Home Systems & Materials Life Expectancies

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Home Systems & Materials Life Expectancies

You may be planning major improvements to your home or simply be curious about how long you can expect various things to last. It's useful information, especially if you want to make sure you get your moneys worth.

Many house parts are fully functional for years; others give it up after just a few. A cast iron tub can work as well today as it did when it was first installed in 1888, though it may require refinishing. If maintained, brick and stonework can last centuries.

The following tables show average life expectancies for mechanical systems as well as interior and exterior materials. These have been taken from a wide range of sources including various professional building specialty websites and consumer resources, and are intended only as an estimate. Care and maintenance as well as quality and proper installation also play big roles in performance and longevity.

Mechanical systems

Mechanical Systems	Expected life in years
Air conditioning compressor	15-20
Forced air furnace, heat pump	15
Baseboard electric heat systems	20
Plumbing, waste piping	75
Hot-Water Boiler	20-30
Water Pump	7 – 10
Water Softener	20

Interior materials

Materials	Expected life in years
Carpeting	11
Interior Paint	7 – 10
Vinyl Floor	20 – 30
Wood Floor	100+
Bathroom fixtures, porcelain and cast iron	50
Fiberglass tub/showers	10-15
Kitchen cabinets (particle board and laminates)	15-20
Kitchen cabinets, solid wood and plywood construction	20-50
Counters, Tile	50+
Counters, Laminate	10-15
Counters, Wood	20+
Counters, Granite	20+

Exterior materials

Materials	Expected life in years
Aluminum Siding	20 – 50
Exterior Deck	15
Exterior Paint	7 – 10
Garage Door	20 – 50
Garage Door Opener	10
Roofing, Composition	15-30
Roofing, wood shingles	20-30
Roofing, Tile	50
Veneer (Brick, Stone)	100+
Vinyl Siding	50
Wood Siding	10 – 100

Note: The Information contained within this website is for informational purposes only. Kevin M. Leonard & The Home Inspection Company always recommends that a qualified expert be consulted in the area of concern.

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