Your house may be standing for hundreds of years, but that doesn’t meant that the individual pieces that make up your home will last that long. Each part of your house—flooring, doors, hardware, brick, appliances, and more—has a unique lifespan.
So, what will stand the test of time? And what won’t? Learn more about the life expectancy of different areas in your home.
Appliances
Small appliances like your microwave, humidifier, or mini fridge have a shorter lifespan, lasting a decade on average. These are easy to replace and are relatively inexpensive. Larger appliances may last longer, however. Refrigerators and dryers can last between 10 and 13 years.
Masonry
If nothing else is still standing in your home in 50 years, the brick fireplace will be. Masonry is extremely durable and can last over 100 years. So your brick walls, veneers, and fireplaces will stick around for the next generation.
Countertops & Cabinets
Kitchen cabinets should last up to 50 years, so don’t just throw out cabinetry that is getting outdated. Try painting it for a fresh look instead. Countertops can also last a long time. Natural stone countertops can last over 100 years, although laminate countertops typically don’t last longer than 30 years.
Doors
The lifespan of doors changes depending on the type of material used. Wood, steel, and fiberglass doors last the longest. Additionally, closet doors are very sturdy and will most likely last the lifetime of your home. Screen doors and French doors, however, have a shorter lifespan and last around 40 years.
Fixtures
Sinks, toilets, and other fixtures made of acrylic last about 50 years, along with the average bathroom shower. Kitchen and bathroom faucets last between 15 and 20 years, while the garbage disposal can last around 12 years before it needs to be replaced.
These life expectancies can help you get a better idea of what things need to be replaced in your home and when, and they can also be useful when purchasing an existing home that may need repairs. Get more information on the life expectancy of your home.
October 4, 2017