How long does a roof last in the UK?
Roof lifespan varies enormously by material, installation quality, exposure and maintenance. Some flat-roof systems may last a few decades, while high-quality natural slate can remain serviceable for many generations. Age alone is therefore not enough to decide whether a roof needs replacing.
Why age alone decides very little
Two roofs of the same age can be in completely different condition depending on exposure, workmanship, ventilation and how well rainwater goods have been maintained.
Roofs also fail in parts rather than all at once. The covering, the underlay, the battens and the details each have their own working life, and the weakest of those tends to set the timetable.
Signs that matter more than age
Widespread slipping, repeated leaks in different places, failing underlay visible from the loft and deteriorating fixings are far better indicators than a date.
Periodic inspection gives you the information to plan, rather than being forced into a decision the week after a storm.