Life Span. Asphalt shingles generally last 15 to 30 years, according to U.S. Inspect. Their life span depends on several factors, including shingle weight, roof slope (to shed water), sun exposure, shingle color (light colors absorb less heat and last longer) and climate.How shingles are stacked in storage also matters.ife Span. Asphalt shingles generally last 15 to 30 years, according to U.S. Inspect. Their life span depends on several factors, including shingle weight, roof slope (to shed water), sun exposure, shingle color (light colors absorb less heat and last longer) and climate.