How long does mulch last?

You can expect mulch to last 1 to 4 years, with an average of 2 years. Because the combination of moisture and heat accelerate decomposition, 2 years is about the max in Florida, but it may last up to 4 years in cooler, dryer areas.

    The primary factor that affects how long the mulch lasts is size of the chunks. Large chips last longer than small chips, and shredded mulch has the shortest lifespan. Also, dyed mulch fades quicker and tends to be shorter lasting when it has direct and extended exposure to sunlight. See our blog post Does wood chip mulch in the yard attract termites? for facts about this concern for many homeowners.

    Here’s a bar graph that compares the life expectancy of mulch to other site amenities.
    And go to What is the average lifespan of the parts of a house? for rating of other house components.  

Here’s links to a collection of our other blog posts about a home’s SITE:

• Why do so many more sinkholes open up after a hurricane?

• Should I seal the pavers at my patio and driveway or not? 

• What is a flag lot?

• How much is the ground required to slope away from a house? 

• What is a chimney sinkhole?

  • How do I recognize structural problems in a retaining wall?  

• What are the warning signs of a sinkhole? 

• What causes sinkholes?

  • How can homebuyers protect themselves against buying a house over a sinkhole?  

• What should I do about a tree with roots running under my house?

• Will the electric company trim branches rubbing against the overhead service lines to my house?

• How can trees damage a house? 

•  What causes cracks in a driveway?

• What is my chance of buying a Florida home over a sinkhole? 

• Which trees are most likely to fall over on your house in a hurricane?

     Visit our SITE page for other related blog posts on this subject, or go to the INDEX for a complete listing of all our articles. 

NOTE: These life expectancies are based on data provided by InterNACHI, NAHB, FannieMae, and our own professional experience. Because of the numerous variables that can affect a lifespan, they should be used as rough guidelines only, and not relied upon as a warranty or guarantee of future performance.