Factors Influencing the Longevity of Residential Structures

For potential home buyers, understanding the factors that can influence a building’s lifespan is crucial. This knowledge can guide your decision-making process, helping you determine if a home purchase is a wise investment and what to look out for during the home-building and buying process, potentially saving you from costly repairs in the future. 

What is the lifespan of a residential building?

The average lifespan of a residential building can range from 50 to 100 years. Many factors determine a building’s longevity and overall well-being. 

Primary factors contributing to the lifespan of a building include but are not limited to: 

• Geographic location (Extreme temperatures and soil quality can impact the structure of a home).
• Building materials (higher quality materials often last longer).
• If it’s regularly maintained.
• Wear and tear.
• Etc. 

What is the average life expectancy of appliances?

The average life span of many common household appliances—such as refrigerators, stoves, microwaves, and dishwashers — ranges from around 8 to 15 years. 

Generally speaking, appliances won’t last forever, but you can improve their longevity by emptying filters regularly, leaving room for proper ventilation, cleaning (read the instruction manual for proper cleaning techniques), and using the appliance only for what it’s intended. 

What types of buildings last the longest?

Quality building material plays a significant role in how long a home or any other building may last. However, certain types of materials will help a structure to be long-lasting. These materials include: 

• Steel 
• Iron
• Brick
• Stone

If you’re purchasing a new home or having one built, it’s essential to research the building materials. This ensures the home not only appears beautiful on the outside but is also a quality structure on the inside.