Like all things existing on this planet, the appliances, accessories, and components that comprise your home will deteriorate. As such, you'll have to replace them from time to time.
The question you might have is: how often should you replace these things? As you might expect, the answers vary. So, without further ado, here are some common home repair timelines for you to follow.
Refrigerator
Generally speaking, a refrigerator will last for around 15 years. However, it's not uncommon for them to last up to 20 years.
That being said, to help a refrigerator get this far, you will probably need to make some repairs. The most common problems that refrigerators face include clogged drains, failing ice makers, and dying control boards.
Dishwasher
When it comes to dishwashers, you can generally expect to get around 10 years. However, this time span will vary depending on the type of dishwasher you have and the amount of maintenance it's given. Generally speaking, regular cleanings will help to prolong your dishwasher's lifespan.
Oven Range
The lifespan of your oven range depends on the manner of its functionality. Whereas electric oven ranges last between 13 and 15 years, gas ranges last between 15 and 17 years. Of course, to get the most out of your range, you'll have to clean it on a regular basis.
Roof
The lifespans of roofs vary wildly depending on the type of material that they're made of. Generally speaking, the less you paid for your roof upfront, the less time it will thrive.
Asphalt shingles generally top out at around 20 years; architectural shingles will generally make it to around 25 years; cedar shakes will last around 40 years; metal panels will last around 50 years; and tile and slate are exceptional, capable of lasting for over 100 years.
Of course, if you want to get the most out of your roof, you will need to maintain it. This includes cleaning, debris removal, and, in the case of cedar shakes, applying sealer.
Siding
The duration of home siding depends almost entirely upon its material. Note, however, that poor weather conditions can alter a material's lifespan.
Vinyl and cedar siding generally lasts between 20 and 40 years. Fiber cement siding can last for over 100 years. In all cases, proper maintenance will be needed.
Windows
Whereas vinyl windows typically last for between 15 and 20 years, wood windows generally last for between 30 and 40 years. However, to get the most out of your windows, you must maintain them properly.
Foundation
Home foundations are strong, generally lasting between 80 and 100 years. Of course, this is provided that they were established correctly in the first place. If you build your house from scratch, you likely won't ever need to replace its foundation.
Clothes Washer
Clothes washers are, unfortunately, lacking in durability. At tops, they'll make it to around 12 years. At a minimum, they'll last around 8 years. That said, repairs can sometimes help to increase their lifespan.
The most common repairs needed for a clothes washer include valve replacement, gasket replacement, and switch repair. Note, if a repair costs more than $500, you're probably better off just getting a new washer altogether.
Clothes Dryer
Clothes dryers die at around the same time as clothes washers, generally around 10 years. To keep them going for as long as possible, there are a few things you can do.
One option is to hang dry your clothes from time to time, as it will take some wear and tear off of your dryer. Another option is to clean the dryer vent regularly, as doing so will improve dryer efficiency.
HVAC System
The components of an HVAC system generally last between 12 and 25 years. Whereas air conditioners last for between 12 and 15 years, furnaces generally last for between 20 and 25 years.
Of course, their lifespans are entirely dependent on upkeep. If you clean and maintain your systems regularly, they'll live to a ripe old age. If you never maintain them, they could die before their time.
Toilet
Toilets are unique in that they don't have a set lifespan. In some cases, they'll last for 10 years. In other cases, they'll last for 50.
To determine whether your toilet has reached its expiration date, you're advised to look for specific signs. Is it clogging on a regular basis?; Is it severely cracked?; Does it require repair frequently? If so, it's probably time to opt for a new model.
Flooring
The lifespan of flooring is heavily dependent on what it's made of. However, use and traffic can affect its lifespan as well.
Hardwood, stone, concrete, and ceramic flooring can last for over 100 years; Vinyl flooring can last for up to 50 years; Carpet can last for up to 20 years. To assess whether your flooring has reached its end, you should look out for cracks, tears, and aesthetic deterioration.
Door
The lifespan of a door is heavily dependent on its use. Front doors are generally expected to last for the lifespans of their corresponding homes. This is true regardless of their material.
Screen doors will begin to give out between 20 and 40 years. French doors, on the other hand, will require door replacement after 30 to 50 years of use.
Cabinetry
Generally speaking, the more use a cabinet sees, the sooner it will meet its demise. As such, kitchen cabinets generally die out before laundry cabinets.
In most cases, kitchen cabinetry will last around 50 years. Medicine cabinets, on the other hand, will top out at around 20 years.
It's important to note, however, that proper maintenance can lead to a much longer lifespan, particularly in terms of preserving a cabinet's aesthetic. Touch it up regularly and your cabinet will last for the long haul.
Looking for More Home Repair Information?
And there they are, a collection of the most important home repair timelines. While these timelines might vary slightly on a case-by-case basis, they are typically good to follow.
Looking for more home repair information? You can find it right here. Browse our selection of home-related articles now!
