When To Replace Common Fixtures In Your Home

Regular maintenance and care of your home's components will help keep your home in good condition for the long haul. That said, no matter how well you take care of your abode, certain components will still need some attention at some point.

Everything has its own specific lifespan. It's helpful to understand when your home's materials and appliances are nearing the end of their life to avoid emergency replacements. 

The following are some of the more common components of a home and when you can expect to replace them.

Roof

Your roof's life expectancy depends a lot on where you live, the construction design, and what sort of materials were used to preserve it. According to the National Association of Home Builders, a tile, copper, or slate roof can last at least 50 years. So, while these types of roofs may be more expensive to install, they require very little maintenance.

Other materials don't last as long: wood roofs last about 30 years, fiber cement lasts approximately 25 years, and asphalt shingles will last roughly 20 years.

Water Heaters

Your water heater should last around 10 years if it's a conventional model. Otherwise, a tankless water heater lasts around 20 years.

Carpets

Your carpeting’s lifespan depends on its day-to-day use. For families and homes with lots of foot traffic, for instance, your carpet should stay in decent shape for about 5 years or longer. But homes with fewer occupants or those that do not see a lot of activity can go at least 7 to 10 years without having to do much about their carpeting. 

Appliances

Washing machines and dryers can last about 10 years if they're well cared for. You may need to repair and replace certain components from time to time to ensure your appliances are in good working order, but total replacement shouldn't be needed for at least a decade.

HVAC System

Your home’s heating and air conditioning system and components should last around 15 to 25 years with the right care. Furnaces can last around 15 to 20 years. That said, it's not uncommon to see homeowners replacing these appliances in as little as 7 or 8 years.

Masonry

Brick fireplaces are probably the longest-lasting components of a home and should need no replacing for at least 100 years.

Electrical

Most wiring has a lifespan of at least 10 years. 

Sinks and Faucets

Faucets have an average lifespan of about 15 years, while sinks last a lot longer - at least 50 years.

Windows

The lifespan of your windows depends on their materials. For instance, aluminum windows have an average lifespan of 15 to 20 years, while wood windows last a bit longer at 30 years.

Whether you're buying a new or used home, understanding the average lifespan of a home's typical components is helpful. When you're ready to buy, The Lotus Group can help. Get in touch with us today!