How Long Will Your Home Last?
AnnieMac Education Center
A well-constructed home can last centuries, but the components inside the home may have a shorter lifespan and need repair or replacement to last longer.
Older homes normally require upgrades such as a new roof, updated heating and air conditioning systems, remodeled kitchens and bathrooms, and upgraded plumbing and electrical systems. The structure of the home can stay basically unchanged over time if properly taken care of. If you live in a place with earthquakes and hurricanes, homeowners may have to reinforce the structure to help withstand these circumstances.
If you plan on buying an older home, check the structure of the home to ensure that it is sound and safe. Make sure that all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are functioning properly and that the plumbing and electrical systems are in good shape. It is also important to check the foundation and framing of the home for any issues or potential problems.
Approximate lifespan of exterior home features:
- Roof – 20 to 50 years
- Brick – 100 or more years
- Veneer – lifetime of the home
- Stucco – 50 to 100 years
- Wood deck – 10 to 30 years
- Doors – 20 years to a lifetime
- Poured foundation – lifetime
- Paints – 15 years
- Shutters – 10 to 20 years
- Gutters – 20 to 100 years
- Windows – 10 to 30 years
Approximate lifespan of appliances:
- Dishwasher – 9 years
- Washer – 10 years
- Dryers – 13 years
- Refrigerator – 9 to 13 years
- Water heater – 10 to 11 years
- Furnace – 15 to 20 years
- Window air conditioner – 5 to 7 years
Approximate lifespan of household systems::
- Security – 5 to 10 years
- Smoke detectors – 10 to 15 years
- Thermostat – 35 years
- Air ducting – 10 years
- Electrical service panel – 60 years
- Propane generator – 12 years
Approximate lifespan of plumbing:
- Faucets – 10 to 20 years
- Toilets – lifetime
- Whirlpool tubs – 20 to 50 years
- Sinks – 5 to 100 years
- Showerheads – 100 years
- Well pumps – 15 years
In Conclusion
No matter the age of the home you are currently living in or plan on buying, it is important to stick to a maintenance plan to help you get the most from your property. Change air filters, clean your gutters, schedule an annual HVAC check-up, and trim your trees to ensure that your home lasts as long as possible.