You may be planning major improvements to your home or simply be curious about how long you can expect various things to last. It´s useful information, especially if you want to make sure you get your money´s worth.

Many house parts are fully functional for years; others give it up after just a few. A cast iron tub can work as well today as it did when it was first installed in 1888, though it may require refinishing. If maintained, brick and stonework can last centuries.

The following tables show average life expectancies for mechanical systems as well as interior and exterior materials. These have been taken from a wide range of sources including various professional building specialty websites and consumer resources, and are intended only as an estimate. Care and maintenance as well as quality and proper installation also play big roles in performance and longevity.

Manufacturer's Warranties

Most appliance manufacturer's offer warrnties on their products. The warranties may vary depending onthe product in question and from one manufacturer to the next.

Typically the better the quality of the brand &/or product, the longer & more comprehensive the warranty.

If the home you are purchasing has been equipped with new appliances request all of the pertinent documentation from the seller including receipts and the warranty card.

Fill out & mailin the warranty card so you appliances are reistered with the manufacturer and save all of the paperwork in a binder.

Include subsequent maintenance & repair documentation in the binder as well.

Interior materials

Exterior materials