
Is Napa in the same climate zone as Marin?
Napa and much of central Marin are zone 2; southern Marin towns such as Mill Valley are zone 3.
Sources
Sources reviewed November 11, 2026. Figures are published estimates and official fees, not quotes. Confirm prices, permits and requirements with your contractor and building department. This page is general information, not legal or insurance advice.