Walls and ceilings last the full lifespan of the home.

 

 

 

Natural stone countertops, which are less expensive than they were just a few years ago, are becoming more popular, and one can expect them to last a lifetime. Cultured marble countertops have a shorter life expectancy, however.

 

 

 

Decks are exposed to a wide range of conditions in different climates, from wind and hail in some areas, to relatively consistent, dry weather in others. See FASTENERS & STEEL section for fasteners.

 

 

 

Exterior fiberglass, steel and wood doors will last as long as the house, while vinyl and screen doors have a shorter life expectancy. The gaskets/weatherstripping of exterior doors may have to be replaced every 5 to 8 years.

 

ELECTRICAL	YEARS
Accessories	10+
Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs)	30
Bare Copper	100+
Bulbs (compact fluorescent)	8,000 to 10,000+ hours
Bulbs (halogen)	4,000 to 8,000+ hours
Bulbs (incandescent)	1,000 to 2,000+ hours
Bulbs (LED)	30,000 to 50,000+ hours
Copper-Clad Aluminum	100+
Copper-Plated	100+
Fixtures	40
Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)	up to 30
Lighting Controls	30+
Residential Propane Backup Generators	12
Service Panel	60
Solar Panels	20 to 30
Solar System Batteries	3 to 12
Wind Turbine Generators	20

FASTENERS, CONNECTORS & STEEL	YEARS
Adjustable Steel Columns	50+
Fasteners (bright)	25 to 60
Fasteners (copper)	65 to 80+
Fasteners (galvanized)	10+
Fasteners (electro-galvanized)	15 to 45
Fasteners (hot-dipped galvanized)	35 to 60
Fasteners (stainless)	65 to 100+
Steel Beams	200+
Steel Columns	100+
Steel Plates	100+

Flooring life is dependent on maintenance and the amount of foot traffic the floor endures.

 

 

 

Concrete and poured-block footings and foundations will last a lifetime, assuming they were properly built.  Waterproofing with bituminous coating lasts 10 years, but if it cracks, it is immediately damaged.

 

 

 

Framing and structural systems have extended longevities; poured-concrete systems, timber frame houses and structural insulated panels will all last a lifetime. 

 

 

 

The quality and frequency of use will affect the longevity of garage doors and openers.

 

* Batteries should be changed at least annually.

 

 

Thermostats may last 35 years but they are usually replaced before they fail due to technological improvements.

 

 

  

Masonry is one of the most enduring household components. Fireplaces, chimneys and brick veneers can last the lifetime of a home.

 

 

 

Custom millwork and stair parts will last a lifetime and are typically only upgraded for aesthetic reasons.

 

 

 

 

PLUMBING, FIXTURES & FAUCETS	YEARS
ABS and PVC Waste Pipe	50 to 80
Accessible/ADA Handles	100+
Acrylic Kitchen Sink	50
Cast-Iron Bathtub	100
Cast-Iron Waste Pipe (above ground)	60
Cast-Iron Waste Pipe (below ground)	50 to 60
Concrete Waste Pipe	100+
Copper Water Lines	70
Enameled Steel Kitchen Sink	5 to 10+
Faucets and Spray Hose	15 to 20
Fiberglass Bathtub and Shower	20
Gas Lines (black steel)	75
Gas Lines (flex)	30
Hose Bibs	20 to 30
Instant (on-demand) Water Heater	10
PEX	40
Plastic Water Lines	75
Saunas/Steam Room	15 to 20
Sewer Grinder Pump	10
Shower Enclosure/Module	50
Shower Doors	20
Showerheads	100+ (if not clogged by mineral/other deposits)
Soapstone Kitchen Sink	100+
Sump Pump	7
Toilet Tank Components	5
Toilets, Bidets and Urinals	100+
Vent Fan (ceiling)	5 to 10
Vessel Sink (stone, glass, porcelain, copper)	5 to 20+
Water Heater (conventional)	6 to 12
Water Line (copper)	50
Water Line (plastic)	50
Well Pump	15
Water Softener	20
Whirlpool Tub	20 to 50

The life of a roof depends on local weather conditions, building and design, material quality, and adequate maintenance.  Hot climates drastically reduce asphalt shingle life.  Roofs in areas that experience severe weather, such as hail, tornadoes and/or hurricanes may also experience a shorter-than-normal lifespan overall or may incur isolated damage that requires repair in order to ensure the service life of the surrounding roofing materials.

 

 

 

Outside siding materials typically last a lifetime.  Some exterior components may require protection through appropriate paints or sealants, as well as regular maintenance.  Also, while well-maintained and undamaged flashing can last a long time, it is their connections that tend to fail, so seasonal inspection and maintenance are strongly recommended.

 

 

 

Site and landscaping elements have life expectancies that vary dramatically. 

 

SWIMMING POOLS	YEARS
Concrete Shell	25+
Cover	7
Diving Board	10
Filter and Pump	10
Interior Finish	10 to 35
Vinyl Liner	10
Pool Water Heater	8
Waterline Tile	15+

 

 

Aluminum windows are expected to last between 15 and 20 years, while wooden windows should last nearly 30 years.