Every component of your home has a lifespan. Common questions asked by homeowners include when to replace the flooring or how long to expect their siding to last. This information can help when budgeting for improvements or deciding between repairing and replacing when the time comes. We’re all familiar with the cliché: They just don’t build things like they used to. And while this may be true when it comes to brick siding or slate roofing, lifespans of other household components have increased in recent years. Here are the life expectancies of the most common household items (courtesy of NAHB):

 

Appliances: Among major appliances, gas ranges have a longer life expectancy than things like dishwashers and microwaves.

Appliance	Life Expectancy
Oil-burning Furnace	20 years
Heat Pump	16 years
Gas Range	15 years
Electric range / Refrigerator / Dryer	13 years
Electric / Gas Water Heater	10 years
Garbage disposal	10 years
Dishwasher / Microwave / Mini Fridge	9 years

 

Kitchen & Bath: When choosing your countertops, factor in the life expectancies of different materials.

Kitchen / Bath Item	Life Expectancy
Wood / Tile / Natural Stone Countertops	Lifetime
Toilets (parts will require maintenance)	50+ years
Stainless steel sink	30+ years
Bathroom faucet	20+ years
Cultured marble countertops	20 years
Kitchen faucet	15 years

 

Flooring: If you’re looking for longevity, wood floors are the way to go. Certain rooms in your home will be better suited for carpeting, but you can expect they’ll need replacing within a decade.

Flooring Material	Life Expectancy
Wood / Bamboo	Lifetime
Brick Pavers / Granite / Marble / Slate	100+ years
Linoleum	25 years
Carpet	8 – 10 years

 

Siding & Roofing: When choosing roofing and siding for your home, climate and maintenance level factor into the life expectancy of the material. However, brick siding and slate roofing are known to be dependable for decades.

Siding / Roofing Material	Life Expectancy
Brick Siding	100+ years
Aluminum Siding	80 years
Slate / Tile Roofing	50+ years
Wood Shingles	30 years
Wood Siding	10 – 100 years (depending on climate)

 

Are extended warranties warranted?

Extended warranties, also known as service contracts or service agreements, are sold for all types of household items from appliances to electronics. They cover service calls and repairs for a specified time beyond the manufacturer’s standard warranty.

You will have to consider whether the cost is worth it to you. For some, it brings a much-needed peace of mind when making such a large purchase. Also consider if the cost outweighs the value of the item. In some cases, it may be less expensive to replace a broken appliance than to pay for insurance or a warranty.

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