If you’re in the market for a new roof, chances are you’re prepared to do your research. In our last pros and cons blog article, we talked about metal roofing as an option for a quality roofing material. Another great option for roofing is asphalt roofing shingles. Asphalt shingles are a popular choice of roofing material and are very cost-effective. However, like most things, there are pros and cons to consider.
Pros:
Affordable: Probably the biggest reason why asphalt roofing shingles are so popular is because they are the most affordable roofing option. If properly installed, asphalt shingles will protect your home for an average of 12 to 17 years.
Effective: While not as durable and long-lasting as other roofing materials (such as metal, slate, clay tiles, and cedar shakes) asphalt shingles provide adequate protection. With its moderate protection and a lower price point, most people find shingles are the most cost-effective option.
Variety of colors and styles: There are two types of asphalt shingles: organic and fiberglass. Asphalt coats both types to make them water proof. A fiberglass shingle’s interior is made with a thin mat of glass fiber. Organic shingles are made with a mat fabricated from some kind of wood product, usually waste paper. Both fiberglass and organic shingles come in different styles such as 3-tab, architectural, and premium shingles. The 3-tab shingles are the most basic and inexpensive option. Architectural shingles are slightly more expensive and are more aesthetically pleasing as they often have a 3D effect with varying tones and patterns, and some imitate the look of wood or slate shingles. Also, architectural shingles are more weatherproof as they are less prone to wind uplift than 3-tab shingles.
Easy Installation: While it does take skill to properly install asphalt shingles, they can usually be quickly installed in one to two days, depending on the size of the job and if the old shingles have to be removed first.
Cons:
The disadvantages of asphalt roofing shingles come down to the quality of the material and the dwindling protection it has in shifting climates.
- Extreme heat can cause shingles to crack or blister and the color to fade over time. Proper ventilation will help maximize the shingle life.
- Shingles can be affected by extreme temperature fluctuations. Expanding and contracting may cause brittle shingles to crack.
- Shingles can become damaged if installed at below freezing temperatures.
- Asphalt shingles are not environmentally friendly, although some areas do recycle shingles to use for asphalt pavement fillers and several other uses. Asphalt is a semi-solid form of petroleum so the manufacturing of shingles spends a lot of energy and produces greenhouse gas emissions. Other roofing materials, such as metal roofs are 100% recyclable and much more eco-friendly to produce.
To learn more or to request a quote from USA Roofing & Gutters, contact us today.
Thanks for letting me know that asphalt is the most affordable option for a roofing replacement. We have noticed a lot of leaks around our roof and I think that repairing them one by one isn’t a good choice. I’ll try to talk to a roofing contractor and see if replacing it completely would be the best choice.
Good idea! Shingle roofs are great.
I’m glad you mentioned that asphalt shingles come in different colors and styles. My sister and her husband want to get new roofing. I’ll let them know why asphalt shingle roofing would be a good choice!
You’re welcome! Be sure to check out our choose your shingles page for all colors and to see how it would look on your house!
It’s good to know that asphalt shingles can last as long as 17 years on average, as long as they’re properly installed. My cousin mentioned she wants to improve the curb appeal of her home by having new roofing installed within the next 3 or 4 months. The info in your article should help her determine if asphalt shingles would be the right choice!
Absolutely!
SO glad this can help her!
Each roof has its own pros and cons. In my experience with the shingle roof, the best part that I have found is its affordability and its cost effectiveness, because everyone can’t afford an expensive roof like (metal roof or slate roof). A shingle roof is light weight and easy to install. On the other hand, its biggest cons I have found were its less durability or longevity. It has less life span as compared to the other roof. But I think if the best sealant is applied on a metal roof its longevity can be increased. So, I prefer an EPDM liquid butyl rubber for this purpose as it gives a very durable and a long lasting solution. With the help of this sealant, leaks and damages can be repaired and the life expectancy of metal roof can be increased for further 18-20 years.
Great insight!
This is sad but my aunt recently noticed several missing shingles and signs of water damage on the roof of her villa. Concerned about potential leaks and further deterioration, she’s actively searching for a reputable roof replacement service to restore the integrity of her home’s roof and safeguard her property. I should tell her that despite the fact that installing asphalt shingles correctly requires talent, most jobs may be completed in one to two days, depending on their size and whether or not the old shingles need to be removed beforehand.
Thank you for your comment, we recommend finding a solution/contractor quick!