How Long Does a Roof Last in Washington’s Climate?

If you’ve lived in Tacoma for more than a couple of rainy seasons, you already know — our weather is no joke. The rain, the damp air, the moss that seems to show up overnight — it all adds up. Roofs here don’t have it easy. You might look up one day and think, “Didn’t that roof look newer a few years ago?” That’s just Washington weather doing its thing.

At Robb’s Roofing, we hear this question all the time: “How long should my roof last here?” The short answer is — not as long as it would in a drier state. The long answer? It depends on what kind of roof you have and how well it’s been cared for. With a little attention, you can stretch those years out a lot further than most people realize.

What You Can Expect in Tacoma

Different roofs handle the Pacific Northwest in different ways:

• Asphalt shingles: Usually give you 15–20 years here, maybe less if moss builds up or water sits too long.
• Metal roofs: These can last decades — 40 to 70 years is realistic if you keep them clean and rust-free.
• Tile roofs: The tiles themselves last forever, but the felt or underlayment underneath might need replacing around the 25-year mark.
• Flat or foam roofs: With good coating and drainage, expect about 20–25 years.

Quick Guide

Quick answer: Asphalt shingles last 15–20 years in Washington’s damp climate.

Try this: Schedule roof inspections every 1–2 years and treat moss early.

Stop signs: Curling shingles, soft decking, or lots of grit washing into the gutters.

Typical cost: Roof replacement usually runs $9,000–$18,000 depending on size and material.

Why Roofs Wear Out Faster Here

Moss loves Tacoma’s weather. Once it grabs hold, it holds moisture like a sponge, eating away at shingles and wood underneath. Then you’ve got wind and debris. Pine needles, leaves, and twigs pile up in valleys and gutters, keeping parts of your roof wet long after the storm passes. Over time, that constant moisture softens the decking and lets water work its way in. If you live closer to the coast, salty air joins the party and starts rusting nails and flashing.

How to Help Your Roof Last Longer

There’s no magic trick — just steady upkeep. The homeowners who get the most years out of their roofs are the ones who pay attention to the little things.

• Clean the roof and gutters often. Don’t let water sit.
• Keep moss off. Treat it before it takes root.
• Trim trees back. More sunlight means less moisture.
• Get inspections every year or two. Small repairs early on save thousands later.

It’s not glamorous work, but it keeps your roof solid through all the gray days Tacoma can throw at it.

Final Thoughts

A roof here works harder than just about anywhere else in the country. It’s battling moisture almost year-round, and sooner or later, it’ll show it. If you’re not sure how much life your roof has left, call Robb’s Roofing at (253) 820-2163.

Because in Tacoma, a good roof isn’t just part of your house. It’s what keeps you dry, warm, and comfortable when the rain comes down for weeks straight.