We heard through the grapevine that you're in the market for new shingles. When you think of a brand-new roof, what comes to mind? Don't worry if you're drawing a blank; you're definitely not the only one. Many people don't know where to begin when considering new roofing materials. There are so many options- from colors to shapes to patterns and styles, and we're getting dizzy just thinking about it. How do you know what's a good fit for your roof with such a variety of choices to pick from?
We're glad you're here because selecting shingle roofing is easier than you may picture. There are popular options, like asphalt shingles, that offer several benefits that attract homeowners. When you're carefully deciding on shingles that will fit your unique home, however, you also have to consider the good, the bad, and the ugly.
RoofCrafters has been repairing and installing asphalt shingles for thirty years, and we've learned a few things along the way about them. Pretty much everything has its own advantages and disadvantages, and this shingle variety is no exception. In this article, we'll go over the positive and not-so-great qualities of asphalt shingles so that you can choose the perfect roofing material for your home. Before we start, though, let's take a brief look at what asphalt shingles are.
What Are Asphalt Shingles?
As we mentioned above, asphalt shingles are one of the most widely chosen roof selections you see in today's homes. This type of shingle is generally comprised of three layers-
- Base mat
- Waterproof asphalt
- Ceramic granules
Asphalt shingles are manufactured in a few different designs- three-tab, architectural, and designer.
Three-tab shingles get their name from having one piece of material that has vertical slits in the bottom to create tabs that look like three different shingles. They are the most budget-friendly choice.
Architectural shingles, also called laminated shingles, don't have cutouts as 3-tab shingles do. Instead, they contain multiple layers of material to create more of a dimensional look.
Lastly, designer shingles are thicker and made to add more curb appeal to your roof. They're generally very luxurious and can make any roof pop. Designer shingles mimic the look of slate to give the illusion that they are more expensive. Now that you know just a little bit more about what asphalt shingles are, what are their benefits?!
The Benefits of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of the top choices for homeowners right now because of their multitude of pros, including less of an upfront cost compared to other long-lasting roof materials. Which asphalt shingle you choose ultimately decides how much you'll pay and what benefits you get! Overall, this roof type has a few standout benefits, which make it a notable contender against other roof types:
- Plenty of Aesthetic Options
- Budget-friendly
- Durable
- Economical
If you're on a budget but need a new roof to adorn your home, asphalt shingles are a fantastic choice. There are also plenty of style and color options to browse through, so if you have a specific look you're going for with your home, you can likely achieve it. All in all, asphalt shingles surely have their benefits- but what about drawbacks?
The Drawbacks of Asphalt Shingles
Though asphalt shingles aren't an unusual choice among homeowners, there are a few things that you should consider before picking them. This isn't to say they're bad; it's just better to know all the facts before picking a roofing material that could be on your home for many years to come.
Be Careful of Cracks
Because asphalt shingles are lightweight, they have a tendency to crack, especially when they receive extreme temperature fluctuations. Profound temperature changes cause the shingles to expand and contract, causing cracking.
Temperatures in the high 90s to the 100s can also influence cracking in asphalt shingles. Three-tab shingles are the most known for splitting because they're the cheapest variety of this type of roofing material.
Aesthetics: Most of Them Aren't Unique
If you want your home to truly stand out, there are better ways to go than three-tab shingles. However, this is a smart option amongst homeowners in suburban areas, which is part of the reason why homes in neighborhoods often look so similar to each other.
Most asphalt shingles don't offer the uniqueness that a roof made with wood shingles or metal would so keep this in mind. This is more of an issue for some than it is for others, but it's still worth noting.
Vulnerable to Wind
If you live in an area that regularly experiences extreme weather events, asphalt shingles may not be your best bet. Wind can cause shingles to detach, making your roof vulnerable to leaks. Water leakage leads to a plethora of other issues like mold and mildew, animals and insects, and even rot.
Areas with milder weather are typically more suitable for less costly asphalt shingles because the likelihood of damage is lower. Replacing shingles can be expensive, depending on what type you have.
They May Not Last Long
Most asphalt shingles are lighter, cheaper, and more prone to weather-related damage. This reduces the life of your shingles, meaning you may have to pay more in the long run, even if you've chosen an option that is less money up-front.
For example, three-tab shingles can last 18-22 years, while metal roofs can last around 40-70 years. That's a significant difference. 
Will Asphalt Shingles Be a Good Addition to My Home?
They definitely could be! Even though they have disadvantages, they're still a viable option for many homeowners. The specific type of home you own, your geographical area, and your taste help determine what roofing style you choose.
You've officially filled your brain with new asphalt shingle information! So, where do you go from here? If you have questions or are ready to get in touch with an expert, RoofCrafters is delighted to assist you. We strongly suggest checking out our resources regarding asphalt shingles, including "All About Asphalt Shingles," to make sure you know everything there is to know about this roofing material.
Keep in mind that we've been in the roofing industry for almost three decades, so we've built quite an arsenal of information about roofing systems. To further your knowledge on roofs, the most crucial part of every home, head over to our learning center.
Here's the thing- at RoofCrafters, we know more than anyone that making decisions regarding your roof can be a little on the stressful side- perhaps even a tad overwhelming. We understand that finding solutions to issues with your roof may be the last thing on your mind. Part of our mission is to let you know that there are dedicated professionals who will take the time to help you! If you want to get in touch with one of our friendly representatives, make your way over to our contact page. No matter what you're looking for, we'll ensure that we do all we can to help you.
