The Blog

Appliances -  The life expectancy of a typical appliance depends to a great extent on the use it receives. Moreover, appliances are often replaced long before they are worn out because changes in styling, technology and consumer preferences make newer products more desirable. Of the major appliances in a home, gas ranges have the longest life expectancy: 15 years. Dryers and refrigerators last about 13 years. Some of the appliances with the shortest lifespan are: compactors (6 years), dishwashers               (9 years) and microwave ovens (9 years).

Cabinetry and Storage -  Kitchens are becoming larger and more elaborate, and together with the family room, modern kitchens now form the “great room.”  Great rooms are not only a place to cook, but also a space where people gather to read, eat, do homework, surf the Internet and pay bills. Kitchen cabinets are expected to last up to 50 years, medicine cabinets for 20+ years, and garage/laundry cabinets for 100+ years. Closet shelves are expected to last for a lifetime.

Concrete and Masonry -  Masonry is one of the most durable components of a home. Chimneys, fireplaces, and brick veneers can last a lifetime, and brick walls have an average life expectancy of more than 100 years.

Countertops -  Natural stone counter tops, which are less expensive than a few years ago, are gaining in popularity and are expected to last a lifetime. Cultured marble counter tops have a life expectancy of about 20 years.

Decks - Because they are subject to a wide range of conditions in different climates, the life expectancy of wooden decks can vary significantly. Under ideal conditions, they have a life expectancy of about 20 years.