Asphalt shingles are a popular choice for residential roofs due to their affordability and relatively simple installation process. Asphalt shingles come in a variety of colors, styles, and textures, making it easy to find a look that suits your home.
While there are many advantages to using asphalt shingles on your roof, there are some potential drawbacks that should be considered before installation. In this blog, we will explore the pros and cons of using asphalt shingles for residential roofs so you can make an informed decision.
What are Asphalt Shingles?
Asphalt shingles are the most commonly used roofing material in North America. They are composed of a fiberglass mat and are coated with asphalt and ceramic granules. These granules protect the shingle from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays and enhance its aesthetic appeal.
They come in various colors to match the exterior of your home. Asphalt shingles are available in three-tab and architectural styles. Three-tab shingles have a flat appearance, while architectural shingles have a multi-dimensional texture and are thicker.
They are easy to install and are relatively low maintenance. They have a lifespan of up to 30 years and are an affordable option for homeowners. Overall, asphalt shingles are a reliable and durable choice for roofing.
Pros of Asphalt Shingles
Long Lasting Material
Asphalt shingles are a popular roofing material that has been used for decades due to their durability and affordability. Made from a combination of asphalt and fiberglass, these shingles are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and remain intact for many years.
One of the benefits of using asphalt shingles for roofing is their long-lasting quality. They last for 20-30 years or more, depending on the quality of materials used and the installation process. In addition, asphalt shingles require minimal maintenance and can be easily replaced when they do wear out.
Furthermore, they come in a variety of colors and styles to suit different architectural designs. Overall, asphalt shingles provide homeowners with a reliable and long-lasting roofing solution that offers great value for the money.
Cost Efficient
When it comes to cost-efficiency, asphalt shingles are a top choice for homeowners and contractors alike. Not only are they one of the most affordable roofing materials on the market, but they also have a long lifespan and require minimal maintenance.
This means that homeowners can save money on both installation and upkeep costs, while still having a reliable and durable roofing system. Additionally, asphalt shingles come in a variety of styles and colors, giving homeowners plenty of options to choose from when it comes to enhancing their home’s curb appeal.
It’s no wonder why asphalt shingles remain a popular choice for those looking for a high-quality and cost-efficient roofing solution.
Variety of Color Options
Asphalt shingles have long been a popular roofing material due in part to the range of color options available. Not only do they come in classic shades such as black, gray, and brown, but homeowners can choose from a variety of vibrant hues as well.
This extensive range of colors provides advantages to both contractors and homeowners alike. For contractors, a wider selection of colors offers the opportunity for greater creativity and customization when designing a home’s exterior.
Homeowners can select a color that complements their home’s existing color palette or choose a bold color to make a statement. With so many options, asphalt shingles offer the versatility and flexibility to bring any design vision to life.
Low Maintenance
Asphalt shingles are an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a low maintenance roofing option. These durable materials are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, and they can remain intact for up to 20 years.
Unlike other roofing materials, asphalt shingles require little to no maintenance, making them a great choice for busy homeowners. They are resistant to mold and algae growth, which can reduce the need for frequent cleanings or treatments. Additionally, asphalt shingles are easy to repair and replace, meaning you won’t have to spend a lot of time and money on maintenance or repairs.
Plus, their versatility allows you to enhance the curb appeal of your home with a wide range of designs and color choices. Overall, with low maintenance requirements and lasting durability, asphalt shingles are a smart investment for any homeowner.
Fire Resistant
Asphalt shingles are a popular choice for roofing materials due to their durability, affordability, and easy installation. However, did you know that they can also be fire-resistant? In fact, asphalt shingles with a Class A fire rating have been tested to withstand flames, prevent the spread of fire, and protect your home from potential disasters.
This added benefit not only increases the safety of your property, but it may also positively impact your insurance rates. When seeking a roofing material that performs well in a variety of conditions, consider the added value of fire resistance with asphalt shingles.
Cons of Asphalt Shingles
Susceptible to Wind Damage
Homeowners looking for the best roofing options should be aware of the cons of asphalt shingles. While they are a popular choice due to their affordability and ease of installation, they are also quite susceptible to wind damage.
Strong winds can easily lift up or blow off the shingles, leaving vulnerable areas exposed to the elements. This can lead to leaks, water damage, and even structural problems if left unchecked.
Therefore, it’s important for homeowners to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits before choosing asphalt shingles as their roofing material. Consulting with a professional roofing contractor can help ensure that the right product is chosen to protect the home and withstand the elements.
Require Periodic Maintenance
Asphalt shingles are a popular roofing choice due to their affordability and durability. However, like all roofing materials, they require periodic maintenance to keep them in good condition. One con of asphalt shingles is that they are susceptible to damage from the elements over time, which can cause leaks and other problems.
Regular inspections and repairs can prevent these issues from becoming more severe. It is recommended to hire a professional roofing contractor to perform routine maintenance on your asphalt shingles to ensure their longevity and protect your home from potential damage.
Don’t let neglect lead to costly repairs down the road. Schedule routine maintenance for your asphalt shingles today.
Can Become Brittle with Age
Asphalt shingles are one of the most commonly used roofing materials in the United States. While they have many benefits, such as affordability and easy installation, they can become brittle with age, which is a significant con.
When shingles become brittle, they are more prone to breakage and can crack or break off in windy conditions. Brittleness can also make the shingles less effective at protecting your structure from the elements, leading to leaks and water damage.
Therefore, it is essential to keep an eye on the condition of your shingles and consider replacing them if they show signs of brittleness or wear.
Prone to Algae Growth in Wet Climates
Asphalt shingles are a popular roofing material due to their affordability and durability. However, in wet climates, they are prone to algae growth, which can be a significant downside. Algae growth not only affects the appearance of the roof but can also lead to decay and damage over time.
It is essential to stay on top of regular roof maintenance in wet climates, including cleaning and treating the shingles to prevent algae growth. Alternative roofing materials, such as metal or concrete tiles, may be a better option for those living in consistently moist environments.
It’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons carefully when considering which roofing option is right for your home.
In Conclusion
Overall, asphalt shingles are a great choice for roofing due to their affordability, durability, and long-lasting quality. They offer homeowners a low maintenance option that will last up to 30 years with minimal upkeep and come in a variety of colors and styles. However, it’s important to consider the cons of using asphalt shingles, such as susceptibility to wind damage and algae growth in wet climates.
